Article from Geomiq

Computer numerical control machining is an exercise where software controls how machinery moves as it produces an object. For example, when you want an automotive device from Geomiq.com, written codes are fed into the system whereby the machine runs as instructed. Consequently, your automotive item will be ready without the intervention of humans because the program runs independently.

Overview of the CNC Machining Procedure

CNC machining procedure starts by you or your CAD designer, creating 2D or 3D CAD design. The CAD/CAM software allows you to add dimension and geometry of the part you want to be manufactured. Other things to design with this software are the thickness, size and features.

The design is then run through CAM software to extract the geometry of the part. Consequently, the software will produce programming codes, which will be used to control how CNC machine to create your designed piece.

The other step is the setting up of the CNC machine after feeding it with programming codes. The process involves fixing the material from which your part will be produced, and other machine components.

Once the operators confirm that the machine is set up, they execute the program. Note that the program manipulates the machine on what direction to take and at what speed it manufactures the part designed.

Types of CNC Support Software

CNC machining uses software to achieve precision, accuracy and optimization. The first program is the CAD, which is used to design 2D vectors and 3D substantial parts. Other things you create using this software are the specification and properties.

The other software used in CNC machining is the CAM, which extracts program codes from CAD necessary for manipulating the production of a part. The program is responsible for aiding the CNC machine to function without human assistance.

Engineers also use computer-aided engineering software to support in designing, simulation, diagnosis and analysis. It helps engineers to identify a problem and repair it. The three are integrated into one program that manages the entire process of designing and manufacturing a part.

Choosing Material

Choosing a material from which a part will be cut depends on its specification and application. For instance, you can't use plastic bolts in a car engine: You need metal. Any material is suitable for machining but, metals, plastics, composites and wood are suitable for CNC machining. These materials must have the ability to withstand chemicals and high temperatures and have tensile and shear strength.

The material also determines how the program will be coded: the speed, depth of cut and cutting feeding degree. The CNC machine roughly prints the design on the material then takes deeper cuts to achieve precision and the strict requirement as per the codes fed onto it.

Size Deliberation

CNC machining applies to different industries, including automotive, electronics and aerospace. There are standard parts used across all three sectors. But the size and heaviness of each are different depending on the industry.

In other words, size consideration is an essential factor in CNC machining. How? It affects the setup of the machine, placing of specialized equipment, qualified and dedicated operator, among other factors. Manufacturing some parts might be more challenging than others. Nonetheless, CNC machining gets the job done.

CNC machining is a procedure for producing different parts for different industries like surgical equipment and automotive parts. There are three main ways of achieving how each of these parts looks.

CNC milling

This the process where the multiple-point cutting devices rotate in the same direction on the workpiece removing unwanted material from it. The process is used to achieve threads, shallows and flat surfaces.

CNC turning

The single point cutting device moves in a linear direction as it removes unwanted material from the workpiece. The tools move around the circumference of the workpiece until it achieves the internal and internal features of a part. The process completes threads, tapers and slots.

CNC drilling

Drill bits are employed on the workpiece to create cylindrical holes. A drill bit moves perpendicularly or angularly to a workpiece until the desired cylinder is achieved.

Other operations like honing, sawing and broaching are also used to achieve the specification drawn by the CAM software.

Take Away

Some things were impossible and impractical to design. However, since the introduction of CNC machining, these products can be manufactured accurately and precisely. Nonetheless, since this process depends on the codes written by an expert, you have to evaluate and choose the company with the best services. Check their success rate and rule whether the company is capable of handling your custom part.