Vertical turning centers

A vertical turning center is a hybrid of the turning center and the vertical lathe. Shorter components not requiring sub-spindle, tail stock or bottom turret can benefit from a vertical construction lathe rather than a horizontal one, to keep the machine footprint small.

Vertical turning center machine configuration

There are two main categories of vertical turning centers:

• Pick-up lathe: For high-volume components up to 300 mm in diameter (11.81 inch). The chuck is used for handling component, to pick them up and place them back on the transfer belt for automatic production. This configuration enables very good machine utilization in a compact space, with all component handling built into the machine.
• Large vertical turning center: For larger components, 300-800 mm (11.81-31.50 inch), fixturing is simpler with the component laying flat. This also allows for a pallet system that allows components to be fixtured and unloaded during machining

There are several machine options to consider that affect metal-cutting efficiency and machine utilization. The type of components being produced determines the requirements. Careful consideration ensures an optimal and secure machining process.

Pallet

By using a pallet, the component can be set up in the fixture while the machine is still producing. This provides excellent machine utilization compared to setting up directly in the machine.

Automatic tool change (ATC)

For large components, utilizing every turret position becomes more problematic due to clearance issues with boring bars. This is why the vertical ram with ATC is used for component diameters over 1 m (39.37 inch).

For larger vertical turning centers, an automatic tool change option with disc magazine is available that allows long boring bars to be stored. More tooling positions become available, flexibility increases and the possibility for unmanned production opens up.

Turret interface

View Turning centers for information about turret interfaces.

Driven tool

View Turning centers for information about driven tools.

Y-axis/half turret

View Turning centers for information about Y-axis and half turrets.

Tool holder offset function

View Turning centers for information about the tool holder offset function.

How to solve limited gauge length

View Turning centers for information about how to solve limited gauge length.

High-pressure pump

Most machines offer a high-pressure coolant capability around 70 bar (1015 psi).

Read more about coolant aspects

Quick change in vertical turning centers

Vertical turning centers have fast tool indexing but typically have lower utilization than machining centers due to the tool change and set-up time. Use quick change holders to reduce the measuring, set-up and tool change time and instead allow for extra machining time.

Read more about quick change solutions