Precision-turned parts are workpieces shaped by turning machines. The machine turns the workpiece to the shape that is needed, while a cutting tool removes excess material. This process produces highly resistant components with accuracy, ensuring precision and reliability in every piece.
Top 4 Benefits of Precision-Turned Parts
Many industries rely on precision-turned parts, meaning they have a big market. According to analysts, the revenue of the precision-turned-parts market is likely to exceed $113.9 billion this year. Here are the main reasons why these parts are so beneficial in different industries.
Reliability
Modern precision-turning machines are computerized, ensuring consistency regarding shape, size, and resistance. Computerized precision-turning machines also produce much faster than traditional ones, scaling up productivity without sacrificing quality.
Cost-Effectiveness
Precision turned part manufacturers can reduce the cost of their production with the help of computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Advanced CNC machines can cut complex shapes quickly and precisely, reducing production time. This also means a faster turnaround time for clients, which is a competitive advantage in markets that demand high volumes of precision-turned parts within short timeframes.
Durability
These components are designed to endure high temperatures, stress, and pressure. That’s why industries that need long-lasting and reliable parts often resort to precision manufacturing items.
Versatility
Precision-turning machines can work with various materials, from plastic to titanium. That’s why these parts are found across several industries, like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical.
How Does It Work?
Industrial precision-turning manufacturing involves advanced machinery. It all starts with the CNC machine, which cuts materials into a programmed design. The design is created either using computer-aided design programs (CAD) or Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). CNC machinery is constantly in high demand globally, with CNC manufacturers around the world amassing revenue above USD 67 billion in 2023.
It’s essential to choose the right tool for cutting each material. The machining process involves a dry run, which means double-checking tool paths and programming. Once a piece is finished, it must undergo quality controls to check its tolerances and dimensions. Finally, surfaces and edges are polished and reinforced with special treatments. Anodized, plated and painted parts are more resistant to corrosion.
CNC turning machines are vital for the entire process. There are three main types: lathe machines, Swiss-type lathes, and vertical turning lathes (VTLs). Lathes create cylindrical parts and Swiss-type lathes produce small and complex forms. VTLs allow manufacturers to rotate pieces vertically, which means they can deal with larger diameters.
Vital for Every Industry
CNC lathe tools and precision-turned components are necessary for many reasons. The aerospatial industry requires pieces with extra-tight tolerances and materials like Inconel or titanium are used to create durable and lightweight components.
The medical industry needs prosthetic joints, surgery tools, and dental implants crafted to perfection. CNC lathe tools provide the electronic industry with heat sinks, housings, and connectors. Even household appliances, like refrigerators, kitchen equipment, and washing machines, depend on precision-turned parts.
