Turning is at the heart of precision metalworking—especially when you’re crafting stainless steel components for demanding industries. From simple shafts to intricate housings, a lathe can transform raw bar stock into perfectly shaped parts. Here are the five essential turning processes you need to know:
1. Straight (Cylindrical) Turning
What it does: Removes material along the length of the workpiece to reduce its diameter.
Why it matters: It’s the backbone of every turned part—setting your stock to the correct outer dimension.
Pro tip: When machining stainless steel, use carbide inserts with a positive rake angle and keep cutting speeds moderate (around 80–120 m/min) to avoid work hardening.
2. Facing
What it does: Cuts across the end of the workpiece to create a flat, smooth face.
Why it matters: Ensures that one or both ends of your part are square and ready for precise assembly or sealing surfaces.
Pro tip: Use a rigid four-flute facing tool and keep feeds consistent to achieve a mirror-like finish on 304 or 316 stainless.
3. Taper Turning
What it does: Gradually reduces the diameter from one end of the part to the other, creating a conical surface.
Why it matters: Essential for making shafts that fit tapered bearings, hydraulic pistons, or custom joints.
Pro tip: Utilize your lathe’s compound slide or a taper attachment—and double-check your angle settings before cutting expensive stainless.
4. Profiling (Contour Turning)
What it does: Follows a complex shape or curve, sculpting the part to match your CAD drawing.
Why it matters: Allows you to produce ergonomic handles, decorative housings, or aerodynamic components in a single setup.
Pro tip: Break long contours into smaller segments to minimize tool deflection, and choose light, constant chip loads for consistent finishes.
5. Thread Cutting
What it does: Cuts internal or external threads right on the lathe—no tapping or die required.
Why it matters: Integrates fastening features directly into the part, saving assembly time and improving strength.
Pro tip: For stainless steel threads, run the lathe at slower spindle speeds (30–50 rpm) and use sharp threading inserts with ample lubricant to prevent galling.
Mastering these five turning processes unlocks a world of design flexibility—particularly in stainless steel, where durability and corrosion resistance are paramount. Whether you’re producing medical fittings, food-grade valves, or architectural hardware, each operation plays a crucial role in delivering parts that meet tight tolerances and demanding specifications.
At Marley Metal Technology Co., Ltd., we specialize in stainless steel turning and sheet-metal fabrication for clients around the globe. Our modern CNC lathes and experienced operators ensure every batch—small or large—meets your exacting standards.