In CNC lathes and conventional lathes, turning tools are cutting tools used to remove material from a rotating workpiece. Below are 6 common turning tools, explained in detail, including their purpose, geometry, and typical applications.
1. Turning Tool (Straight Turning Tool)
Purpose:
Used to reduce the diameter of a workpiece and produce a straight cylindrical surface.
Details:
- Cuts parallel to the axis of rotation
- Can be right-hand or left-hand
- Removes material along the length of the workpiece
Applications:
- Shaft machining
- External diameter reduction
Tool Geometry:
- Single-point cutting edge
- Rake angle for chip flow
- Clearance angle to avoid rubbing
2. Facing Tool
Purpose:
Used to create a flat surface at the end of the workpiece.
Details:
- Tool moves perpendicular to the axis of rotation
- Produces a smooth, square face
- Often the first operation in lathe work
Applications:
- Squaring the end of a workpiece
- Controlling part length
Special Notes:
- Usually similar to a turning tool but optimized for facing cuts
3. Boring Tool
Purpose:
Used to enlarge or finish an internal hole.
Details:
- Works inside a pre-drilled or cast hole
- Mounted on a boring bar for rigidity
- Can perform straight boring, taper boring, or internal facing
Applications:
- Precision internal diameters
- Bearing seats and internal grooves
Key Feature:
- Overhang must be minimized to reduce vibration
4. Parting (Cut-Off) Tool
Purpose:
Used to cut off a finished part from the bar stock.
Details:
- Thin blade-like tool
- Cuts radially inward toward the center
- Requires proper alignment to avoid tool breakage
Applications:
- Separating components
- Cutting narrow slots
Important Considerations:
- Use adequate coolant
- Proper feed rate to avoid chatter
5. Grooving Tool
Purpose:
Used to cut grooves or recesses on a workpiece.
Details:
- Similar to parting tool but wider
- Can be used for external or internal grooves
- Groove width is controlled by tool size
Applications:
- O-ring grooves
- Circlip grooves
6. Thread Cutting Tool
Purpose:
Used to cut external or internal threads.
Details:
- Has a precise tip angle (usually 60° for metric/UNC threads)
- Synchronizes feed with spindle rotation in CNC lathes
- Requires multiple passes
Applications:
- Bolts, nuts, threaded shafts
- Internal threads (with boring-type tools)
Thread Types:
- Metric
- UNC / UNF
- ACME
- Square threads
Summary Table
| Tool Name | Main Function |
|---|---|
| Turning Tool | Reduce diameter |
| Facing Tool | Flatten end surface |
| Boring Tool | Enlarge internal hole |
| Parting Tool | Cut off workpiece |
| Grooving Tool | Create grooves |
| Thread Cutting Tool | Cut threads |
Other courses:
