Named for their widespread use in processing oil and gas components, these heavy-duty machine tools are now found in a range of industries. Aerospace, agriculture, printing, timber and mining-these are just a few of the markets where the term Oil Country is now commonplace.
But what exactly are Oil Country Lathes? And how are they different from other lathes? For starters, Oil Country Lathes are quite large. Some manufacturers offer models with a 78-inch swing and up to 320 inches between centers. The spindle bore on these lathes is also quite large, to accommodate the tube and pipe used in the oil and gas industry. The lathe just mentioned, for example, might have a through-hole of 15 inches. This gives Oil Country Lathes an alternative handle, namely Big Bore Lathes.
Because their users ask them to remove huge amounts of material quickly, Oil Country Lathes must be both rigid and powerful. As such, look for a design with a single-piece bed and base. Kent USA recommends having a third rail for additional support during heavy cutting. Also, a tool post that locks in place is a must-have to eliminate deflection. Auto lubrication systems assure precision and easy maintenance for the long haul. And for very long parts, a steady rest system will be needed, and possibly even a secondary chuck where the tailstock normally sits.
If a manufacturer is going to make big heavy parts, the lathe should be equally heavy. A high-quality Oil Country Lathe can easily weigh between 30,000 to 50,000 pounds and have a spindle with 30 horsepower or more. Massive steel rollers, large diameter flanges, long shafts for ships and power generation-these are but a few examples of parts turned on a typical Oil Country Lathe.
"Kent USA has some of the largest, highest-quality Oil Country Lathes available," said a Kent USA spokesperson. "We have many of them in stock. Send us your part drawings or give us a call."
The Kent USA large HK Series Oil Country Lathes offer swing over bed of 44" to 78.7" and distance between centers of 80" to 320". Spindle bore diameter is from 6" to 15". The spindle motor is 30 HP, optional 50 HP.
For more information contact:
Kent Industrial USA
1231 Edinger Ave.
Tustin, CA 92780
800-KENT-USA / 714-258-8526
sales@kentusa.com
www.kentusa.com