Live Tool Turret (Core Component):

• Mounted on the spindle (typically with interfaces like BMT, VDI, etc.), capable of holding multiple tools.

• Key Feature: The turret can not only perform turning operations (radial), but more importantly, it features built-in drive power (driven by a servo motor), allowing it to mount rotating tools (milling cutters, drills, taps, etc.).

• Y-axis (Critical Feature): The live tool turret typically incorporates Y-axis functionality. This means the rotating tools can move not only in the X (radial) and Z (axial) directions, but also in the Y-axis (vertical direction). This enables the machine to perform off-center milling, drilling, tapping, as well as more complex 2.5D or 3D contour milling, significantly expanding its machining capabilities.

C-axis (Indexing/Contouring Control):

• The main spindle (and sometimes the sub-spindle) is not only a rotating spindle but also a high-precision numerically controlled rotary axis (C-axis).

• Functions:

  • Indexing Positioning: Precisely rotates the spindle to a specific angle for milling or drilling operations (e.g., milling keyways, drilling holes distributed around a circumference).

  • Contouring Control: During complex contour milling, the C-axis can interpolate with the X, Y, and Z axes, enabling true 3-axis, 4-axis (X/Y/Z/C), or even 5-axis (if equipped with a B-axis turret) simultaneous machining. This allows machining of complex surfaces, cams, spiral grooves, and similar features.