A CNC machine, or computer numerical control machine, is one that is controlled by a computer system. A CNC lathe is used to produce items that are manufactured to exact specifications utilizing precise design instructions. A CNC lathe is a machine tool that holds a material or part in place and rotates it using the main spindle, while also attaching and operating a material-cutting tool on many axes.

The majority of modern CNC lathe machines feature tools that can work on several axes. Machines can have both X and Y axes, a second turret with more tools, or a second spindle, among other features. This means that a CNC lathe can do further milling, drilling, and tapping operations, resulting in a complete and even complex component production process that eliminates the need to transport the part to another machine for a second operation.

The cutting tool is held in place by an 8 to 24 station turret on a simple CNC lathe with two axes. “Turning” refers to the rotational action of the workpiece. This is why certain CNC lathes are also referred to as CNC turning machines. CNC lathes create precise round objects with outer diameters (OD) and inner diameters (ID) measured in millimeters (ID).

This machine tool can machine a wide range of structures depending on the needs of various sectors. Oil and gas, automotive, aerospace, medical, electronic, mining, power plants, steel and paper mills, and shipbuilding are just a few of the industries that employ them.