CNC History: The Origination and Evolution of CNC Machining

CNC history

Presently, CNC machining is a popular manufacturing process with a wide range of industrial applications. However, what do you know about CNC history? Have you ever thought about the history of CNC machines? In this article, we’ll delve into the origination and evolution of CNC machining.

 What Is CNC Machining?

CNC machining is a manufacturing process in which a computer directs machines using programming codes to make a product. CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process. This means that the computer program directs these tools (for example, drills, mills, and lathes) to constantly chip away at a workpiece. This continues until the desired product is formed.

Advantages of Using CNC Machining

CNC machining has extensive industrial applications. For example, industries such as aerospace, health, and consumer electronics rely on their advantages. Below are the advantages of CNC machining.

1. CNC Machining Is A High Precision Process

Many industries need tools made from high precision manufacturing processes. A top industry, much known for this requirement, is the Aviation industry. Because they deal with human lives, it is unwise that their machines come from low-quality and low-precision manufacturing process. Therefore, they bank on the high precision capability of CNC Machining.

2.CNC Machining Produces Parts with Accuracy

Another CNC machining advantage is its accuracy. Its programming codes and operator control allows it to produce parts as accurately depicted in the CAD file. Therefore, you don’t need to worry if there are many parts to fit into a bigger component. They will seamlessly fit into each other.

3.Material Choice

When compared with other manufacturing processes such as 3D printing, CNC machining has a valuable edge. That is it supports of many materials. For 3D printing and others, there is a limitation on the type of materials you can choose for your parts.

The only rule about choosing a material for CNC machining is its compatibility with the manufacturing process. Therefore, you will need to consider factors such as: Heat tolerance, Stress resistance, Hardness, Fastening, Design tolerance. Selection Hardware factory can process a variety of materials, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, zinc alloy, copper, brass, bronze, iron, stainless steel, steel, etc.

 CNC History

When you look at the history of CNC machines, you will know that CNC machining did not start as many people think it did. Presently, wherever we say or see CNC machining, we expect a computerized process. However, CNC machining, to be precise, was just recently computerized.

The First CNC Machine

The first CNC machine was credited to James Parsons in 1949.  Parsons was a computer pioneer who worked on an Air Force Research Project. The research was about how to produce helicopter blades and better aircraft skin. Parsons was able to calculate helicopter airfoil coordinates with an IBM 602A multiplier. He then fed the data into a punched card, which he used on a swiss jig borer. This information led to the manufacture of many helicopter blades and aircraft skins. According to the accepted CNC history, this was considered the first CNC machine. Parson would later receive the Joseph Maria Jacquard Memorial Awards for his work.

Development of CNC Technology

Before the development of the first CNC machine, some machines could be instructed to make other tools. This was called Numerical Control (NC). You should notice the absence of Computerized (C).

Parsons would later develop the first CNC machine. With this development, there came an evolution. Below is a timeline of the evolution that occurred in the history of CNC machining.

1952 – 1958

As the Cold War became intense, there was a need to improve efficiency and productivity in making many machines and weapons. Therefore, in 1952, Richard Kegg, together with MIT, made the first CNC milling machine known as Cincinnati Milacron Hydrotel. Richard Kegg would later file for a patent for the Motor Controlled Apparatus for Positioning Machine tool in 1958.

1967 – 1972

CNC machining was becoming more recognized across the world. This was due to the Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Machining (CAM) development in 1972. CAD and CAM inclusion in CNC machining led to massive developments in CNC machining. However, the two were not regarded as a standard part of the manufacturing process.

1976 -1989

In 1976, 3D Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Machining were included into CNC machining. In 1989, CAD and CAM software-controlled machines became the industrial standard for CNC machines.

 Today’s CNC Industry

The evolution of CNC machines is unique. Starting from a simple machine controlled with a punch card to a software-powered machine is enigmatic. Because of the evolution, CNC machining became faster, more precise, and accurate than NC and the first CNC machine.

CNC Machining Applications

CNC machining has developed over time into something of wide recognition worldwide. Because of its advantages, many companies incorporated it into their manufacturing process. CNC machining is not only applicable to the industrial sector only. It is as important at the manufacturing level, which determines its use industrially. Below are the top industries applications and manufacturing capabilities of CNC machining.

