VTL (vertical turning lathe)
Also called: vertical turret lathe, vertical lathe, VTL machine, CNC VTL, vertical boring mill
A VTL (vertical turning lathe) holds the part on a horizontal rotating table and turns it with tools that move vertically and across. Because gravity holds heavy parts down onto the table, it is the standard machine for large, heavy round parts such as flanges, rings, wheels and housings.
Quick facts
- Table
- Horizontal, rotating chuck table
- Common table sizes
- From about 500 mm to several metres
- Best for
- Large diameter, short length, heavy parts
- Operations
- Turning, facing, boring, grooving; milling on some CNC models
- Control
- CNC or manual
- Loading
- By crane onto the table
Why turn vertically
- Heavy parts sit on the table under their own weight: easier and safer to clamp
- No overhang bending the part, as on a horizontal lathe chuck
- Large diameters fit that would not swing on a normal lathe
Typical parts
- Large flanges and rings
- Wheels, pulleys and brake drums
- Valve bodies and pump casings
- Bearing housings and gear blanks
- Turbine and wind-energy parts
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Questions
- What is a VTL used for?
- Turning large, heavy round parts such as flanges, rings, wheels and housings that are hard to hold on a horizontal lathe.
- VTL or CNC lathe?
- A CNC lathe is for shafts and parts longer than their diameter. A VTL is for big, short, heavy parts with large diameters.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 8 October 2026.