CNC machining is Computer Numerical Control machining. It is a manufacturing process that is the result of instructions pre-programmed into computer software. The program determines the movement of the machinery and tools. The process is used for producing multiple machinery items, from lathes and mills to CNC routers, grinders, and more.
What is CNC Machining?
CNC machining is a manufacturing process that allows companies to complete multiple machinery tasks done without the aid or use of human assets. When an CNC system activates, the cuts have already been programmed into the software, so you see the machine executing those commands. If you’re curious about how that happens, it has to do with the code generator that is within the numerical system. In CNC programming, the placement of a tool is dictated by a series of inputs commonly known as the part program. The CNC machine programs are fed through small keyboards into the computer and memory of the CNC machine is saved in the computer’s memory. Programmers also write and revise the code. Given all that, it’s safe to say that CNC systems have profoundly better computational capacity.
Is CNC Machining Fully Automated?
CNC protocols today often have parts pre-programmed into the software. Computer-aided design software is used to develop the dimensions of the parts, and these are converted into actual finished products. Some pieces require more than one tool, such as the combined use of cutters and drills. In these situations, the best way to accommodate the orders is to have multiple functions in one cell. Some companies, though, use an installation program which has several machines and a set of robotic hands. That can transfer parts from one application to the next, making it easier to control every step of the program. Through the CNC process, manufacturers now have an easy way to ensuring consistency in part production. That would have been impossible to accomplish manually, which is one of the many advantages CNC workholding programs offer.
What Else Can CNC Machines Do?
Companies can also use CNC machines to create highly detailed and uniform cuts, which has made it easier for companies to produce hardware products. Businesses have benefitted from that. In addition, CNC products typically have unique requirements. That’s why CNC machines use various machine tools to create a nearly limitless variety of products and items. As long as the machine is programmed with the proper code, you can count on the machine to carry out every step in the pre-programmed data.
How Do You Choose a CNC Machining Company?
Some companies offer CNC machining services. Consider that if you don’t want to tie your funds down by buying machinery. Hiring a company to handle your CNC manufacturing needs and demands is a smart move. It can provide the manufacturing support you need without putting your company on the line. Be sure to go over the other services that the company offers and whether any of those services can also benefit you, such as building custom machinery or producing custom-made parts.
PDQ Workholding is a modern tool shop focusing on the design and manufacture of part holding devices. Our core specialty is hydraulically-actuated machining center fixtures. . The PDQ strategy is to employ the brightest personnel using the newest technologies to provide the lowest Price and quickest Delivery, while maintaining the highest level of Quality.
Our goal at PDQ is to provide our customers with the best possible workholding solution to make their project go as smoothly as possible. We stand behind our work and will support our customers if issues arise at any phase of the project. Lean operating practices and short chain of command allow us to react quickly and effectively. Workmanship on all fixture components is also backed by a two-year warranty.
CNC work holding methods keep your part rigidly in place and reduce the stiffness. You can also refer to work holding as fixturing. A good CNC workholding setup is key for locating the next part to be machined. Fixturing is also important for safety!
When machining anything, the stiffness of the entire operation is extremely important. Reduced stiffness will cause vibration and a significant decrease in the accuracy and precision of your machining process. The “chain of stiffness” is made up of the machine itself, the tool, your part, and the fixture holding your part.
If your part is able to move while being machined, there is no way you will be able to maintain any tolerances set forth by the design or drawing. Even a slight movement during machining results in poor accuracy. If you try to machine multiple parts with a poor setup, each part will be significantly different from the rest, resulting in low precision.
Manufacturing effort also comes into play when thinking about your workholding setup. For one, with an insufficient setup you will most likely have to remake the part. With a thoughtful workholding solution, you can reduce the number of machining setups. By designing useful features for fixturing into your part, you can reduce the effort and cost of machining.
