What Is CNC Machining? Working Process & It's Applications
CNC machining is a manufacturing process where the pre-programmed computer software assigns the whole process. CNC – Computer Numerical Control – controls machining tools through Computer. Machine tools such as grinders, lathes, drills, boring, cutting, chamfering, end forming, punching, bending, and more. CNC machining is mainly utilizing the manufacturing process in metal and plastic industries. Before that, a hydraulic system exists. Many of the machining processes take place by using hydraulic systems.
What is a CNC machine? How do CNC Machines Work?
The controlling of machine tools accomplishes with the help of CNC machines. Earlier, the processes were controlled manually, but now, the automatic process came into existence. The servo motor helps to operate the CNC machines precisely. Therefore, this kind of CNC machine ensures a fully automatic process.
CNC Machining Process
The basic machining process of includes:
- CAD model Designing
- Converts the CAD file into a CNC Program
- Manufacturing the CNC Machine
- Then, finally Operating the Machine
CAD MODEL DESIGNING
The CNC machining process starts with the 2D or 3D design of the outcome using CAD/CAM. This helps the manufacturers and the designers to generate a model, parts, and then products with their technical specifications. After completing the CAD design, the design is then exported to a CNC programming format.
[CNC Machining Process Supporting Software: CAD/CAM/CAE]
CONVERTS THE CAD FILE INTO A CNC PROGRAM
The CAD file runs through a program, CAM software. It generates a digital programming code that controls the CNC machine and the machining tools for producing the custom-design parts. It uses several programming languages. During the completion of CNC programming, the user loads it to the CNC machine.
MANUFACTURING THE CNC MACHINE
Then the machine completes the design with the help of a program. All the operations are generated and accomplished accordingly. The program feeds according to the accurate machine’s tooling process. Once done, the user can operate the machine.
OPERATING THE MACHINE
Finally, the CNC machining process takes over with the programming guide. Hence, the execution of output is done with the appropriate machining operation.
Various CNC Machines
- Milling Machines
- Lathes Machines
- Drilling
- Turning Machines
- Routers Machines
- Plasma cutters, lasers, and Waterjets
- Wire Bending Machines & Tube bending
[Suitable Materials for CNC Machining Process: Metal, Plastic, Wood, Foam, and then Composites]
Therefore, the CNC machines are required wherever a higher accuracy is needed. Therefore, the machining process applicable in many fields: Aerospace, Electrical, Defence, industrial machinery, Food & beverages, Mining, Clothing, Automotive industries, product designs, etc.
Advantages
- Manpower reduction – Hence, reduces the labor costs
- Precise Output Production
- Rate of Production Increases
- Manufactures Complex Designs
Disadvantages
- High Costs
- Difficult to make even a smaller change