1.Industrial Applications

  • Automotive

The Automotive industry is a major user of CNC machining. They depend on the manufacturing process in making their prototypes and in production.

  • Consumers Electronics

While it might be surprising, the consumer electronics industry also uses CNC machining. Companies such as Apple use CNC machining in their production.

  • Aerospace/Military

The two industrial sectors are major users of CNC machining. This is because of its high precision and accuracy. CNC machining is also ideal because it can produce on-demand replacement and upgraded versions of any parts.

2.Manufacturing Applications

  • Prototyping

CNC machining is a good process for making prototypes because it is autonomous. Once you have a CAD file, you can send it to a CNC machine, and fabrication will be done in a short time. These properties make it ideal for making prototypes.

  • Production

CNC machining has high precision and accuracy, which makes it ideal for making high-quality components. Its wide material supports also improves its use in parts fabrications.

Consequently, companies that use it to make prototypes also use it to create usable final parts.

  • Tooling

CNC machining is a gem in the direct manufacturing process and has been of immense help. However, it can also be used in the indirect manufacturing process to help in many processes, such as injection molding.

 Conclusion

The history of CNC machining is unique. It has developed more from the first CNC machine that required punch card to a software-based machine that requires little guidance. CNC machining is the top manufacturing process incorporated into many industries.

Make Selection Hardware Your First Choice for CNC Machining

CNC machining is an important part of major manufacturing processes. This is evident in its adoption by many industries and the companies that offer the service to people. When you choose us, you can get to enjoy many benefits including instant online quotation, Design for Manufacturing analysis, strong engineering support, etc.

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CNC Machining Materials: Choosing the Right Materials for CNC Machining Project

CNC machining materials

CNC machining is inarguably the lifeblood of the manufacturing industry with applications such as aerospace, medical devices, and electronics. In recent years, there have been incredible advancements in the field of CNC machining materials. Their wide portfolio now offers great combinations of material properties, cost, and aesthetics.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into the diversity of CNC materials. We will provide you with a comprehensive guide to selecting the right materials for CNC machining, including a detailed list of commonly used materials.

1.How to Choose the Best CNC Machining Material

Engineers are free to choose the best CNC material for their specific needs. Choosing the right material depends on several factors such as required strength, durability, surface finish and cost-effectiveness. Therefore, when selecting a CNC material, you must consider various factors to help you make an informed decision and ensure the success of your project.

Machining Environment

It is important to consider the machining environment when choosing CNC materials. Because different materials react differently to different machining conditions, such as cutting speed, tool material, and coolant.  The machining environment includes factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of contaminants. Therefore, taking into account the machining environment can help improve productivity, reduce costs, and ensure the quality of the finished product.

Part Weight

It is essential to consider part weight to ensure cost-effectiveness, performance, and manufacturability. Heavier parts require more material, which can increase the cost of production. Additionally, heavier parts may require larger and more powerful CNC machines to manufacture, which increases costs and production time. Therefore, choosing a material with a lower density, such as aluminum or magnesium, can help reduce the weight of the part and lower production costs.

Heat Resistance

Heat resistance directly impacts the material’s ability to withstand high temperatures without experiencing significant deformation or damage. During CNC machining process, the material being machined undergoes various heating and cooling cycles, particularly when it is being cut, drilled, or milled. These cycles can cause thermal expansion, warping, or cracking in materials that are not heat resistant.

Choosing CNC materials with good heat resistance can also help improve the machining process and reduce production costs. When a material can withstand high temperatures, it allows for faster cutting speeds and deeper cuts. This brings shorter machining times and reduced wear on tools.

Electrical Conductivity and Magnetic Requirements

In CNC machining, materials with high electrical conductivity are preferred because they can dissipate heat effectively. The heat generated during the process can cause the material to warp or deform. Materials with high electrical conductivity, such as copper and aluminum, can effectively dissipate heat, which helps to prevent these issues.

Magnetic properties are also important when choosing CNC materials.The materials have a strong magnetic field can affect the cutting process. Materials that are non-magnetic are preferred for CNC machining because they are not affected by the magnetic field and therefore produce a cleaner cut.

Hardness

When a CNC material is too hard, it can be difficult to cut or shape, which can result in excessive tool wear, tool breakage, or poor surface finish. Conversely, a material that is too soft may deform or deflect under the cutting force, resulting in poor dimensional accuracy or surface finish. Therefore, choosing a material for CNC machining with appropriate hardness is critical for achieving high-quality, precision machined components.

