The CNC machining process is an automated and computer-controlled machining method that is used for making raw materials. This process allows us to create parts ranging from basic to complex designs. The CNC machining process is used for the vehicle industry, medical devices, the aviation industry, and different manufacturing processes.
In this post, we will cover details for CNC machining and its working and other features.
What is CNC?
- CNC full form is computer numerical control, a computer-based machining process used for the manufacturing industry.
- CNC machines work by using given programming software and codes that give instructions for controlling machines and performing different tasks.
- CNC machines cut metallic parts according to the given instructions of computers and according to the details of a pre-coded program, with no need for manual operation.
- CNC can be employed for different types of machines like lathes, lasers, and routers that provide cutting, shaping, and making different prototypes.
working of CNC machining
There are different steps involved for the working of CNC machining.
Design CAD Model:
- First of all, the designer makes a computer-aided design model in 3D design format. It is made with the use of CNC machines, and it is made with an accurate layout.
CAD File:
- After making the CAD file, it was transformed into a computer-aided manufacturing software package that made the render g-code that the CNC machine read easily.
Preparing the CNC Machine:
- In this step the machine is prepared through cheking any errors. After that, add the required tools, or the machine can get them automatically, and also put in material.
Machining Operation:
- When the materials setup is completed, the g-code is ready to apply, and the right tools are used. This cycle continues, and the working component moves and cuts materials according to design.
- If needed, the working component continuously moves.
Types of CNC Machines
There are different types of CNC machines that perform different functions.
CNC Mills
- CNC mills have features for operating on instructions that control and instruct material pieces on machines. The programming used for the mill machine is G-code or another language that is designed by manufacturers.
- Mills come with a 3-axis system, but some new machines have 3 more axis features.
Lathes
- Lathe machine cut pieces in a circular direction with the use of indexable tools. With the CNC process, cuts are applied with a lathe with high accuracy and speed.
- CNC lathes are used for making complicated designs that are not made manually on machines.
- • The control working of CNC-run mills and lathes is the same.
- With the use of CNC mills and lathes operated with G-code or any other code, most CNC lathes come with x- and z-axes.
Plasma Cutters
- In the machine, a plasma torch is used for cutting materials. This process is used for metal cutting and also used for other materials. For the high speed and heat needed for cutting metal, plasma is produced with the use of compressed-air gas and electrical arcs.
Electric Discharge Machines
- Electric-discharge machining (EDM) is die sinking and spark machining, which is a process that molds working components in different shapes through the use of electrical sparks.
- With EDM current discharges occur between two electrodes, it removes working component parts.
- If the space between electrodes is small, the electric field has high intensity and is strong as compared to the dielectric. In this process, current passes through two electrodes.
- parts of working component removed through electrode. EDM includes some other types.
Wire EDM:
- This process employs spark erosion for removing materials on electronically conductive material.
Sinker EDM:
- Sinker EDM uses electrodes and a working component soaked in dielectric fluid for the formation process.
Water Jet Cutters
- In CNC machining, water jets are used for cutting hard materials like granite and metal through the use of high-pressure water. Water is also mixed with sand or other strong abrasive materials.
- Manufacturers make the shape of parts with this process.
- Water jets are used as cooler materials that do not face the heat-intensive process of CNC tools.
- Its cool features make it useful for the aviation and mining industries, where water jets are used for carving and cutting.
Features of High-Precision CNC Machining
Accuracy and Repeatability
- The basic difference between standard and precise CNC machining is the level of accuracy. CNC precision machining tools apply the same instructions for getting good accuracy and constant work.
- Its repeatability features help to make the same components in large volumes.
Efficiency
- The use of accurate tools and features helps to use raw materials and reduces wastage. so it uses materials in an effective way that uses waste and reduces material costs. Consistent manufacturing quality, high-speed machining, and low faulty products made with automation provide high efficiency.
Complex designs
- With use of this process, we can make complex designs like turbine blades and molds with high-accuracy machining. The multi-axis features, computer-controlled tooling, real-time monitoring, and settings help to make complicated parts and objects.
Material Versatility
- The adjustment of CNC machining and tool features helps to manage different materials, like hard titanium grades and soft aluminum and plastics. Some metals and thermoset composites are also made.
- Based on a larger pool of CNC materials, it helps to use accurate materials for certain uses.
Flexibility
- CNC machining processes, milling, drilling, running, and EDMprovide flexibility in manufacturing, from basic prototypes to larger volumes of working.
- Its in-time manufacturing process reduces custom parts tooling and machining time.
Choosing a CNC Machining Partner
- The main factors for getting reliable CNC machining partners for components and related products are technical features and experience in this industry. The CNC service provider comes with accurate CNC machines and quality control tools for providing required machining demands. With that, also make sure that machining tolerances are also provided by manufacturers.
- JustWay is a China-based CNC machining company that provides quality services for CNC and related products. with the use of an advanced quoting platform that converts your design into a real product. They can provide precise CNC machining service tolerances as low as 0.002 inches. With that, they offer 3-axis CNC milling and 5-axis indexed milling processes with more than 30+ metals and plastics and 10+ surface finishes.
The features precise with low CNC machining services are;
Standard
- Critical dimensions
- Quantity of parts
- Removal of sharp edges and burrs
- Number of parts inspected
- Surface finish
- Threads and tolerances
On request
- Full dimensional inspection report Material/mill test report ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO27001, and IATF 16949 certifications
- First article inspection for orders of 100+ units Certificate of Conformance
- REACH Material Test Reports Material Certificates RoHS
CNC Machining Materials
CNC machining has features for working with different materials.
Metal:
- It is a common material used for CNC machines; we can use it for each metal type. It uses free-machined brass with nickel superalloys such as Inconel; we can make different products, for example, gears and shafts.
Plastic:
- for plastic, injection molding made products, with that make certain parts such as valve bushings, nylon, and polycarbonate.
Wood:
- CNC routers used for making shapes and carving wood. It is used for decoration for different functions.
Foam:
- closed- or open-cell polyurethane foam cut through a CNC machine for cutting packages in toolboxes
Conclusion
CNC precision machining is the best option for complex designs and where high accuracy is needed. Its automated process and less human work provide high accuracy. Its precision, high speed, efficiency, and other features reduce time and save extra expenses.
FAQs
What is the difference between CNC machining and precision machining?
- CNC machining work through automated control of machining tools with the use of computer programs and precision machining work through getting high tolerance and accuracy for making different materials
Is CNC machining accurate?
- CNC machining provides high tolerance of about ±0.001 inches (±0.025 mm) or higher. It is based on machine working features and item materials.
What are the types of CNC machines?
- The main types of CNC machines are CNC milling machines, lathes, CNC laser cutters, routers, EDMs, plasma cutters, and grinders.
What is CNC machining used for?
- The CNC machining process provides high accuracy for different industries like aviation, vehicles, medical tools, electronics, and custom prototypes.
Is CNC machining high cost?
- the use of advanced technology and high accuracy results It is a costlier process than conventional machining. but long-run products minimize per-unit cost due to manufacturing speed and high efficiency.
