CNC machining is a general term that is used to refer to a wide range of machining operations. CNC is an abbreviation for Computer Numerical Controlled, and it refers to the machine's programmable feature, which allows the machine to perform a wide range of functions with minimal human intervention. Precision CNC Machining is the process of fabricating a component with the aid of a computer-controlled machine. In subtractive manufacturing, the term refers to a variety of processes in which material is removed from a stock workpiece, or bar, in order to produce a finished component component part. CNC machining can be divided into five types, each of which is performed by a different type of CNC machine.
Medical, aerospace, industrial, oil and gas, hydraulics, firearms, and a variety of other industries employ these processes in a variety of applications. Examples include:CNC machined parts can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastics, glass, composites, and wood.
1. CNC Lathes and Turning Machines
When machining materials, CNC lathes and turning machines are distinguished by their ability to rotate (turn) the materials while performing the machining operation. In this type of machine, the cutting tools are fed in a linear motion along the rotating bar stock, removing material from the circumference of the bar stock until the desired diameter (and feature) is achieved.
CNC Swiss lathes (which are the type of machines that Pioneer Service uses) are a subset of CNC lathes (which are the type of machines that Pioneer Service uses). CNC Swiss lathes are designed so that the bar of material is rotated and slides axially through a guide bushing (which serves as a holding mechanism) into the machine. As the tooling machines the part features (resulting in better/tighter tolerances), this provides significantly better support for the material as it is machined.
CNC lathes and turning machines are capable of creating internal and external features on a component, such as drilled holes, bores, broaches, reamed holes, slots, tapping, tapers, and threads, among other things. Screws, bolts, shafts, poppets, and other similar components are manufactured on CNC lathes and turning centers.
#2 – Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling Machines
CNC milling machines are distinguished by their ability to rotate cutting tools while maintaining the material workpiece or block in a stationary position. In addition to face-milled features (shallow, flat surfaces and cavities in the workpiece), they can also produce peripheral milled features (deep cavities such as slots and threads) on the workpiece.
A variety of features are included in the components produced on CNC milling machines. They are typically square or rectangular in shape.
#3 – Computer Numerical Controlled Laser Machines
Laser cutters, such as CNC laser machines, are equipped with a pointed router and a highly focused laser beam that can be used to precisely cut, slice, or engrave various materials. Using a laser, the material is heated and caused to melt or vaporize, which creates an opening in the material. A sheet of material is typically used, and the laser beam is moved back and forth across the material to create a precise cut.
This process is capable of producing a greater variety of designs than conventional cutting machines (lathes, turning centers, mills), and it frequently results in cuts and/or edges that do not require additional finishing processes after they are produced.
Precision CNC laser engravers are frequently employed for the marking (and decoration) of machined components. Making a logo and company name into a CNC turned or CNC milled component, for example, is a challenging process. While machining operations are complete, laser engraving can be used to add this to the component even after they have been completed.
4. Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM)
A CNC electric discharge machine (EDM) is a machine that manipulates materials into a desired shape by using highly controlled electrical sparks. It is also referred to as spark eroding, die sinking, spark machining, or wire burning in some circles.
It is necessary to place a component under the electrode wire, and the machine is programmed to emit an electrical discharge from the wire, which can generate extremely high temperatures (up to 21,000 degrees Fahrenheit). When the desired shape or feature is achieved, the material is either melted or flushed away with liquid.
EDM is most commonly used for the precise creation of micro holes, slots, tapered or angled features, and a variety of other more complex features in a component or workpiece, but it can also be used for other purposes. It is typically employed for extremely hard metals that would be difficult to machine into the desired shape or feature. The typical piece of equipment is an excellent illustration of this.
5. CNC Plasma Cutting Machines
Materials are also cut with the help of CNC plasma-cutting machines. These procedures, on the other hand, are carried out using a high-powered plasma (electronically-ionized gas) torch that is controlled by a computer systemPlasma torches perform in a manner similar to a handheld, gas-powered welding torch (which can reach temperatures of up to 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit). However, plasma torches can reach temperatures of up to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The plasma torch melts through the workpiece, causing a cut in the material to be created.
The material being cut must be electrically conductive at all times when CNC plasma cutting is used, as this is an absolute requirement. Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper are some of the most common materials.
Accurate machining service provides a wide range of production capabilities for components and finishing in the manufacturing environment, including high-volume production. When it comes to delivering the desired result, there is usually an optimal method that is dependent on the environment of use, the material required, the lead time, the volume, the budget, and the features required.