Lathe recommendations for Tungsten.

[Redz]

Can anyone recommend lathes capable of giving great finish on Tungsten up to 90%

Doesn’t have to be big projects only pen size.

Thanks in advance

[tjm229]

Depends on your size of batches and budget. You really need a machine with LFV technology such as a Citizen L32. This is a great machine as i have one and if you turn on the LFV it chips any material. Looking at around £180k though which is quite an outlay.

Take a look here https://www.mmturnedparts.co.uk/cnc-sliding-head-turning/

Regards Tim

[magicniner]

You'll need either coated TC tips for difficult materials or ceramic inserts, it may be worth using PCD for finishing passes, there is no "Special Lathe" requirement beyond it being a reasonably rigid semi-competent machine, avoid small, lightweight, or cheap machines.

[Muzzer]

Yes, a friend of mine did a good job of some governor counterweights in Ti using a Harrison M300. Dunno what tools he used but he said pure tungsten was brittle and didn't like being tapped, so moved over to an alloy. Presumably the <90% is helpful on that front.