Stationary engine lathes, while very precise with flexible cutting procedures, are only suitable for short lengths of tubing, because the tubing must turn and setup time is high. Single operation cuts without deburring are suitable for some applications. Tool bits are available for various materials. They are not generally suitable for use inside clean rooms due to the multiple lubrication points and floor space required. Portable pipe lathes dedicated to cutting tubing, clamp the tubing with OD collets, orbit the cutting tools around the tube, and can be used for bent tubing if some straight length for mounting is available.
Setup time is low, and single operation cuts without deburring are suitable for some applications.
Tool bits are available for various materials. Optional cutting modules for end plunge cuts, similar to dedicated end squaring tools, are available to provide almost burr-free ends. Lathes can be set up with sealed bearings, dry lubrication coatings, and totally enclosed electric motors for operation inside of clean rooms. Machine chips are long streamers for easy cleanup, which is especially important in clean room operations. Orbiting Mill Cutting.