Surface Finish

The surface finish affects the final machined product’s performance and appearance. For example, a part with a rough surface finish may experience more friction, which can lead to premature wear and failure. On the other hand, a part with a smooth surface finish will have less friction, resulting in improved performance and a longer lifespan. Additionally, the surface finish also plays a significant role in the aesthetics. A polished surface finish can improve the appearance of a part and make it more appealing to customers.

  • Aesthetics

If your CNC machining project is intended to produce a product that will be used in a high-end retail setting, aesthetics would be a significant factor. The material must be visually appealing, with an attractive texture, color, and surface finish. It should also be capable of being easily polished, painted, or finished to achieve a desired look.

  • Application

The final application of the product is the ultimate decision-maker. The aforementioned factors make up a small portion of all the reasons one considers before finalizing a CNC material. Other application-driven factors can include practical concerns like material machinability, chemical reactivity, adhesiveness, material availability, fatigue life, etc.

  • Budget

Budget is an important factor to consider for several reasons. The material’s cost can significantly vary depending on the type and quantity required. While some high-grade metals may be costly, plastics or composites can be more affordable. Setting a budget for materials will help narrow down your options and focus on materials within your price range.

2.The Best Materials for CNC Machining Projects

Now, let us move on to the next part of our discussion: types of CNC machining materials. We will discuss in detail the regular metals and plastics. Later, we will shift our focus to some less well-known CNC materials.

1. Metal CNC Materials

Metals are the most common material among CNC machined parts. They offer a wide range of favorable properties such as high strength, hardness, thermal resistance, and electrical conductivity.

Aluminum (6061, 7075)

Aluminum is widely considered to be one of the most versatile and valuable materials in CNC machining. It has an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and striking silvery appearance,and easy to machine,which makes it a popular choice for manufacturers. The high-quality 6061 and 7075 grades of aluminum are particularly popular for use in aerospace frames, automotive engine parts, and lightweight sporting equipment.

Stainless Steel (316, 303, 304)

Stainless steel comes in numerous grades. Generally, though, it possesses high strength and toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, and has a shiny appearance like aluminum. Furthermore, it is among the mid-priced metals. However, it is a hard-to-machine CNC material due to its hardness.

l Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel

Carbon steel and related alloys offer excellent strength and machinability, making them ideal for use in many applications. They are also compatible with various heat treatment processes, further enhancing their mechanical properties. Moreover, carbon steel is relatively inexpensive compared to other CNC metals.

Brass

Brass is a versatile metal known for its excellent machinability, corrosion resistance, and thermal and electrical conductivity. It also boasts an attractive appearance thanks to its copper content, as well as excellent surface friction properties.

Brass finds numerous applications in various industries. For instance, it is commonly used in consumer products, low-strength fasteners, plumbing, and electrical devices. Its properties make it an ideal choice for manufacturing components that require durability and strength while retaining an aesthetic appeal.

Copper

Copper is renowned for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity.  However, it can be challenging to machine due to its high malleability. This can cause difficulties in generating chips during CNC machining. In addition, copper is prone to corrosion, which can be a concern in certain environments.

Titanium

Titanium alloys are known for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, making them lightweight and strong simultaneously. They are also corrosion-resistant and have good heat conductivity. Additionally, titanium is biocompatible, so they are suitable for biomedical applications.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a metal that combines strength with a low weight. Its excellent thermal properties make it ideal for use in high-temperature environments, such as in engines. Its lightweight nature allows for the production of lighter and more fuel-efficient vehicles. However, magnesium is also known for its flammability, which can make it a safety concern in certain applications. Additionally, it is not as corrosion-resistant as some other metals, such as aluminum, and can be more expensive to machine.

2.Plastic CNC Materials

We’ll now discuss CNC plastics. Although most plastic materials are not machinable due to their low rigidity and melting points, we have picked out the small group that has wide-ranging CNC applications.

  • Acetal (POM)

Acetal is a highly versatile CNC plastic with a range of desirable properties. It boasts excellent fatigue and impact resistance, decent toughness, and low friction coefficients. Besides, it is highly resistant to moisture, which makes it an excellent choice for use in damp environments.

