What is sub-spindle turning?
Lathes with sub-spindles allow components to be machined complete, front and back in one setup. On sub-spindle machines with twin turrets parts can be machined simultaneously on each spindle, allowing you to benefit from reduced cycle times.
EdgeCAM for sub-spindle lathes
EdgeCAM for sub-spindle lathes offers the following main features:
Support for one fixed sub-spindle
Support for one upper turret and one lower turret
Side by side Sequence Window for twin spindle / twin turret
Time line for program verification
Simulation of main and sub-spindle movements
Synchronisation and turret priority
Automated sub-spindle lathe setup
Spindle docking
Bar feed
Operations are not supported using the new sub-spindle
and b-axis code generators. The exception to this is the Parting Off operation
which is supported. If an unsupported operation is selected a message
("Incompatible code generator - use cycles") is displayed.
Prerequisites
In order to perform sub-spindle machining in EdgeCAM you require the appropriate licence and a code generator configured to suit your machine tool.
A sample code generator based on the Mori Seiki MT machine is included.
See also
Where to Start in Sub-spindle Turning?