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Maintenance and upkeep points for twin-spindle CNC lathes and horizontal machining centers

Nov. 19, 2025

Twin-spindle CNC lathe manufacturers' horizontal machining centers have a horizontal spindle and typically feature a square worktable capable of indexing and rotary motion. 

They generally have 3-5 motion axes, commonly three linear axes and one rotary axis. This allows the workpiece to be machined on four sides (excluding the mounting surface and top surface) in a single setup, 

making them ideal for machining box-shaped parts. They usually have an indexing worktable or CNC conversion worktable, allowing machining of various sides of the workpiece; 

they can also perform combined movements of multiple axes to machine complex spatial curved surfaces.


Some horizontal machining centers are equipped with automatic worktable exchange, 

allowing simultaneous machining of workpieces on the worktable at the working position and loading/unloading worktables at the loading/unloading position, 

significantly reducing auxiliary time and improving machining efficiency.

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The maintenance of a horizontal machining center, particularly a twin-spindle CNC lathe, primarily refers to the maintenance of its mechanical components. 

Since these mechanical parts are constantly in motion and experiencing friction, maintenance is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of the CNC machining center. 

This includes tasks such as cooling and lubricating the spindle box, adjusting and lubricating the clearances of gear pairs, guideways, and lead screws, 

preloading bearings, and adjusting the pressure and flow of hydraulic and pneumatic devices. Due to differences in function, structure, and systems, 

the maintenance content and rules for CNC horizontal machining centers vary and should be tailored to the specific model and specifications.


① Maintain good lubrication of the CNC machining center.

② Regularly check the hydraulic and pneumatic systems.

③ Regularly check and correct the machine tool's level and mechanical accuracy.

④ Perform overtravel limit tests on each axis as needed.

⑤ Perform daily maintenance of the CNC horizontal machining center according to the instruction manual.