CNC Milling and Turning in a Single Machine

Lorro Precision: CNC Milling and Turning in a Single Machine

Integrating CNC milling and turning in a single machine is possible. Lorro Precision, specialists in subcontract precision machining in London, has reduced its cycle times and combined two processes into one solution by acquiring a CMZ lathe. The 12,000 rpm milling capabilities of the TA series were a key factor in the decision.

LORRO PREISION: CLIENT PROFILE

NAME: Lorro Precision

LOCATION: London, United Kingdom

ACTIVITY: Precision machining subcontracting

SECTORS: General engineering and manufacture of high-precision components

CMZ MACHINES:

  • TA-25-YS-640

Lorro Precision is a company specialising in the machining of high-precision components for various industrial sectors. From its facilities in London (United Kingdom), it has consolidated its activity as a supplier of technical parts, working with demanding tolerances and offering solutions tailored to its customers' needs.

Why did Lorro Precision need a CNC lathe?

Laurence, owner of Lorro Precision, was clear that the incorporation of a CNC lathe was a strategic decision, as the market increasingly demanded small turned components and, to manufacture them, they needed to increase their production capacity.

Technical challenge: how to overcome the limitations of 3-axis machines?

Lorro Precision carried out milling operations on a 3-axis machine. This workflow presented several drawbacks:

  • Manual adjustments. Converting the machine to perform the turning operation required greater manual intervention to ensure precision.
  • Inefficiency in short cycles. The increase in orders for small parts with short production cycles required a more agile solution.
  • Need for automation. The company was looking for a solution compatible with automation accessories such as a bar feeder, allowing them to maintain unattended production in both short and long runs.

How to integrate turning and milling in the same machine?

After a technical analysis by the CMZ UK team, the solution that best suited Lorro Precision's needs was a lathe TA-25-YS-640. This configuration allows:

  • Integrate turning and milling operations in a single solution.
  • Greater milling power. It features driven tooling at 75 Nm, 11 kW and up to 12,000 rpm to operate in S1 duty (continuous duty).
  • Less runout, less noise and better surface finish with the integrated oil-cooled heads which also have no belts or pulleys.

Thanks to the milling capacity of the TA series, operations that previously required the intervention of two machines, are now carried out directly on the lathe, optimising workflow. This type of configuration allows the integration of milling and turning operations in a single machine and is an increasingly common solution in the industry to reduce cycle times.

Results: shorter cycle time and greater process control

The addition of the CMZ lathe has enabled Lorro Precision to make a qualitative leap in its production.

  • Reduction in cycle times. The high milling capacity and the elimination of machine changes have optimised workflow while maintaining a competitive cost structure.
  • Automation. The bar feeder solution allows unattended operation in short runs, saving costs in part handling.

Why is it important to know how a CNC lathe is manufactured before buying it?

During the process of acquiring a new machine for a workshop, visiting the manufacturer's facilities helps to resolve specific questions, assess possible configurations and see the production process first-hand. Lorro Precision had the opportunity to tour CMZ's facilities before acquiring its TA-25-YS-640.

CMZ produces more than 80% of the components of its machines in its own plants, which provides distinctive added value. This comprehensive control of the process reinforces the quality and guarantee associated with the "Made in Europe".

Warranty and local support

The installation of the machine was carried out directly by the CMZ technical team in the United Kingdom. Attention to detail means taking care of every stage of the process from start to finish: from initial advice to after-sales service. With this in mind, CMZ provides its customers with a free direct hotline that guarantees a rapid response to any need.

Lorro Precision has increased its machine fleet, but above all it has optimised its production process. A step forward in efficiency, versatility and competitiveness by opting for lathes manufactured in Europe with extensive milling capabilities.

Additional information