Computer numerical control is an automated manufacturing method that manages and operates machines like lathes, mills, drills, etc., using a computer. This technique has introduced new life for industries by making the manufacturing process easy and making operations easy with high accuracy.
In this tutorial, we will cover detailed features of CNC machining and its importance in the manufacturing process, and will learn how to get reliable service from famous manufacturers.
What is CNC Machining?
- Through activating the CNC machine system, the required cuts are programmed and fed to the software, and the required tools and machines perform different tasks according to the requirements, as performed by the robot.
- In CNC programming, the code generator inthe numerical system follows that system errorfree irrepseptctive of the error chance, which is high when cnc machine is given to cut at different direction same time
- position of the tool in the numerical control system is defined with diffrent input series thatare according to the program.
- Through a numerical control machine, a program is given with punch cards. And for CNC machines given to computers with keyboards.
- CNC programming is saved in computer memory. Code is written and can be updated by programmers. So the CNC system has high computational capacity.
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CNC Machining Importance
- In older manufacturing processes, heavy machines are used. workingconditonswere difficult and difficult to manage. So they needed skills needed for manufacturing, but advanced manufacturing techniques based on automated devices and CNC for performing complicated operations.
- These devices perform safe and easy operations effectively and make the process clean.
- CNC with computer-aided design and CAM software is making new advancements for manufacturingand given industries new life.
- Some main features and advantages of Computer Numerical Control are that
- It works well for different conditons and safe way.
- It provides high accuracy and constant operation with less error chances.
- An accurate process of CNC machines provides accurate and optimized operations.
- It minimizes manufacturing cost and also uses low energy, minimizing generation costs.
- It is a high-speed process and easy to perform without any faults, and is performed in an automated way.
How Does CNC Machining Work?
- CNC machining is basically a programming language that follows instructions. Each CNC machine is made with a computing system or microcontroller. microcontroller design for understanding and explaining CNC commands for machines. Commands in instructions are delivered to certain machine parts.
- Program given according to CNC instructions that are easy to understand for machines. Some instructions are standard for CNC machining. Some commands are operated for certain machines and written in the manual.
- The machining process occurs through 2 way communication of programmer and cnc machines. cnc progamms also a type of language.
What are the steps of the CNC Machining Process?
The CNC machining process is performed with different steps that require a programmer and an operator. that involved different steps
Blueprints
- First of blueprints were made for certain objects. blueprints saved for parts in futureapplications. desingner andexpert make project blueprints.
CAD Model
- After making a blueprint, it is converted into digital 2D or 3D models with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software.
- The CAD model comes with different details like dimensions, cavity cavitiresdetails and wall thickness.
CAD to CAM conversion
- CNC machines do not get an understanding of digital design data that exists in CAD files. So CAD files are converted to CAM format that is easy to understand. different software used for performing thisconversion
Machine Configuration
The machine needed a certain configuration before applying the program. file, then transferred to a machine with certain ports on the machine system. The operator set different settings of the machines with the input system. An object connected to the working area and made to stay with clamps.
Execute program
- operator executures program, machines reads command, and as a result maching tool moves. The program stopped when the machining process was completed or when facing any errors with CNC machining tools.
- The operator can stop the program in the middle if any fault occurs.
Unloading
- When the program is finished, the operator removes the working component from the table. The operator checks the component quality, and after that, the working piece is delivered for further processing.
Common Terms of CNC Machining
Different terms used in the CNC machining process are
Computer Numerical Control
- Computer numerical control is a control system that peform different functions. This system is not limited to machining functions; it is also used for different machine automation.
Distributed Numerical Control
- DNC, or distributed numerical control, is a control system that makes connections between different machines with a central computer system. A computer system used at a distance to provide commands for connected machines. The main advantage of dnc system is that wecan check machninig at remotely through the machine tool.
- This technique operated for different machines at the same time.
Computer-Aided Design
- CAD is design software that makes 2D and 3D drawings of machining parts. CAD software does not perform machining operations, which are also part of engineering designs. The use of CAD software requires graphic design more than coding.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing
- Computer-aided manufacturing is software that operates to generate code for CNC machines. It operated with CAD software, graphical design, and was transformed into a coded program. The converted file comes with G-code and M-code instructions.
G-code
- G-code is a CNC programming instruction that delivers motion according to input given to machine tools. The motion of milling machines of the x, y, and z axes that remove materials on working components is regulated according to G-code instructions.
- G-codes give details about cutting devices’ accurate coordination to move at the required speed.
M-code
- M code is a category of CNC programming commands that instruct machine-based operations like coolant flow, pause/start/stop, and tool variations. M code comes with a larger bracket of machine instructions. So it is also called miscellaneous code.
Most Common CNC Machining Operations
for understanding the basics of CNC machining and the different types of CNC manufacturing processes used
CNC Drilling
- CNC drilling is a machining process that operates with a drill bit for making holes in working materials. CNC drilling benches are common CNC machine types since they are employed with a combination of different processes. limited diameter holes created with CNC drills.
- So these machines are part of the hole punching for screws.
CNC Milling
- CNC milling is used as a static working component for high-speed rotating tools for machining parts. CNC mills have different axes options for different features. Rotating cutting tools have different shapes and variations. There are different CNC mills, like face milling, slab milling machines
CNC Turning
- CNC turning machining process that employs static cutting tools and rotary components. working component set close to static cutting tools that remove material. turning machines used for cylindrical component machining. turbine cylindrical holes made through turning and drilling machines.
CNC Routing
- CNC routing is a process in which a cutting tool rotates over a working component over a thickness to pierce materials and make the least part. The cutting process of CNC routers occurs through friction in the working component and cutting tools. It is also called CNC cutting techniques.
