Centerless lathes (or peeling machines) are high-precision machining equipment, and their horizontal alignment directly affects machining accuracy, tool life, and equipment stability. After installation, scientific calibration is required to ensure the bed is in a horizontal position. The specific steps are as follows:
1.Prepare calibration tools
High-precision spirit levels (accuracy of at least 0.02 mm/m is recommended), shims (adjustable mechanical shims or rubber damping pads), wrenches, and adjusting screws are required. The spirit level must be calibrated to ensure reliable measurement data.
2.Determine the calibration reference plane
Using the guide surface of the centerless lathe bed as the reference, prioritize calibrating the horizontal alignment in both the longitudinal (along the machining direction) and transverse (perpendicular to the machining direction) directions. If the bed is a segmented structure, calibrate each segment separately and ensure overall consistency.
3.Longitudinal horizontal calibration
Place the spirit level on the longitudinal guide rail of the bed and move it along the machining direction, recording the readings at various positions.
Adjust the height of the centerless lathe’s leveling bolts or shims to ensure that the longitudinal horizontal deviation does not exceed 0.05 mm/m (refer to the equipment manual for specific standards).
When adjusting, tighten the bolts symmetrically to avoid bed distortion caused by uneven force on one side.
4.Transverse horizontal calibration
Rotate the spirit level 90° and place it on the transverse guide rail of the bed, repeating the measurement and adjustment steps.
Transverse horizontal alignment usually requires stricter tolerances (e.g., ≤0.03 mm/m), as tool vibration and workpiece feeding are more sensitive to transverse stability.
5.Re-inspection and securing
After the initial adjustment, multiple re-inspections and fine-tuning are required until the spirit level readings are stable at any position.
Tighten all leveling bolts and verify the horizontal alignment again to prevent deviations caused by loose bolts.
If the ambient temperature changes significantly, wait until the centerless lathe’s temperature stabilizes (usually 2-4 hours) before confirming the alignment.
6.Handling special circumstances
If the ground is uneven, adjustable shims or damping devices should be installed between the foundation and the centerless lathe, and secured with secondary grouting to ensure long-term stability.