When a part needs to spin, seal, or slide with zero room for error, CNC turning isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re machining shafts, bushings, or anything with tight diameter tolerances, lathe CNC parts offer unmatched precision and repeatability.
CNC Lathe Machining at Hibshman
At Hibshman Screw Machine Products, CNC lathe machining isn’t just a service—it’s a core capability. With high-performance equipment and decades of experience, Hibshman delivers:
- Tight tolerances and smooth finishes for rotational parts
- Production volumes from 100 to millions of units
- Material versatility including stainless, aluminum, brass, and more
- ISO 9001:2015 certified processes to ensure consistent quality
Hibshman’s team understands the unique demands of turned parts—especially when fit, function, and finish all matter.
Featured Examples of Lathe CNC Parts
Here are a few production examples that showcase Hibshman’s lathe capabilities:
- Bracket 169: Machined to exacting standards with .203-inch mounting holes, available in stainless or aluminum. Ideal for secure, symmetrical assembly.
- HS-160 10 MM BALL: A clean, repeatable turned component with a 10mm ball stud—perfect for high-rotation applications.
- XLB 10 MM Ball: commonly used in automotive assemblies, industrial machinery, gas spring systems, and actuators
What Makes a Lathe CNC Part?
A lathe CNC part is typically defined by its rotational symmetry. In CNC turning, the workpiece spins while a stationary cutting tool removes material—ideal for producing:
- Cylindrical shapes
- Threaded features
- Concentric step diameters
- Chamfers, grooves, and tapers
If the part’s geometry revolves around a centerline, you’re in turning territory.
Machining Motion and Axis Types
Modern CNC lathes aren’t limited to simple 2-axis motion. Today’s multi-axis machines unlock complex shapes in a single setup:
- 2-Axis Lathes: Perfect for basic turning profiles
- C-Axis (Live Tooling): Adds milling, drilling, and slotting in one machine
- Y-Axis: Enables off-center features and contouring without repositioning
These added axes reduce handling, improve part accuracy, and accelerate lead times.
Ideal Part Shapes for Turning
CNC turning is ideal for parts that are:
- Round or cylindrical
- Symmetrical along the axis
- Dependent on tight diameter tolerances
- High-contact or high-speed rotational
Common examples: bushings, pins, spacers, axles, couplings, threaded rods, and more.
CNC Lathe vs. Manual Lathe Output
While manual lathes are still used for basic or one-off jobs, CNC lathes are unmatched for:
- Consistency: Every part identical, every time
- Speed: Automated cycles reduce labor and production time
- Complexity: Multi-featured parts without manual repositioning
- Scalability: Perfect for high-volume production
Typical Tolerances and Finishes
CNC turning delivers:
- Tolerances as tight as ±0.0005″
- Surface finishes down to 16 µin Ra
- Excellent roundness and concentricity
These specs make it ideal for sealing surfaces, bearing fits, and dynamic motion components.
Selecting a Shop for Lathe-Based Production
Choosing the right shop matters—especially for high-precision lathe parts. Look for:
- Lathe-specific experience with tolerances and finishes
- Inspection equipment for roundness, straightness, and diameter checks
- In-house engineering to support DFM and material selection
- Volume flexibility and fast quoting capabilities
Hibshman brings all of that to the table—plus over 75 years of proven performance.
Conclusion
Milling has its place. But when your part demands concentricity, symmetry, and surface perfection, CNC turning is the right move. Partner with a shop that knows the difference—and delivers it.
Need a quote? Get pricing on your lathe CNC parts in 48 hours or less.
