A machine tool is a machine used to machine, shape, cut, drill or drill metal or other materials. Machine tools are common tools in industrial manufacturing processes and are often preferred in applications that require mass production, precision machining and high productivity.
Machine tools can have various types depending on different machining methods. For example, lathes shape a rotary workpiece using a rotary cutting tool, while milling machines process by moving a rotary cutter to a stationary workpiece. Drilling machines, on the other hand, use a rotary cutter to drill holes in a stationary workpiece.
While traditional machine tools work with mechanical or hydraulic systems that the operator directly controls, machine tools equipped with a more advanced technology, Computer Numerical Control (CNC), are also widely used today. CNC machine tools can process automatically based on computer programs, providing higher precision, repeatability and productivity.
The usage areas of machine tools are quite wide. They are widely used in many industries, from the automotive industry to aerospace, from metalworking workshops to electronic device manufacturing. They can perform many different operations such as shaping, drilling, cutting, grinding and smoothing of workpieces.
Machine tools are important tools that meet the productivity, precision and repeatability requirements in industrial production processes. Along with the developing technology, new generation machine tools are emerging that offer faster, more precise and more automatic machining possibilities, which provides more advanced production possibilities in the industry.
What are Machine Tool core components?
Main Body: It is the basic skeleton structure of the machine tool and supports the other components. It generally has a solid and durable structure.
- Spindle: The spindle is a spindle system that holds the rotary cutting tool or drill bits and transmits the rotational motion. The spindle must provide high-speed rotational motion and ensure stable operation of the cutting tool.
- Cutting Tool: A cutting tool is a tool used to shape, cut or drill the workpiece. Cutting tools can be of various types, such as turning bits, milling bits, drill bits, and varies depending on the machining method.
- Worktable: The worktable is a platform where the workpiece is held and can be fixed or movable during processing. The worktable must ensure that the workpiece is held in the correct position.
- Work Fingers (Workholding): These are the apparatuses that allow the workpiece to be firmly attached to the work table. Various work finger methods can be used, such as vices, clamps, screws, vacuum systems.
- Motion Systems: There are systems that provide motion in machine tools. These systems control the rotation of the spindle, the advance of cutting tools, or the movement of the worktable. Motion systems may include gear mechanisms, belt or gear drive systems, hydraulic or pneumatic systems.
- Control System: It is the system that controls the operation of the machine tools. While the operator provides direct control in traditional machine tools, computer-based control systems are used in CNC machine tools. The control system sets the machining parameters, directs the movement of the cutting tool, and automatically performs the machining process.
- Cooling and Lubrication Systems: These are the systems used for controlling the temperature and lubricating the surfaces in machine tools. Cooling systems dissipate the heat generated during cutting and increase the performance of the cutting tool, while lubrication systems reduce friction and prevent wear.
These key components come together to enable machine tools to function and operate correctly.
Maintenance and Cleaning of Machine Tools
Regular cleaning and maintenance operations ensure the healthy operation and stable performance of machine tools. For this, it is important to clean the machine tools after each use or at a certain time interval.
The accumulation of chips and dust can damage the moving parts of the machine tools and affect its precision. Therefore, it is necessary to clean the workpieces, cutting tools, work table and other components using suitable cleaning tools and cleaning agents.
In addition, lubrication and oil change operations of machine tools should be done as Proper lubrication of moving parts reduces friction and prevents wear. Checking the lubrication points specified by the manufacturer and adding or changing oil when necessary increases the performance of the machine tools and extends their life.
It is important to plan maintenance and cleaning routines. A maintenance program should be established taking into account the frequency of use of the machine tools, the machining conditions, and the manufacturer's recommendations. This program should include regular maintenance and cleaning operations at certain intervals. In addition, it is of great importance that the personnel performing the maintenance of the machine tools are trained and work in accordance with the safety rules.
Maintenance of machine tools is important not only to prevent malfunctions and increase performance, but also for occupational safety. Regular maintenance and cleaning help eliminate potential hazards and ensure the safety of the work environment. Therefore, the users of the machine tools should be trained in maintenance and cleaning and it should be ensured that the safety precautions are strictly observed.
Safety Precautions in Machine Tools
It is extremely important to use machine crews and to take security measures for possible risks. Here are some examples of safety precautions in machine tools:
- Training: Personnel using machine teams must have the necessary training. This training should include correct and safe operating, handling procedures, emergency precautions and monitoring of personal protective equipment of the machine tool.
- Personal Protective Equipment: It is important for children to use their personal protective equipment (glasses, earplugs, gloves, work clothes, etc.) correctly in the use of machine tools. This protection protects against potential accidents and helps lines of serious injury.
- Checking the Machine Tool: Machine tools should be checked regularly and it should be ensured that the samples are placed correctly. In case of any damage or malfunction, the operator should be notified and necessary repairs or maintenance should be carried out.
- Arrangement of Work Area: Areas with machine tools, tidy and clean surveillance. To reduce the risk of slipperiness on the floor, non-slip surfaces should be used and the use of sawdust, oil or other uses should be avoided. In addition, adequate lighting should be provided in the work area and the effect of easy access to emergency exits.
- Emergency measurements: It is important to teach machine tools to properly handle and operate them for possible emergencies. Operator operations that require observations such as fire, power outage, last team generation are critical to minimize the occurrence of accidents.
- Occupational Safety Signs: The use of work safety signs on the machine crews, which warns users and indicates potential dangers. These signs make them aware of the risks and create a safe working environment.
Machine Tools Prices
Prices of machine tools are determined by many factors. Here are some factors that indicate the price of machine tools:
- Machine Type: Machine tools have various types. There are different types of machine tools such as CNC lathes, milling machines, laser cutting machines, pressing machines. The price of each machine type may be different.
- Processing Capacity: It focuses on the processing capacity of machine crews, that is, on what types of materials they can process and what processes they can process. Machine tools with large machining holders can often be priced higher.
- Brand and Quality: Machine tools can be purchased from different brands and in different quality levels. Machines with more protection brands and higher quality usually come with higher costs.
- Features and Advanced Technology: Some machine tools may be limited to high-end features and automation systems. It can make such features, processing capabilities and processing systems more efficient, but the price can also be achieved.
- Used or New: Purchasing machine tools as new or used can also have an impact on price. Used machine tools can often be more affordable, but new machine tools usually offer a longer warranty and more up-to-date technology.
- Additional Accessories and Spare Parts: Additional accessories and spare parts may be included in the price of machine kits. Additional result, cost expenses such as special cutting tools, apparatus or software results.
Prices for machine tools often vary over a wide range. A small machine tool can cost thousands of dollars, while a large and complex industrial machine tool can cost millions of dollars. Setting prices depends on the seller, growth, and marketing settings.