  • Acrylic (PMMA)

Acrylic is a commonly used material that can serve as a substitute for glass due to its desirable properties. It has good rigidity and optical clarity, allowing it to be used in applications where see-through surfaces are necessary. Acrylic components offer an attractive and functional alternative to glass, with good optical clarity and a high degree of durability.

  • Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate (PC) is a popular plastic material used for CNC machining due to its unique set of properties.  It is highly transparent, making it an ideal material for use in products that require clarity, such as safety glasses, medical equipment, and electronic displays. Moreover, it has good heat resistance so it’s suitable for use in high-temperature applications.

  • Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is a versatile polymer with numerous benefits, including high chemical resistance and fatigue strength. It is also a medical-grade material, and it produces a smooth surface finish when CNC machining. However, one of its limitations is that it cannot withstand high temperatures, as it tends to soften and gall during cutting, which makes it slightly challenging to machine.

  • ABS

ABS is a highly cost-effective plastic material that is well-suited for CNC machining due to its excellent machinability, tensile strength, impact resistance, and chemical resistance. Moreover, it can be easily colored, making it ideal for applications where aesthetics are important. However, ABS is not suitable for use in high-heat environments and is non-biodegradable. Besides, it produces an unpleasant fume when burned, which can be a concern in a CNC shop.

  • Nylon

Nylon is a versatile material with excellent tensile strength, hardness, and impact resistance. It can be used in a variety of composite forms, such as glass-fiber-reinforced nylon, and has superb surface lubrication capabilities. However, it is not recommended for use in moist environments.

  • UHMW-PE

UHMWPE is a popular material due to its exceptional properties, including high hardness, abrasion and wear resistance and durability. However, its thermal instability during machining makes it challenging to machine.

3.Other Materials

CNC machining commonly uses metals and plastics, but it can also work with many other materials, including those listed below.

Foam

Foams are a type of CNC material that are characterized by a solid body with air-filled voids. This unique structure gives foams a recognizable shape and remarkable lightness. Certain high-density foams, such as polyurethane foam and Styrofoam, can be easily machined due to their rigidity, strength, lightweight, and durability.

Wood

Wood is a widely used material for CNC machining due to its ease of machining, good strength and hardness, and wide range of available types. In addition, wood is an organic compound and has no negative impact on the environment. Due to its versatility and aesthetic appeal, wood is a popular choice for furniture, home decor, and DIY projects. However, wood machining generates a large amount of dust, which can pose health risks to workers. Therefore, it’s important for wood machining workshops to have proper swarf management systems in place.

Composites

Composites are materials made up of two or more constituents that are joined together with a bonding medium. Common composite materials used in CNC machining include carbon fiber, plywood, fiberglass, and others. These materials have applications in diverse industries, such as automotive, aviation, sports, and medical.

As material science has advanced, CNC machining has become increasingly reliant on thoughtful materials selection. At Selection Hardware, we specialize in CNC machining services, including CNC milling and turning, and offer an extensive range of materials, from sought-after metals to high-quality plastics. We have rich experience and a professional team, so we have the ability to provide customers with high-precision and high-quality CNC hardware products.

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Metal Stamping

metal stamping

Metal stamping is a cold-forming process that makes use of dies and stamping presses to transform sheet metal into different shapes. Pieces of flat sheet metal, typically referred to as blanks, is fed into a sheet metal stamping press that uses a tool and die surface to form the metal into a new shape. Production facilities and metal fabricators offering stamping services will place the material to be stamped between die sections, where the use of pressure will shape and shear the material into the desired final shape for the product or component.

1：Basic Concepts of Metal Stamping:

Metal stamping, also referred to as pressing, is a low-cost high-speed manufacturing process that can produce a high volume of identical metal components. Stamping operations are suitable for both short or long production runs, and be conducted with other metal forming operations, and may consist of one or more of a series of more specific processes or techniques, such as: Punching, Blanking, Embossing, Coining, Bending, Flanging.

Metal stamping machines may do more than just stamping; they can cast, punch, cut and shape metal sheets. Machines can be programmed or computer numerically controlled (CNC) to offer high precision and repeatability for each stamped piece. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) and computer-aided design (CAD) programs ensure accuracy. Various tooling machines for the dies used in the stampings are available. Progressive, forming, compound, and carbide tooling perform specific stamping needs. Progressive dies can be used to create multiple pieces on a single piece simultaneously.

