CNC machining is an automated machining technology that uses computer-controlled machine tools to perform precision machining operations. It controls the relative movement between the tool of the machine tool and the object to be processed by inputting the processing graphics or processing program made by CAD software or CAM software into the CNC machine tool controller, so as to realize high-precision processing of the object.
With CNC machining technology, the machining process and results can be precisely controlled to produce high-quality and accurate parts and products. Common CNC machining equipment includes CNC lathes, CNC milling machines, CNC grinding machines, etc.
The development history of CNC machining
CNC machining technology originated in the late 1950s, when the Massachusetts Institute of Technology manufactured the original CNC equipment for machine tools. By the end of the 1960s, with the popularization of computer technology and the application of large-scale integrated circuits, CNC machine tool equipment has been mass-produced and widely used.
From the late 1970s to the early 1980s, with the emergence of microprocessor technology, CNC machine tools began to develop into non-traditional technologies such as five-axis three-dimensional machining centers, wire cutting machining (WEDM), and electric discharge machining (EDM).
In the early 1990s, the application of high-speed cutting technology and ultra-precision machining technology greatly improved processing efficiency and industrial level. In recent years, with the development of intelligence, networking and digitization, CNC machine tools have been developed more comprehensively and finely.
In the future, with the development and application of artificial intelligence, CNC machine tools will have wider and deeper applications, providing strong support for the realization of industrial intelligence and high-quality manufacturing.
The advantages of CNC machining
1. Efficiency
CNC machining has efficient production capacity and significant cost savings. Once the machines are programmed, they can operate autonomously for hours or even days without human intervention. This can greatly shorten the product production cycle, reduce labor costs, and improve efficiency.
2. Accuracy
CNC machining has the characteristics of high precision, so it is especially suitable for the manufacture of parts with high precision requirements. Compared with traditional manufacturing methods, computer numerical control machining can easily achieve difficult precision requirements.
3. Repeatability
CNC machining tools are controlled using a computer program and are reusable. Therefore, the size and shape of CNC machined parts can be kept consistent.
4. Flexibility
The flexibility of CNC machining enables manufacturers to easily change product designs as needed and effectively respond to changes in market demand.
5. Visualization
Through 3D model programming using CAM/CAD software, the CNC machining process can be visualized. This way the designer can better understand how to render or adjust the manufacturing process of the product.
6. Non-Hazardous
CNC machining eliminates the risk of manufacturing hazardous items, unlike traditional machining methods that can cause technicians, unlike traditional machining methods that can cause cutting injuries to technicians.
Applications of CNC machining
1. Automotive manufacturing
Manufacture of auto parts such as brake pads, engines, wheels, etc.
2. Aerospace
Manufacturing parts for aircraft, rockets, satellites, etc., such as engines, hydraulic systems, missile fuselages, etc.
3. Electronics manufacturing
Manufacture electronic product parts such as connectors, chips, circuit boards, etc.
4. Robot manufacturing
Make parts for robots, such as gearboxes, bearings, motors, etc.
5. Medical devices
Manufacture of medical device parts such as cochlear implants, heart stents, artificial bones, etc.
6. Steel manufacturing
Used to manufacture parts of large machinery and equipment, such as railroad locomotives, loaders, excavators, etc.
7. Construction
Parts are used to build large buildings, such as steel structures, bridges, dams, etc.
8. Precision processing
Used in the manufacture of high-precision parts, such as watch parts, optical instruments, molds, etc.
9. Art manufacturing
Parts for manufacturing artworks, such as carving, sculpture, sports trophies, etc.
10. Toy manufacturing
Parts for manufacturing children’s toys, such as models, idols, assembled toys, etc.
Common processing methods of CNC machining
1. Milling processing
Using a milling cutter to perform a rotary motion along the surface or edge of the workpiece, the rotary speed can reach thousands of revolutions per minute. In this case, the excess material is trimmed away to form the workpiece of the desired shape.
2. Drilling process
Using a drill to drill or open holes in the workpiece, which can be used to make threaded holes, chamfering at the bottom of the holes, etc.
3. Turning
Using the rotary motion of the turning tool along the axis of the workpiece, the excess material is removed to form the workpiece of the required shape.
4. Electric discharge machining
EDM is a machining technique that uses electrical discharges to remove metal materials. The process involves placing the workpiece and the electrode in an isolated liquid medium, transmitting current to the workpiece through a high-voltage electric field, generating electric sparks, and causing the metal particles to burn and fall off, thereby processing the material. This process may require multiple discharges To be done.
5. Grinding process
The CNC grinding process uses computer numerical control technology for high-precision grinding. The process includes the following steps: extracting design graphics from computer models, passing through pre-processing, processing and post-processing stages, and finally using equipment such as CNC grinding machines to manufacture high-precision parts or perform mirror grinding.
Skills required for CNC machining
1. CAD design skills
Have the ability to use computer-aided design software for CAD drawing, and be proficient in dimensioning and drawing methods.
2. CAM programming skills
Ability to use CAM software to program parts, including machining parameter settings, tool path optimization, cutting path design, etc.
3. Basic knowledge of machining
Knowledge of the principles of machining, machining process flow, machining tools, machining parameters and machining materials.
4. Basic knowledge of the CNC system
Master the programming language, basic operation, and instruction format of the CNC system, and be able to debug and maintain the CNC machining.
5. Machining quality control skills
Be able to monitor and control the machining process, and master the skills of inspection, measurement and quality assessment, to ensure the quality of machining. To be able to ensure the quality of machining.
6. Tool and fixture selection and use skills
Possess the ability to select suitable tools and fixtures according to the characteristics of the workpiece to be processed, and master the usage methods and precautions proficiently.
7. Process improvement skills
To improve machining efficiency and quality, we need to be able to continuously adjust factors such as cutting paths, machining parameters, and tool selection. This allows for a more efficient machining process and a significant improvement in the quality of the machined product.
8. Safety management skills
Master machine tool operation safety regulations, emergency response measures, and safe operating procedures to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment during processing. At the same time, pay attention to safe operation skills and strictly abide by the safety procedures.
The market prospect of CNC machining
With the continuous development of automation, intelligence, and digitization, people’s demand for high-efficiency, high-precision, and high-quality manufacturing is becoming stronger and stronger. With the continuous development of intelligence, automation, and digitization, people’s demand for high-efficiency, high-precision, and high-quality manufacturing is becoming stronger and stronger.
1. Growing demand
With the development of various industries, the demand for high-quality, high-precision and high-efficiency CNC machining is becoming stronger and stronger. Especially in aviation, automobile, shipbuilding, machinery, electronics and other manufacturing industries, CNC machining has been widely used and promoted. It is expected that the demand in the CNC machining market will continue to grow in the next few years.
2. Technology and equipment to improve
CNC processing technology and equipment are continuously improved and improved, including quality, precision, efficiency, speed, etc. With great progress, great progress has been made in efficiency, etc., making CNC processing more intelligent, automated and efficient to meet the growing needs of customers, so the CNC processing market will be more prosperous.
3. Cost-effectiveness
Due to the high degree of automation of CNC processing and the greatly improved production efficiency, its cost is much lower than that of traditional processing methods, and it has a very superior cost performance. With the popularization of CNC processing equipment, more and more customers will choose CNC processing, and the market scale continues to expand. Therefore, CNC processing has become one of the most sought-after processing methods.
4. Market share increase
With the continuous evolution of CAM/CAD technology and software, the market share of CNC machining in the manufacturing industry continues to rise. It is predicted that its market size will still show a steady growth trend in the next few years. Therefore, the CNC machining market has broad prospects and contains huge development opportunities and potential.
