ROLL TURNERS PUTTING SKILLS ON PAPER TAPE.

Traditional template-based methods and machines for producing shaped rolls are too slow and costly, and a few farsighted firms are exploring new methods and machines to replace the basic block lathes used to produce shaped rolls. This article describes how Bethlehem Steel Corp. converted to numerically controlled from laborious manually operated machines to produce matched shaped rolls. Experience to date indicates that one NC roll turning lathe can replace between three to five block lathes. Also, the accuracy and rigidity of the NC lathes permits working to closer tolerances.