+86 15812515557
Siyan@hanbscnc.com
English
Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-09-15 Origin: Site
Swiss CNC lathes, also known as sliding headstock automatic lathes, are widely used for producing precision components in industries such as medical, automotive, and electronics. One of the most important decisions when setting up a Swiss CNC lathe is choosing the right part ejector system. Two common options are the back discharge (rear ejector) and the side discharge (side ejector).
Understanding the difference between these unloading methods will help you improve productivity, protect delicate parts, and ensure smooth automation.
The back discharge system pushes finished parts directly out through the back of the main spindle. A pusher or ejector rod moves the part into a collection tube or bin.
Key advantages of back discharge:
Ideal for long, slender parts such as shafts, pins, and medical needles.
Smooth transfer through the spindle ensures less vibration and damage.
Works well with oil collection tubes or conveyor systems for high-volume production.
Excellent for automated, lights-out machining.
Limitations:
Best suited for parts with simple, straight shapes.
Complex geometries may jam inside the discharge tube.
The side discharge system removes the finished part from the side of the machine, usually with a side ejector, sub-spindle, or robot arm. The part is dropped into a collection tray or transferred onto a conveyor.
Key advantages of side discharge:
Suitable for short or irregularly shaped parts, such as flanges or housings.
Short drop distance reduces the risk of surface damage.
Can be integrated with robotic arms or vibratory bowls for sorting.
Limitations:
More complex mechanism compared to back discharge.
May be slightly slower in cycle time.
Requires more space for side equipment.
Feature | Back Discharge | Side Discharge |
Best for | Long, slender parts | Short, complex parts |
Speed | Very high | Moderate |
Part protection | Good for simple shapes | Better for delicate/irregular shapes |
Setup complexity | Simple | More complex |
Automation level | Ideal for mass production | Flexible with robotic handling |
When selecting between back discharge and side discharge for your Swiss CNC lathe, consider:
Part geometry – long shafts vs. small housings.
Surface protection – whether parts are prone to dents or scratches.
Production volume – high-speed runs vs. flexible small batches.
Automation goals – simple collection vs. robotic sorting.
By matching the discharge method to your production needs, you can maximize efficiency and minimize part damage.
Both back discharge and side discharge systems play an important role in Swiss CNC lathe automation. Back discharge shines in high-volume production of long, straight parts, while side discharge offers more flexibility for short, complex, or fragile parts.
Choosing the right system will not only improve productivity but also extend tool life, reduce part rework, and help achieve true unattended machining.
