MACHINING PROCESS OF CNC MACHINES, WORKING PRINCIPLE, HOW CNC LATHE WORKS?
What is CNC Lathe?
CNC Lathe is a system in which the written code controls the manufacturing. The code determines everything from part movement to spindle speed. CNC stands for computer control. The first CNC Machines were produced in the 1940s. But over the years CNC machines have changed and improved. The expression CNC consists of the initials of the words Computer Numeric Control.
Unlike other lathes, CNC Lathes make mass production with NC programs sent to the computerized control unit.
Today's CNC Machines are fully automatic. What they need are files with instructions for cutting trajectories and tools. These files consist of digital commands.
There are various varieties and levels of complexity of CNC machines. Some machines can hold multiple tools at once or run along the X, Y, and Z axes to remove excess material from any side or any angle.
MACHINING PROCESS OF CNC MACHINES
Different CNC machining equipment can handle different tools, capabilities, and operations. The CNC machining process typically includes these general steps:
1) Designing the CAD Model
CNC machining process manufacturers are required to create the product. Computer-aided design (CAD) SOFTWARE can be used to create 2D AND 3D models. CAD software calculates the characteristics of the machining process and the type of material. This will identify potential problems. CAD software avoids many errors and helps prototyping.
2) Converting CAD Files to Usable CNC Instructions
After the design is complete, the CAD files are run with computer aided manufacturing (CAM) software. These programs are the necessary program code for guiding the tools during the manufacturing process. This software also extracts the necessary information to ensure the correct size of the workpiece.
Machine tools consist of programming languages such as G Code and M Code. G-code operations focus on parts such as their speed, direction of motion. M code operations focus on opening, closing.
3) Preparation of CNC Machine
Human operators play a much smaller role in automated production than in manual production, but still perform important operations that the machine cannot manage.
Uploading the CNC program file to the machine
Attaching the workpiece to machine spindles or vices
Installing specified machining tools
Inspecting the work area, machine and workpiece
4) Managing the Operation
The equipment is prepared. When the program starts, the CNC machining equipment performs the steps and machining operations on the workpiece. The program is complete from start to finish without further operator input. After the instructions are completed, part finishing and packaging continues.
