CNC Turning with M-lathe

With access to a network of over 10,000 shops, including those with CNC lathes and turning centers, M-lathe provides you with the capacity and capabilities your project needs, while also delivering the most competitive pricing and lead times. Our machine learning-trained technology platform also provides instant manufacturability feedback to ensure that your part is optimized for the CNC turning process and fits the requirements you need.

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CNC General Tolerances

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Distance Dimensions

For features of size (Length, width, height, diameter) and location (position, concentricity, symmetry) +/- 0.005”.

Orientation and Form Dimensions

0-12" +/- 0.005", Angularity 1/2 degree. For 24" and beyond please consult Xometry's Manufacturing Standards.

Edge Condition

Sharp edges will be broken and deburred by default. Critical edges that must be left sharp should be noted and specified on a print.

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Overview: What is CNC Turning?

The Basics Of CNC Lathes

A CNC lathe machine, also called live tooling lathes, is ideal for cutting any symmetrical cylindrical or spherical parts. Characteristically, a lathe spins a workpiece on a vertical or horizontal axis, while a fixed shaping instrument moves around it on a more or less linear path. The act of cutting a workpiece on a CNC lathe is called turning.

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How CNC Turning Works

CNC lathes use a subtractive method to create the desired shape. With the G-Code created, a blank bar of stock material is loaded into the chuck of the lathe's spindle. The chuck holds the workpiece in place while the spindle spins. When the spindle is up to speed, a stationary cutting tool is brought into contact with the workpiece to remove material until the desired geometry is achieved.

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There are many operations that can be performed on a live tooling lathe, including facing, threading, knurling, drilling, boring, reaming, and taper turning. Different operations require tool changes and can increase cost and set-up time.

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When all machining operations are completed, the part is cut from the stock for further post-processing. The CNC lathe is then ready to repeat the operation with little-to-no set-up time in between.

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