Start a CNC lathe specification from the parts you will make, not from a brochure. Then state the capacity, spindle, axes, turret, controller, key components, accuracy and tests, electrical supply, safety standard, accessories, documents and support you need.
A clear specification lets you compare quotes on the same basis and gives you a firm reference at inspection. Send typical part drawings with it, so the maker can confirm the machine suits your work.
Capacity and spindle
- State the maximum turning diameter and turning length you need, plus the swing over bed.
- State the spindle bore and the largest bar diameter you will feed through.
- State the chuck size and type, such as a hydraulic three-jaw chuck, and whether you need a collet option.
- State the spindle nose type, maximum speed and motor power in kW, both continuous and short-term.
- State the maximum workpiece weight between chuck and tailstock.
Axes, turret and controller
- State the X and Z travels, rapid traverse rates and the ball screw and guideway type you require.
- State the turret type, number of stations and tool shank sizes, and whether you need live tooling or a C axis.
- State the tailstock type, such as manual or hydraulic, programmable or fixed.
- State the controller make, series and software options. Our article on CNC controllers covers the choices.
- Ask the maker to name the makes of the servo motors, spindle drive, ball screws, guideways and spindle bearings in the quote.
Accuracy and tests
Ask for geometric accuracy tests to a named standard, such as ISO 13041 or ISO 1708 as relevant, and positioning accuracy and repeatability under ISO 230-2. State your required values, based on your tightest tolerances. Our article on CNC accuracy and repeatability explains how to set them.
State the trial you expect before shipment, including a test cut on your own part, measured and recorded. Make acceptance of the trial a condition of dispatch, as covered in witnessing a machine trial.
Electrical, safety and documents
- State your supply voltage, frequency and earthing system, and the control voltage you prefer.
- State the electrical standard, such as IEC 60204-1 or NFPA 79, and any certification mark your site needs.
- State the safety requirements, such as a full enclosure with interlocked doors, and CE conformity if you import into the EU.
- List the documents: operator and maintenance manuals in your language, electrical and hydraulic drawings, parameter and ladder backups, test reports and the declaration of conformity where needed.
Accessories, packing and support
- List every accessory you expect, such as chip conveyor, coolant system, tool holders, steady rest and part catcher.
- List the spares to ship with the machine, and ask for a two-year recommended spares list.
- State the packing: rust preventive, sealed VCI wrapping, desiccant and an ISPM 15 crate.
- State the installation, training, warranty start date, response times and remote support you expect.
Next step
We turn your parts and needs into a clear specification, collect comparable quotes and check the machine against it before shipment. To start, book a free sourcing review.