What is Turn-Mill Composite Lathe Machining?

Most Turn-Mill composite machining is completed on a Turn-Mill center. A general Turn-Mill center simply replaces the common turret with a power turret and adds C-axis function to the main shaft. Due to turret structure and size limits, the power head has low power and speed, and cannot install large tools. This type of center is mainly for turning, with milling and drilling as auxiliary functions. The price usually exceeds 800,000 RMB, which is unaffordable for many users. Economical Turn-Mill machines mostly use an XZC axis, adding a rotating C-axis to the chuck to achieve basic milling functions.

Compared with conventional CNC machining, composite machining has the following outstanding advantages:

Shorten the product manufacturing chain and improve efficiency. It can complete all or most processes in one setup, significantly reducing production auxiliary time caused by setup changes and reducing tool/fixture manufacturing cycles and waiting time.

Reduce clamping frequency and improve accuracy. Fewer setups avoid error accumulation from datum transformation. Currently, most equipment has in-line inspection to realize key data detection and precision control during manufacturing.

Reduce floor space and production costs. Although the price per unit is higher, the overall investment, floor space, and maintenance costs are effectively reduced due to the shortened process chain and fewer required machines and fixtures.