How Does Swiss-Type Machining Work?

Feb 24, 2014

This year, the 2013 Capital Spending Survey showed a change in the trend of applications that are generally expected to buy Swiss-type machining. Unlike past years in which medical and electronic applications have been the main spenders on Swiss-type machining, this year there was a larger and more even variety of expected spenders. Though, the definite cause of this change is unknown, it could be due to the recent finding of the many benefits of CNC Swiss-type machines. Recently, many companies have realized the many applications of this type of machine and in turn have installed them into their facilities.

There are many companies that are examples of a switch to this type of machining, though Groth Manufacturing stands out. This company is a manufacturer that has traded, sold, or bought over 48 CNCs including machining centers and CNC lathes.

A Swiss-type lathe is a special type of machine that is always able to cut the workpiece near its support point no matter how big it is. Because of the machine’s ability to do this, it makes CNC Swiss-type machines particularly beneficial to use for long and/or slender parts. However, when comparing to other types of CNC lathes, Swiss-type machines move in very unfamiliar ways. In addition, the commands of Swiss-type machines are different but new ways to program the machine are being considered. The ability to program the machine by hand rather than using software is also an option for machinists.

Since Swiss-type machining has recently become more popular, a company, Encompass Swiss Consulting, was founded. This company was founded to assist facilities in becoming more skilled and comfortable with the use of these machines. The founder notes his understanding of the differences in using this type of machine and the need for machinists to be able to acclimate the way they go about operating them. Some of the differences in these machines include:

A change in programming due to the Z-axis motion coming from the stock rather than the tool.
An alteration in the sequence of cuts in the cycle.
Everything now revolves around the guide bushing.
The use of oil rather than water.
More production in a small work area.

The president of Groth Manufacturing, John Groth, has been surprised at how quick production with a Swiss-type machine has been. He has stated that with this type of machine, he has more leeway when machining parts because of the increased stability of a Swiss-type machine. He has mentioned that with the purchase of Swiss-type lathes, he has been able to expand his shop and increase his revenue. Even though, he has noted increased production, he has also mentioned that Swiss-type machines are not meant to be used on all machine parts. CNC Swiss-type machines are the most beneficial when used for small, turned parts with rigid tolerances and smaller quantities.