The Lathe: An Ancient Machine Still in Motion
From its origins in Ancient Egypt to the precision of modern industry
The lathe is recognized as one of the oldest machine tools in history. Its operating principle—rotating the workpiece to shape it with cutting tools—dates back to Ancient Egypt. Initially powered by ropes and manual force, it already allowed parts to be machined using a concept that remains essential today.
Technological advancements have transformed the lathe into a cornerstone of modern industry. Today’s CNC lathes deliver millimeter-level precision, repeatability, and high productivity, making them indispensable for automotive, aerospace, and industrial component manufacturing.
Modern lathes feature advanced clamping systems, robust materials, and full numerical control integration, enabling the machining of metals, plastics, and alloys with exceptional quality standards. This combination of tradition and innovation ensures that the lathe continues to be one of the most important tools in industrial machining worldwide.
