One of the most commonly used manufacturing processes right now is Custom CNC. It is used in a variety of industries and has gained steady popularity since it was first introduced in the 60s. It has become one of the main kinds of manufacturing used in commercial and industrial applications. If you are new to CNC machining or only just learning about its full potential, this post is for you. In it, we are going to discuss some of its best and biggest benefits and main applications.
First, What is CNC Machining?
CNC Machining is short for Computer Numerical Control and involves the use of computers to operate machinery and tools in the manufacturing of various products. The most common kinds of tools used in CNC are lathes, grinders, routers, and mills. To operate these machines, you need specially designed consoles and software.
A customized program needs to be designed to enable the computer to design the products you are looking to machine. You use computers programmed using G-code, a computer language used exclusively for CNC. With this language you not only can you operate the machines, but also adjust different aspects such as velocity, tool positioning, feed rate, speed and a lot more. CNC is used in the creation of plastic and metallic components and parts.
CNC Machining Benefits
There are various benefits to using CNC machining for users and customers too, including:
Repeatability
Once you have given a computer design, the CNC machine will be able to repeat the same process to create the product again and again. Regardless of how many times you do it, you will always get the same level of intricacy and precision.
Variety of Materials
You can use CNC machining to manufacture products from various materials, such as silver, gold, aluminum, steel, and bronze. PTFE, polycarbonate, and ABS along with many other polymers can be used too.
Precise Machining of Components
When you are performing CNC machining for products, regardless of application, CAD or computer-aided design software is used to first create 3D designs of the final product. These designs are fed into a computer connected to the CNC machine and using them the machine can cut away at the material used to produce the final product to very precise measurements. CNC machining is also perfect for creating highly complicated shapes without taking too long.
Applications of CNC Machining
There are a wide variety of applications for CNC machining, especially within the industrial sector, including:
- Components for print engines
- Fixtures, molds, and dies
- Bushings
- Manifolds
- Fittings
- Spacers
- Shafts
As you can see, CNC machining is an incredibly precise and versatile form of manufacturing that can be used not just in an industrial setting, but also in automotive manufacturing as well as many other kinds. It can save money, time and effort and means that your company can produce things to a high standard, every time, without fail or error.
