An Overview Of CNC Machining
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a manual process that coincides with a computer-generated system. Computer codes are pre-programmed to cut, bend, or fasten materials. A CNC machining process promotes consistency and speed within the workplace.
Manual Operations
A fully manual process that does not use a computer software program requires an operator to self-guide all of the materials that are being manipulated. An operator will need to consider the positioning of the raw materials that they are working with and will be responsible for measuring surfaces and guiding each tool that is used during operations.
Human error is much more common with a fully manual process. Mistakes could affect the physical appearance or functionality of finished goods. If a line of products is being mass-produced, inconsistencies in the machining process can deem a batch of products ineligible for sale.
Computer Codes And Guided Movements
Lathes, water jet cutters, and CNC mills are some types of equipment that are used to fabricate goods. With the use of a series of computer codes, raw materials will be manipulated quickly and accurately during each milling session. First, a series of codes will need to be input via the software program. These codes will determine the direction and depth of a cut, the angle of a bend, and other precise applications that a particular tool will perform.
The codes can be tested out during a sample run. The sample run will allow an operator to determine if a finished good will be prepared exactly as it should be. If there are any issues, a computer programmer can make adjustments to the codes that have been input.
CNC machining will require an operator to manually oversee each production process. However, the operator will not be directly responsible for moving raw materials through each process. Since an operator will not need to be as focused as they may need to be with a fully-manual process, they may be able to oversee the production of multiple machines at the same time.
Some targeted processes that often use CNC machining guidelines include embroidery production, 3-D printing, and wire bending applications. Due to the wide range of job duties that CNC programming can execute, a facility owner will discover that there are few restrictions on the number of products that they can produce. Switching from fully manual to CNC equipment will support a business plan that involves expanding a product line.