All about CNC machines and their applications

CNC machines are defined as a computer-managed machining system that allows manufacturers to automate many manufacturing operations that would otherwise have to be done manually. As a result, CNC machines are used to increase productivity, reduce waste, and even eliminate the risk of human error.

CNC machining is considered a “minus” manufacturing technology, meaning the final product is formed by selectively removing excess material from the workpiece. Every end-to-end CNC machining operation follows a similar 4-step manufacturing process:

Parts manufactured through machining using CNC machines typically begin as an initial design from computer-aided design (CAD) software. During the design phase, engineers give careful thought to all aspects of the desired end product. For example, parameters for optimal performance, operating conditions for the end part, and acceptable tolerance variation.

Upon completion of the initial design phase, the CAD model must be converted into a functional CNC program, using “computer-aided manufacturing” (CAM) software. CAM software can extract geometry requirements from the original CAD model file and translate them into a CNC-compatible programming language — such as G-code or M-code — that dictates mechanical operations. machine learning.

Next, the operator of the CNC machines must set up both the machine and the target material according to the specifications given by the CNC program. The operator will ensure that the precision drilling/cutting tools are properly installed and matched with the appropriate drill bits or end mills. The operator must also set up the workpiece, usually in a fixed clamp or directly attached to CNC machines.

Finally, the CNC machine operator performs the desired mechanical processes. During operation, the CNC program precisely controls the movements of the machine tool.

The most common types of CNC machines are those that use a cutting tool to remove excess material from the workpiece. While there are CNC machines that use waterjet cutting and electrical discharge machining (EDM) operations, this guide will focus on the five most common in the following list, divided into two basic classifications: machines 3-axis and multi-axis

3-axis machines allow cutting tools to move along straight three-dimensional vectors (up and down, left and right, forward and backward). There are two types of 3-axis CNC machines:

In a CNC milling operation, the workpiece remains stationary and a high-speed rotary cutting tool descends on the workpiece to remove excess material. This type of machine is useful for forming basic geometric shapes.

During CNC turning operations, the cutting tool remains stationary while the workpiece rotates at high speed on the spindle. CNC turning offers the ability to produce cylindrical parts quickly and to tight tolerances. For example, Technox Machine and Manufacturing has CNC lathes that can manufacture parts up to 152″ in diameter and 240″ in length, while keeping a tight ±0.001″ tolerance. The major disadvantage to 3-axis turning operations is that only cylindrical parts can be efficiently produced.

Multi-axis CNC machines are similar to 3-axis machines, but with a higher degree of freedom in mechanical movements. For example, multi-axis machines can use rotary and cross-cut operations. There are three types of multi-spindle CNC machines:

Although this type of milling machine can only cut along 3 linear axes during operation, between operations the operator has the ability to rotate the bed and the tool head for the next cut, allowing for increased production capacity. Figure.

These types of CNC machines allow continuous movement along three linear and two rotating axes during operation. This gives the operator the ability to create highly complex forms from the target workpiece.

Milling turning centers combine the functions of CNC lathes and CNC milling machines. The workpiece can be rotated at high speed on the spindle or precisely positioned for milling operations.