INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Tailstock

A tailstock is a movable component on a CNC turning center that supports the workpiece opposite the spindle, providing stability and alignment during machining operations.

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Component Specifications

Definition
The tailstock is a critical component of an Aluminum CNC Turning Center, designed to support the free end of a workpiece during turning operations. It consists of a base that slides along the machine bed, a quill that extends and retracts, and a center (live or dead) that contacts the workpiece. Its primary functions include preventing deflection under cutting forces, maintaining concentricity, and enabling the machining of long or slender workpieces. In aluminum machining, it ensures dimensional accuracy and surface finish by minimizing vibration and chatter.
Working Principle
The tailstock operates by sliding along the machine bed to position itself opposite the spindle. Once aligned, the quill is advanced manually or via hydraulic/pneumatic pressure to bring the center into contact with the workpiece, applying controlled force to support it. During operation, it remains stationary relative to the rotating workpiece, counteracting radial and axial forces generated by cutting tools. In live tailstocks, the center rotates with the workpiece to reduce friction and heat generation.
Materials
Typically constructed from high-strength cast iron or ductile iron for the base and body, with hardened and ground steel for the quill and center. Critical wear surfaces may be coated with materials like chromium or nitride for durability. Components in contact with aluminum workpieces often use materials resistant to galling, such as bronze bushings or coated steels.
Technical Parameters
  • Taper MT4, MT5, or ISO tapers
  • Weight 50-300 kg
  • Actuation Manual, hydraulic, or pneumatic
  • Quill Travel 100-300 mm
  • Center Height Matches machine center height (e.g., 200-500 mm)
  • Repeatability ±0.01 mm
  • Maximum Thrust 2-10 kN
  • Quill Diameter 80-150 mm
Standards
ISO 230-1, DIN 55027

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Tailstock.

tailstock CNC turning center aluminum machining workpiece support machine tool component live center turning operations metalworking Tailstock in Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Aluminum CNC Turning Center

CNC machine for precision turning of aluminum workpieces

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Universal CNC Lathe

A computer-controlled machine tool for precision turning operations on cylindrical workpieces.

View Product Details

Economic CNC Lathe

A cost-effective computer numerical control lathe designed for precision turning operations in small to medium-scale manufacturing.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Misalignment causing taper or runout
  • Insufficient clamping force leading to workpiece slippage
  • Wear of the center or quill affecting accuracy
  • Contamination from chips or coolant reducing performance
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Improper alignment with spindle
Failure: Workpiece taper or dimensional inaccuracy
Mitigation: Regular alignment checks using test bars and dial indicators; adjust tailstock position as per machine manual.
Trigger: Worn or damaged center
Failure: Poor surface finish or workpiece damage
Mitigation: Inspect and replace centers periodically; use live centers for high-speed operations to reduce wear.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Alignment within 0.02 mm over 300 mm travel; quill runout less than 0.01 mm
Test Method
ASME B5.54 for geometric accuracy; use of dial indicators and test bars to measure alignment and repeatability.

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a live and dead tailstock center?

A live center rotates with the workpiece, reducing friction and heat, ideal for high-speed aluminum machining. A dead center is stationary, requiring lubrication and used for heavy-duty applications but can generate more heat.

How do you maintain a tailstock on a CNC turning center?

Regularly clean and lubricate the quill and sliding surfaces, check alignment with the spindle, inspect the center for wear, and ensure hydraulic/pneumatic systems are leak-free to maintain precision and prevent workpiece damage.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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