2：Types of Stamping Operations:

Progressive die stamping

Progressive die stamping uses a sequence of stamping stations. A metal coil is fed into a reciprocating stamping press with progressive stamping dies. The die moves with the press, and when the press moves down the die closes to stamp the metal and form the part. When the press moves up, the metal moves horizontally along to the next station. These movements must be precisely aligned as the part is still connected to the metal strip. The final station separates the newly-fabricated part from the rest of the metal. Progressive die stamping is ideal for long runs, because the dies last a long time without becoming damaged, and the process is highly repeatable. Each step in the process performs a different cut, bend, or punching operation on the metal, thus gradually achieving the desired end-product shape and design. It is also a faster process with a limited amount of wasted scrap.

 Transfer Die Stamping

Transfer die stamping is similar to progressive die stamping, but the part is separated from the metal trip early on in the process and is transferred from one stamping station to the next by another mechanical transport system, such as a conveyor belt. This process is usually used on larger parts that may need to be transferred to different presses.

 Four-Slide Stamping

Four-slide stamping is also called multi-slide or four-way stamping. This technique is best-suited for crafting complex components that have numerous bends or twists. It uses four sliding tools, instead of one vertical slide, to shape the workpiece through multiple deformations. Two slides, or rams, strike the workpiece horizontally to shape it, and no dies are used. Multi-slide stamping can also have more than four moving slides.

Four-slide stamping is a very versatile type of stamping, as different tools can be attached to each slide. It also has a relatively low cost, and production is fast.

 Fine Blanking

Fine blanking, also known as fine-edge blanking, is valuable for providing high accuracy and smooth edges. Usually done on a hydraulic or mechanical press, or by a combination of the two, fine blanking operations consist of three distinct movements:

1.Clamping of the workpiece or work material in place

2.Performance of the blanking operation

3.Ejection of the finished part

Fine blanking presses operate at higher pressures than those used in conventional stamping operations, hence tools and machinery need to be designed with these higher operating pressures in mind.

The edges that are produced from fine blanking avoid fractures as produced with conventional tooling and surface flatness can exceed that available from other stamping methods. Since it is a cold extrusion technique, fine blanking is a single-step process, reducing the overall costs of fabrication.

3：Types of Stamping Presses:

The three common types of stamping presses include mechanical, hydraulic, and mechanical servo technologies. Usually, presses are linked to an automatic feeder that sends sheet metal through the press either in coil or blank form.

Mechanical

Mechanical presses use a motor connected to a mechanical flywheel to transfer and store energy. Their punches can range in size from 5mm to 500mm, depending on the particular press. Mechanical pressing speed also varies, usually falling between the range of twenty and 1,500 strokes per minute, but they tend to be faster than hydraulic presses. These presses can be found in an array of sizes that stretch from twenty to 6,000 tons. They are well-suited for creating shallower and simpler parts from coils of sheet metal. They’re usually used for progressive and transfer stamping with large production runs.

Hydraulic

Hydraulic presses use pressurized hydraulic fluid to apply force to the material. Hydraulic pistons displace fluid with a force level proportional to the diameter of the piston head, allowing for an advanced degree of control over the amount of pressure, and a more consistent pressure than a mechanical press. Additionally, they feature adjustable stroke and speed capabilities, and can typically deliver full power during any point in the stroke. These presses usually vary in size from twenty to 10,000 tons and offer stroke sizes from about 10mm to 800mm.

Hydraulic presses are usually used for smaller production runs to create more complicated and deeper stampings than mechanical presses. They allow for more flexibility because of the adjustable stroke length and controlled pressure.

Mechanical Servo

Mechanical servo presses use high capacity motors instead of flywheels. They are used to create more complicated stampings at a faster speed than hydraulic presses. The stroke, slide position and motion, and the speed are controlled and programmable. They are powered by either a link-assisted drive system or a direct drive system. These presses are the most expensive of the three types discussed.

4：Applications:

Stamping is used in a variety of applications, especially those involving three-dimensional designs, lettering, or other surface engraving features. Such stamping products are commonly produced for home appliance manufacturers, automotive companies, the lighting industry, telecommunications services, military and defense, aerospace industries, medical equipment manufacturers, and electronics companies. Odds are you have a product in your home that has parts created through metal stamping because it is a process used in everything from your household appliances to your cars.


