ABSTRACT

Many experiments have been performed since long on conventional lathe machine, using mild steel as a workpiece and HSS as a cutting tool but now a days retrofitting technology has been introduced in machine industry to reform the structure for the performance analysis of machines. Retrofitting deals with the incorporation of new technology to the existing ones. In retrofitting, the machine components are replaced to
improve the efficiency. The digital and hybrid technology is being utilized now a days in most manufacturing scenario. In all manufacturing processes CNC machine is employed as a processing unit because of its high accuracy, precision and versatility. In
developing countries like Pakistan all manufacturing processes are performed through conventional lathe machines which result in less production, so it is necessary to develop the new technology to cope the market demand. The automation of manual machines increases the production rate of mass production which is beneficial for the economic development of the country. In this research work, the conventional lathe machine is equipped with semi automatic numerical control mechanism, in order to obtain more precise dimensions and shape of high end products. In this regard Machine Shop of QUEST Nawabshah is used to convert the conventional lathe machine into semi-automatic retrofitted lathe machine.
Machine tool performance is highly affected by the machining conditions such as
spindle speed, feed rate, depth of cut and tool geometry. These machining condition are optimized to enhance the performance of proposed retrofitted lathe machine with conventional and computerized numerical CNC) lathe machine The considerable amount of performance were observed when compared retrofitted lath machine with conventional lathe machine in terms of surface finish, production hon rate and dimensional stability.