Definition
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) engineering is a computer-aided procedure used in the manufacturing sector. The purpose of CNC engineering is processing metals with the use of machine tools that perform precise cutting, controlled by a computer. The most common tools that are used for performing such complex operations are grinders, mills, routers and lathes. Each tool has a specific role in different CNC processing methods such as milling, turning, drilling, etc.
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) engineering is a computer-aided procedure used in the manufacturing sector. The purpose of CNC engineering is processing metals with the use of machine tools that perform precise cutting, controlled by a computer. The most common tools that are used for performing such complex operations are grinders, mills, routers and lathes. Each tool has a specific role in different CNC processing methods such as milling, turning, drilling, etc.
CNC Engineering Working Principle
CNC engineering is not a simple PC controlled operation. In fact, what distinguishes this procedure from the other computer controlled metal processing procedures, is the conjunction of an unique software and control console that coordinate and control the movements of the CNC machine. These two specific features enable efficient and precise processing of various materials including: metal, ceramic, plastic, wood and composites.
G-code is a term used for the CNC engineering language with which the CNC machines are programmed for performing specific task. It is this machining language that controls the features of the set of movements that the machine performs such as: speed, location, feed rate and coordination.
Each CNC engineering procedure starts with creating a CAD drawing. CAD stands for computer-aided design, which indicates that the design of the shapes of the material to be processed are designed and drawn on-screen with special computer software. The drawings that determine how the object will appear and function can be 2D two-dimensional or 3D three dimensional.
After the final form of the CAD drawing is received, the following step is creating a G-code that the CNC machine used in the procedure will understand. Before running the programmed CNC engineering method, the program is tested. The purpose of the testing of the program is to ensure that there no problem will arise during the execution of the program.
Performing a testing run, also known as “cutting air” is of crucial importance for gaining a successful outcome of the procedure, because it helps in the prevention of potential mistakes regarding the speed and the position of the tool. Most common mistakes that happen in such situations are scraping part of the material or damaging the machine. After ensuring that everything functions as desired, the procedure is performed.
CNC engineering is not a simple PC controlled operation. In fact, what distinguishes this procedure from the other computer controlled metal processing procedures, is the conjunction of an unique software and control console that coordinate and control the movements of the CNC machine. These two specific features enable efficient and precise processing of various materials including: metal, ceramic, plastic, wood and composites.
G-code is a term used for the CNC engineering language with which the CNC machines are programmed for performing specific task. It is this machining language that controls the features of the set of movements that the machine performs such as: speed, location, feed rate and coordination.
Each CNC engineering procedure starts with creating a CAD drawing. CAD stands for computer-aided design, which indicates that the design of the shapes of the material to be processed are designed and drawn on-screen with special computer software. The drawings that determine how the object will appear and function can be 2D two-dimensional or 3D three dimensional.
After the final form of the CAD drawing is received, the following step is creating a G-code that the CNC machine used in the procedure will understand. Before running the programmed CNC engineering method, the program is tested. The purpose of the testing of the program is to ensure that there no problem will arise during the execution of the program.
Performing a testing run, also known as “cutting air” is of crucial importance for gaining a successful outcome of the procedure, because it helps in the prevention of potential mistakes regarding the speed and the position of the tool. Most common mistakes that happen in such situations are scraping part of the material or damaging the machine. After ensuring that everything functions as desired, the procedure is performed.
Advantages Of CNC Engineering
- Faster Production Rate
After the designing the desired shape and dimension of the forms to be cut, the CNC machine requires minimal supervision and maintenance. This contributes to significant increase in the production rate. - Low Manufacturing Costs
Due to the fact that for a CNC engineering procedure, which features high turnover speed, minimal manual labour is required, we can with no doubt say that this is cost-efficient method.
- High Level of Consistency
Regardless of the number of products you plan to yield, this precise procedure ensured uniform production and high level of consistency in terms of design.