XavierA Comprehensive Guide to Swiss CNC Machining
Swiss CNC machining is the name of this type of machining that most people are fascinated with before they know the basics of the process. Yes, the name of the machine is related to the country of Switzerland. Apart from that, the machine offers a lot of features, which is why it is widely used all over the world.
Swiss machines have long been considered to be made specifically for Swiss watchmakers. It is a versatile machine that can produce small and complex parts.
In this post, we will focus on the characteristics of Swiss CNC machining. Today’s focus is on the complexity of the Swiss turning process and its advantages and uses.
1.What is Swiss CNC machining
Swiss CNC machining is usually machining performed by operators on CNC lathes, and its original design comes from Switzerland. The invention is attributed to Swiss watchmaker Jakob Schweizer. It is a specialized process that is usually focused on producing complex and delicate parts. The products of Swiss CNC machining are also known for their tight tolerances.
It all started in the 19th century when Swiss engineers designed a machine that could make small parts. The main mechanism of this machine was a guide bushing and a headstock with a sliding function. Based on this setup, the workpiece and the cutting tool can be close to each other. This improves tolerance and precision. Since the 70s, Swiss machines have replaced their automation with CNC.
Swiss CNC machining has one of the most impressive range of capabilities you can get. Some of the processes that can be performed in Swiss machining include turning, drilling, tapping, and milling.
Swiss CNC machining is faster and more efficient in part production than conventional CNC machining. It can deliver 30 parts per hour that are ready for shipment or delivery without secondary operations. Therefore, for smaller parts with thin walls and all other complex components, this is the preferred CNC machining process for producing small complex parts.
2.Difference between Swiss machining and CNC machining
Given the diversity of user needs, the debate of Swiss machining vs CNC machining is not going away anytime soon. Conventional CNC lathes are undoubtedly revolutionary, so it has its advantages. The same is true for Swiss CNC lathes.
Swiss machine tools are known for their short cycle times. They can meet the requirements of large-volume production. The capabilities of this machine tool depend on the availability of multiple axes, in some cases, more than 10 axes. The speed at which they can process complex parts cannot be compared with conventional lathes.
There is also a difference in the size of bar stock that the two types of CNC machines are able to process. CNC machining on Swiss-type machines is limited to smaller bar stock (about 1.5 inches). Conventional CNC machining is capable of machining larger bar stock.
3.Advantages and Disadvantages of Swiss Machining
When considering whether to invest in or use a Swiss-type CNC machine, you need to be aware of its advantages and disadvantages.
Here are the prominent advantages and disadvantages of this CNC machining method.
Advantages of Swiss Machines:
1) High Precision Machining
Swiss lathe machining technology tends to have very high precision compared to conventional lathes. While other lathes typically have a maximum of three axes, Swiss lathes can operate up to five axes. The more axes, the more precision the machine is able to provide machining operations. Swiss lathes can achieve tolerances of up to 0.0002 inches.
2) High Repeatability
Swiss precision machining is synonymous with consistent performance. These interesting machines produce high-quality components with amazing repeatability. This is an irreplaceable attribute for industries where even the smallest units are important.
3) Complex Part Production
If you are looking to manufacture complex parts with extreme precision, Swiss machining technology is the way to go. This machining technology is ideal for producing complex geometries that may be difficult to achieve with other machining operations.
4) Simultaneous Operations on Swiss Machines
Swiss machine tools continue to evolve. Today’s Swiss CNC lathes come with multiple tool spindles. This feature means that these lathes are able to perform multiple operations simultaneously.
It can turn a shaft on one spindle and drill a block on another spindle. This capability can reduce cycle times. It can save a machine shop a lot of time and money compared to traditional lathes.
5) Reduced Secondary Operations
Another notable feature of Swiss machine tool operations is that the need for secondary operations is minimal or even non-existent. This is because of the tight tolerances and unparalleled precision of the technology.
6) Reduced Deflection
As we all know, the distance between the workpiece and the tool can determine the degree of deflection. For Swiss lathes, the cutting tool and the workpiece are very close. Due to this setup, deflection is reduced, which brings other benefits such as higher precision machining.
7) Higher RPMs
Another feature of Swiss machines is their ability to run at relatively high revolutions per minute (RPM). Even at such high RPMs, there is no vibration. As a result, Swiss machines produce products with the best surface finish. The production time for this machining process is also faster.
8) Automation of Swiss Lathes
Automation advances combine perfectly with Swiss lathe capabilities. Swiss CNC machining has a variety of operations, higher stability, shorter lead times, and many other features combined with automation to great effect.
Disadvantages of Swiss Machines:
1) Bar Stock Limitations
Bar stock size limitations are one of the most significant disadvantages of Swiss turning centers. These CNC machines are usually limited to machining small bar stock, such as about 1.5 inches in diameter. For larger bar stock, conventional lathes are more suitable.
2) Higher Tooling Costs
Swiss machine tools tend to be more expensive than conventional lathe tools. The specialization of these tools is the main issue. Tools used to machine complex parts with tight tolerances are always more expensive than standard tools. Add to that the automatic bar feed mechanism and high-speed machining, and it becomes even more obvious why Swiss machining has high tooling costs.
3) Heat Dissipation Issues
The use of oil-based coolant in CNC Swiss-type machines offers several benefits. It prevents rust and tool wear while also reducing friction. However, this coolant is not completely effective in promoting heat dissipation in CNC lathes. As a result, Swiss-type lathes can be damaged by heat buildup.
4) Longer Setup Time
Swiss automatic lathes are powerful, so setting up can be time-consuming. There are multiple tools that need to be calibrated and fixed. This applies to the programming step, which can require a high level of expertise.
4.Applications of Swiss Machining
Swiss watchmaking may be the origin of Swiss machining, but today the technology has a variety of applications.
Popular industries that benefit from this solution include:
1) Aerospace
If there is one industry that has benefited greatly from this type of machining of complex components, it has to be the aerospace industry. Aerospace components are extensively manufactured using Swiss machine tools. The most notable metals among them are aluminum alloys and steel. Some of the components are fans and fasteners.
2) Medical Devices
The medical industry also makes extensive use of Swiss-type lathe products to machine precision parts. Medical devices manufactured using this machining method offer the high precision required by the industry. Surgical instruments and implants are perfect examples of the impact Swiss-type lathes have made in the medical field.
3) Electronics
Modern electronics are smaller and more complex than ever before. It is increasingly difficult for traditional lathes to achieve the desired results. Manufacturers have turned to advanced solutions such as CNC Swiss machining. These powerful CNC machines are ideal for producing connectors, pins, and many other electronic components.
4) Automotive
Swiss machining solutions are also widely used in the automotive industry. The technology is behind some of the latest mechanical advancements we have seen in the automotive industry recently. It helps in manufacturing smaller and more complex parts in the automotive industry.
Automotive manufacturers are using this technology to manufacture suspension components, carburetor covers, and engine parts. The industry has benefited greatly in terms of reducing costs, streamlining manufacturing processes, and increasing production speeds.
5.Conclusion
Swiss machining plays an important role in the operations of many manufacturing plants. Its versatility, reliability and cost-effectiveness in producing small, complex parts are unmatched by conventional machining. Its capabilities in very tight tolerance jobs are exceptional.
We detail the intricacies of the Swiss CNC machining process and outline the advantages and uses of the process. As renowned professionals in CNC manufacturing, we are more than happy to assist you with your Swiss CNC machining services. Please feel free to give us a call.