CNC Turning – Precision Machining of Round Metal Components 

With CNC turning from EMAG, you can manufacture round metal components with high precision and cost-effectiveness—whether vertical turning for high-volume production or scroll-free turning for the highest surface quality in the shortest cycle times. 

Systematic CNC Turning: Vertical Turning and Scroll-Free Turning at EMAG 

Vertical Turning: Auto­ma­tion and Machining in a Single Step 

In CNC vertical turning, the work spindle handles both machining and part handling – a decisive clear advantage for efficiency in batch production. The pick-up spindle collects the workpiece automatically, machines it, and sets it down when done. No separate handling systems needed. Typical applications include gear wheels, sliding sleeves, bearing rings, and piston rings. EMAG’s vertical turning machines are built exactly for this. 

Scroll-Free Turning: Achieving Grinding Quality with Turning Technology

Scroll-free turning achieves surface qualities down to Rz < 1 µm – values previously reachable only by grinding. With feed rates of up to 1 mm/rev and cycle times up to ten times shorter than conventional longitudinal turning, scroll-free turning significantly reduces manufacturing costs and eliminates extra steps on separate grinding machines. The machines in the VT series are specially equipped for skin turning technology – mechanically, in terms of control technology, and in the turret design. 

Stability as the Foundation for Precision in CNC Turning

Both technologies benefit from the structural foundation of EMAG machines: base bodies made of MINERALIT® polymer concrete deliver strong vibration damping, while a firmly integrated tooling system limits elastic deformation during machining. The integrated cooling system also limits thermal effects and holds consistent machining quality through long series production runs. High rapid traverse speeds and compact axis strokes reduce non-productive times and increase productivity. 

EMAG VT series machine performing CNC turning of an outer race using peel turning technology
An EMAG VT series machine performing Scroll-free turning on an outer race. The 4-axis machining and integrated automation ensure short cycle times. The highest surface quality is achieved without an additional grinding operation.

Advantages

  • Integrated automation saves time: During vertical turning, the pick-up spindle handles both part handling and machining—eliminating separate handling systems entirely.
  • Grinding quality with turning technology: Scroll-free turning achieves surface roughness values down to Rz < 1 µm,  replacing complex grinding processes on separate machines.
  • Significantly shorter cycle times: Scroll-free turning operates up to ten times faster than conventional longitudinal turning—a direct lever for reducing unit production costs.
  • High process reliability from a robust machine design: Polymer concrete base (MINERALIT®) and an integrated tooling system reduce vibrations and deliver repeatable quality.
  • Versatile for both hard and soft machining: EMAG CNC turning technologies cover a wide range of components—from gear wheels and outer races to rotor shafts.
  • Fewer machines, less floor space: Short cycle times and an integrated process chain cut the number of machines and the floor space required in production.
     

Questions and Answers

In CNC vertical turning, the work spindle handles both machining and part handling. The pick-up spindle takes the workpiece from the conveyor belt, transports it into the work area for machining, and then sets the finished part down. The tool remains stationary below the workpiece. This configuration ensures optimal chip evacuation and simplifies dry machining. 

EMAG CNC turning technologies are particularly suited to rotationally symmetrical metal workpieces in batch production. Typical workpieces include gear wheels, sprockets, sliding sleeves, bearing rings, piston rings, outer races, and rotor shafts. Scroll-free turning calls for sufficient component stability and a tailored clamping system. Our experts will work with you to determine the best technology for your component. 

EMAG offers two high-performance CNC turning technologies: vertical turning and scroll-free turning. Vertical turning handles high-volume series production of round components. Scroll-free turning adds grinding-quality finishes within the turning process. Both integrate into exisiting process chains. 

A typical example is the machining of outer races: After roughing, a VT series machine performs 4-axis hard or soft machining. The bearing seat is then finished by scroll-free turning – in a single setup, with no retooling for a separate grinding machine. Integrated loading and unloading runs parallel to machining, keeping non-productive times to a minimum. 

For vertical turning, EMAG relies on the proven VSC and VL series. Scroll-free turning runs on the VT series, built specifically for this demanding process – with adapted mechanics, an optimized swivel axis, and specially developed control software. Contact us and we’ll help you find the right machine for your requirements. 

EMAG CNC turning technologies are especially common in the automotive industry and its supply chain – for components in transmissions, axle systems, and electric motors. They also serve any setting where round metal components are manufactured in high volumes with tight tolerances: commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery, and general machinery manufacturing. 

Savings comes from several fronts: Shorter cycle times in scroll-free turning directly reduce machine costs per component. Longer tool life from using the entire cutting edge reduces tool changes and costs. Integrated automation in vertical turning minimizes non-productive time. And eliminatiing separate grinding operations saves on extra machines and the floor space they’d occupy. 

Technologies

Technologies

Scroll-free turning technology developed by EMAG offers new possibilities for fine machining. With scroll-free turning, you are able to produce…

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Vertical turning is a machining process for metal components. EMAG was one of the first machine tool manufacturers to use the vertical turning process…

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