Cost optimization and increasing production efficiency are factors that particularly attract the attention of companies operating in a market economy. Modernization of production processes involves the need to implement modern technologies, thanks to which a given enterprise reaches a new level of business efficiency. CNC machining shows how drastic a difference can be achieved using computer-controlled tools, providing unmatched accuracy and repeatability of results on the production line. What does the process of metal machining in CNC machines involve? What advantages does it offer?
What is CNC metal machining?
Traditional methods of mechanical metalworking involve human labor, which removes part of the base material (raw material), giving the object its final shape. CNC metalworking also uses cutting techniques, but the entire process takes place in a specialized machine controlled by dedicated software. CNC machining allows working with various materials. CNC services include giving the final shape to products made of steel, aluminum, copper, bronze, wood, and plastics. The vast variety of applications and the option of quick changes in machine operating parameters contribute to the growing popularity of this method.
The project introduced to the CNC machine contains all the geometric data of the final product. Based on this data, the machine performs cutting and removal of successive layers of raw material, demonstrating maximum precision and speed of operation. CNC machines have enabled the serial production of specialized industrial parts, such as machine components, car accessories, or components for aircraft construction.
CNC machines themselves are nothing new on the market. The idea of metalworking using computer programs appeared already in the mid-20th century. However, due to technological limitations, the true boom in popularity of CNC services had to wait another 50 years. Currently, they are the gold standard of efficient production and allow for a full spectrum of operations, such as grinding, turning and CNC milling.
The process of providing a service for metal turning or milling should start with a technical design in accordance with CAD methodology. Computer-aided programming requires a detailed definition of the structural form of a given object, supplemented with geometric, dynamic, and material information. The integration of the design and manufacturing phase occurs at the stage of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). CAM programs translate 3D models into specific guidelines for the movement of CNC tools in relation to the processed object. CNC Turning subsequently occurs automatically, and the machine's control functions are carried out under the constant control of the software.
CNC Machining - How do CNC machines work?
CNC machining proceeds in any plane, providing full technological flexibility. CNC machines, on the other hand, come in numerous model versions, adapted to perform specific tasks. For this reason, few companies decide to create their own CNC facilities, bearing in mind the enormous costs of such an undertaking. A much better and more economical idea turns out to be using the CNC service from an external entity, which has ready-made infrastructure in the form of lathes, presses, milling machines, grinders, or devices for processing large-size objects.
CNC turning on machine tools is based on motion control systems that operate according to the introduced coordinate layout project. CNC machines integrate hundreds of sensors in their design, transmitting information in real time to the program that sends them further instructions. Every, even the smallest movement, occurs according to the programmer's expectations. Milling of aluminum, steel, copper, or wood remains free from human errors and forms the foundation for repeatable, serial production of crucial industrial components.
Milling and Turning CNC - what do these two machining methods involve?
CNC machining most often takes the form of turning or milling, between which there are important differences. CNC turning involves cutting out a specific part of an object (external or internal), in order to give it the desired shape, size, and desired surface structure. CNC metal machining using turning technique requires the use of multi-edge inserts mounted to the machine head. The machined product is set in circular motion, and the cutting insert performs its work according to the previously entered pressure parameters. CNC milling provides greater freedom of movement and involves machining a static object using moving tools. Multi-edge milling cutters adapted for work in a CNC machine remove the specified layers of raw material, using rotary or feed movement for this. This type of CNC machining allows the creation of any object, along with giving it specific surface characteristics.
CNC services have revolutionized the industrial world, providing unprecedented precision, efficiency, and cost optimization. The elements coming out of the machine are characterized by perfect repeatability of shape and polished edges, making them ready for sale.