CNC Swiss Machining for Fasteners and Threaded Components

What is CNC Swiss Machining?  

CNC Swiss machining utilizes CNC Swiss style machines to produce complex, high-quality parts in an efficient manner. A Swiss style CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Lathe functions by feeding bar stock through a guide bushing which supports the material near the cutting tool.

The use of a guide bushing allows for machining of longer components than typically achieved with a standard CNC Lathe. In a CNC Lathe, the general rule of thumb to machine a 3:1 Length to diameter ratio. So, if the part is longer than three times the diameter being machined, there can be issues with holding size and finish. By utilizing CNC Swiss Machining with a guide bushing, the length to diameter ratio concerns are eliminated, and we are only limited by the overall length of the part in respect to our machine.

Another benefit of utilizing CNC Swiss Machining is for production speed. The smaller work envelope of a CNC Swiss style machine allows for a quicker chip-to-chip time than a standard CNC Lathe. The effect is that the machine spends more time machining and less time tool changing. CNC Swiss style also allows for higher cutting speeds and feeds than a traditional CNC Lathe. Since the guide bushing supports the material close to the cutting tool, it allows for more rigidity, and allows for increased spindle speeds and higher feed rates which reduces cycle time. CNC Swiss machining can also be used in conjunction with numerous types of automation to help increase production. CNC Swiss style machines can be equipped with multiple spindles and multiple axis to allow for multiple process to be done at once. They also are typically equipped with automatic bar loaders, part conveyors, tool break detection, fire preventative sensors, etc., all of which help to allow the machine to run for long periods of time with little operator interaction.

How is CNC Swiss Machining Used in the manufacturing of Custom Fasteners?

The obvious answer to this is the utilization of CNC Swiss machining for achieving tight tolerances on bolts or other threaded components that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible with a standard CNC Lathe.  As mentioned above, when the length to diameter ratio of a part exceeds 3:1, the part will be difficult to machine on a traditional CNC lathe, but this ratio presents no challenge for a CNC Swiss style machine. When machining shorter bolts, threaded components, and other types of fasteners like washers, dowel pins and nuts, the higher rate of production from a CNC Swiss machine allows for the most cost-efficient manufacturing.

What quantities does it make sense to utilize CNC Swiss Machining for custom fasteners?

When making decisions about using Swiss CNC machining or other methods of machining, the key factors are the complexity of the component and the quantities required. Swiss machining can be an ideal choice when moderate quantities of relatively complex components are involved. At Ripley Machine, we are dedicated to operating in a lean manner and for less complex fasteners other manufacturing methods such as screw machines or cold heading may make more sense as quantities exceed 10,000pcs per order.

Machining Services Used in Conjunction with Swiss Machining for Fastener Manufacturing.

At Ripley Machine, we offer a wide array of services to help ensure that we can manufacture your fastener component.

For larger fasteners, we utilize CNC Lathes equipped with bar feeders and other automation to help ensure an efficient manufacturing process. For bolts and other threaded components that are too big for a CNC Swiss style machine, and that also exceed the 3:1 ratio mentioned above, we utilize tailstocks and sub spindles in our CNC Lathes.

Our production CNC Milling department enables us to mill features on parts that could not be efficiently manufactured with Swiss machining.

Our ISO Certified process for outsourcing allows us to offer a wide array of outside finishing services including but not limited to heat treating, plating, anodizing, laser engraving, etc.

Our Grinding department allows us to grind features to achieve tight tolerances and finishes that may not be able to be held on a typical machining operation. We are also able to grind features after a plating or heat treat operation.

Here at Ripley Machine, we offer a wide variety of precision machining services involving a variety materials, with quality, lean manufacturing, and customer satisfaction at the forefront, to  ensure that your fastener is manufactured to your specifications and on your timeline.  We would love to discuss how we can serve your application! Contact us today!