The latest on Swiss-type machines

What is a Swiss-Type Machine?

A lathe is commonly used to help a machine rotate a workpiece around an axis. This is commonly used in shaping, drilling, and even sanding. The need for symmetry when shaping a piece of metal, wood, and a variety of other materials. The types of lathes do differ immensely depending on their main function and size. A Swiss-type machine is also commonly referred to as a Swiss drilling machine as this is a predominant function this type of lathe is used for. Below will investigate the history, current use, maintenance, and information you need on the Swiss-type machine. 

History and Current Use of Swiss-Type Machines

The necessity of having parts that were compatible across a variety of products increased immensely. The world has become far more industrialized than in the past. The demand for these types of parts led the inventive minds to try to create something to meet this growing demand. The Swiss watchmaking community utilized movable machines which were later named Swiss-type screw machines. The technology that these used was unmatched at the time leading to a variety of industries adopting the use of the machine. 

The 1980’s coupled technology with machinery as the Swiss-type machines started to be used for parts for electronics. As technology continued to progress the Swiss machine followed suit. The controls saw improvement which yielded faster, stronger, and more precise machines. The machines required this improvement as it has been used in the production of important parts. Parts mentioned could be for the medical and aerospace industries. 

In today’s world, this premium technology is available to a variety of businesses. The affordability of quality Swiss-type machines has improved as technology has rapidly developed. The world of 3D printing and other similar technology could lead to the further development of amazing lathes.

Why Pick a Swiss-Type Machine? 

For those companies or individuals looking for a CNC machine that can deliver versatility then a Swiss-style lathe is a perfect match. These products are widely manufactured which breeds competition. Saturation of the market leads to more affordability and increased quality of these machines. For companies that are making narrow parts, the Swiss-type machine is the best machine possible. The width ratio can be far narrower than other CNC machines allow for. The automated controls of this piece of CNC equipment offer unmatched precision with convenience. 

Maintenance Tips 

With all types of machinery regardless of their function, there is going to be a need for maintenance. With the accuracy and detail-oriented nature of the work that Swiss-type machines produce, proactive maintenance is essential. The breaking down of one of these machines will cause a business to bleed money in lost production. The daily maintenance tips including looking at pressure and fluid levels. A small cleaning removing any dust or other particles can ensure the machine runs smoothly. 

Twice a year there should be major maintenance done when compared to the simplicity of the daily cleaning/oiling. Bringing a specialist can ensure the health of a Swiss-type machine as they handle these tasks daily. Cleaning the machine thoroughly will include the coolant tank, radiator, and the chuck and jaws. Replacing damaged parts will also avoid disaster if one damaged part causes multiple other parts to carry too much stress. 

Yearly a specialist that can conduct specific tests to see how your CNC machine is working could not be more important. For those that have been proactive about maintenance, this can be a day filled with great news. Others that have neglected the recommended maintenance procedures might find the life of their Swiss-type machine is being cut short. The specialist will check the headstock and tailstock for tapering/weathering. There might be adjustments that have to be made on the X and Z axis which the specialist can diagnose. Maintenance of these important machines will count as a tax-deductible cost which is essential to keep in mind. A few days at a company with the wrong CNC machines down can lead to massive layoffs or a huge hit in monthly revenue. 

The Addition of Swiss Lathes To Your Business

There are plenty of businesses that rely on small detailed parts to be produced with high precision at large volumes. For those utilizing other styles of lathes, the Swiss-style can allow these to handle larger parts. The optimization of this process can improve production exponentially. This style is more productive overall with the ability of one Swiss-style machine being a production juggernaut. The machine is able to handle a workload that multiplies that of a traditional CNC machine. The capabilities of these machines are only going to increase as the programming becomes far more advanced. The application of this machine could change due to its versatility and demand for parts in the years to come. The desire to create some of the most narrow and detailed parts for a product can be fulfilled by investing in a Swiss-type machine. 

Technology has developed considerably in the last few decades with the Swiss-type machine being the perfect example!