The specific products and components can range from simple stamping items, such as metal clips, springs, weights, washers, and brackets, to more complex designs, such as those found in engine bases or friction plates. This process is used for producing both parts for large machinery and also incredibly detailed small parts.  Micro-precision stamping can create parts with diameters of up to 0.002 inches.

Electronic stampings are electronic components manufactured through the metal stamping process. They are used in a variety of industries, from home electronics and appliances to telecommunications and aerospace. Electronic stampings are available in a number of metals, including copper, copper alloys, aluminum, and steel, as well as more expensive metals, such as platinum and gold. Electronic components produced by the metal stamping method include terminals, contacts, lead frames, springs, and pins. They can be created from ferrous or nonferrous materials. Metal stampings find wide use in computers, electronic equipment, and medical devices. Because of the specialized shapes that can be made by the various stamping processes, many electronics are made by this cold forming process.

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General situation and prospect of die casting market

The application of die castings is very wide, involving a considerable number of product areas and industrial categories. Die casting products are mainly automobile and motorcycle parts, followed by hardware, communications and other die castings. At present, the annual production of die castings in China is about 2.1 million tons, with aluminum alloy accounting for about 76%; Zinc alloy accounts for about 16%; Magnesium alloy accounts for 7%; Copper alloys are less than 1%.

The development of automobile market directly drives the development of die casting market. In the die casting market, the consumption of the automobile industry accounts for a considerable share. According to relevant statistics, in China, the proportion of the total volume of die castings supplied to the automobile industry has remained between 65% and 75% in recent years. As for the consumption of die castings in each car, if the consumption of aluminum alloy castings in each car is concerned, it will gradually increase. Relevant data shows that the average consumption of aluminum alloy castings per vehicle was 34KG in 1980 and 157KG in 2009, among which aluminum alloy die castings accounted for more than 65% of all aluminum castings. Zinc alloy, magnesium alloy and copper alloy die castings have also been widely used in the automotive industry.

In terms of the auto market itself, China’s auto market has developed rapidly in recent years. According to relevant data, in 2009, China’s auto production and sales exceeded 13 million, becoming the world’s largest auto production and sales country. In the first three quarters of 2010, China’s auto production and sales exceeded 13 million, approaching the production and sales of 2009. It is conservatively estimated that the auto production in 2010 will reach more than 17 million.

Although the automobile industry has made great progress, the annual ownership has reached more than 85 million vehicles, but it is only close to the current world average. Even if the car ownership reaches 150 million, it still cannot reach the level of Mexico in 2005, so the sustainable development of the automobile industry has an objective market demand potential.

In addition, the light weight of automobiles and the rise of new energy vehicles have also brought greater development space for the die casting industry.

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CNC machines: guide to numerical control

CNC machines

1. What is CNC

CNC (Computerized Numerical Control), or Computer Numerical Control in English, It is a widespread system in engineering to process materials and parts with minimal human intervention. The CNC technique derives from numerical control, an automated system for machine tools that are operated by means of commands through handwheels or levers. However, these machines have evolved and now allow their control through software and a computer in order to further automate the process and offer better performance.

The operation of these CNC systems is quite simple to understand. It is based on the machining of a piece through the use of coordinates that will specify the movement of the tool (cutting, drilling, milling, welding…). Similar to the operation of a 3D printer, which could also be understood as a CNC machine, only instead of machining, what it does is add layers of material to build a part.

And just like 3D printers, you can have multiple axes, like the X, Y and Z, being able to carry out longitudinal, vertical and transversal displacements respectively. Through some servomotors I stepper motors, the tool will be moved to the exact point indicated by the computer software, and the machining will be carried out quickly and with the highest precision.

Before the invention of the CNC, labor was required to handle the tools manually, but the possible failures they could commit affected quality, repeatability, costs and decreased production. For example, imagine an employee in an aluminum shop who wants to drill frames for a window. This task requires that:

  1. The operator picks up the piece.
  2. Put it on the work table.
  3. Put the appropriate bit in the drill.
  4. And drill.

This to make a single hole is not a problem, but imagine that hundreds or thousands of them need to be made to maintain a considerable production and in the shortest possible time, in addition to all the holes being the same. In that case, the workforce is not adequate, and that is where cnc machines brought great improvements to the industry. In this case, the steps would be:

  1. Make sure the machine is fed with material (sometimes they might even have automatic feeding).
  2. Start it with the necessary programming (it may be necessary only once and indicate the number of repetitions).
  3. And she will be in charge of making the perforations with precision and repeating them as many times as necessary, without the need for the operator to intervene.

In addition, can work faster than an operator and does not get tired, so all are advantages for the industry or workshop.

2. What are CNC machines and how does it work?

An CNC machine is a kind of machining machine operated by computer numerical control.. In this way, process automation is achieved by establishing precise coordinates for cutting, welding, milling, molding, grinding, placing parts, etc., of all kinds of materials, from soft ones such as polymers, foami, MDF, or wood, even harder such as marble, metal, rocks, etc.

Likewise, CNC machines allow for a sophisticated system of feedback that constantly monitors and adjusts the speed and position of the tools used for machining, without the need for such frequent manual maintenance. Even some more advanced ones have intelligent systems to detect problems, control the quality of the work or part, etc., or be interconnected if it is an industry 4.0.

It is important to note that some CNC machines they work differently:

  • point to point control: In this type of CNC machines, the start and end points of each path will be established.
  • paraxial control: in them it is possible to control the movement speed of the pieces.
  • interpolate control: they carry out machining in any way parallel to their axes.

3. What is a CNC machine made of?

When it comes to detailing the parts or components of a CNC machine, the following essential elements can be cited:

Input device

The word input device from a CNC machine to the system that is used to be able to load or modify the data for the machining process. For example, it can be a control panel, a touch screen, etc. That is, an interface to allow the machine operator to activate and control the machine.

Control unit or controller

Is digital electronic system which will be in charge of interpreting the entered data and generating a series of control signals to control the movement of the servomotors to move the work head through the axes and the tool so that they do exactly what the program entered by the user indicates .

Tools

La tool It is one of the most essential components, since it is the one that actually performs the machining, the one that is in contact with the piece that is being processed. It can be a multi-tool head, being able to carry out several different tasks, or also individual fixed or interchangeable tools. For example: drill bit, cutter, milling cutter, welding tip, etc.

In addition, it is important to note that there may be various types of CNC machines in terms of their type and number of axles:

  • 3 axes: are the most common, with an X, Y, and Z axis.
  • 4 axes: like some routers or CNC routers that add an A axis to the previous three. This allows the spindle to move from left to right to process three surfaces at the same time, being able to engrave flat or in 3D. They are ideal for carving wood, metals, complex patterns, etc.
  • rotary axis– It has a rotating spindle for the tool, which allows you to process four surfaces simultaneously. These types of machines are used for machining cylindrical parts, wooden statues, complex metal elements, etc.

Fastening or support system

Is place where the piece is anchored to carry out the machining process without it moving. Depending on the system, it could be of different types, with or without anchors. In addition, some need extras, such as dust collection systems, or water jet cutting, which would require a water tank or reservoir to collect and dissipate the force of the jet once it passes through the part.

These systems are often called also bed or table. Many of them are usually made of materials such as aluminium, when the pieces need to be attached to the table, to process cylinders or complex shapes. Instead, the vacuum bed or table will vacuum the part without clamping it, allowing for a higher degree of precision, less agitation during use, and a greater degree of freedom.

Feedback devices (servomotors)

There are only these types of devices. feedback on CNC machines that use servo motors. In the others it is not necessary.

Monitor

In addition to all of the above, there may also be a information or monitoring system of the machining process itself. This can be through the same interface from which it is operated or independently.

Other parts

In addition to the above, it should be noted two essential elements plus:

  • Engines: are the devices that move or activate the machining tool according to the data received from the control unit.
  • Servo: tolerates high speeds, so you can cut, drill, etc. Ideal for quiet, stable work, and for intricate patterns.
  • Stepper: These stepper motors are priced lower, but are used for more basic engraving or movement. They are easy to control, reliable and highly accurate, making them suitable where maximum precision is needed.
  • Spindle: This element of a CNC machine can have two types of possible cooling or cooling system: By air: They are cooled simply by a fan that cools the spindle, and are cheaper, easier to maintain and use； By water: They use water for cooling. It is more expensive, complex, and difficult to maintain, but it generally lasts longer, is more efficient, and is quieter.

 

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