CNC machines are one of the driving factors in the next industrial revolution, transforming the way we work, what we make, and how we do it. It’s the process of using computer numeric controls to manufacture parts, and the parts produced are more precise than most other manufacturing methods because they increase accuracy and efficiency while decreasing labor-related costs. This method of engineering has been around for over 50 years and has since become the most popular form of machining. Here’s what you need to know about CNCs for precision engineering.
How does it work?
Here’s the thing. Many of us associate machining as a traditional industry that requires metal bender machinery. Precision engineering, on the other hand, requires the latest computer-based machinery. CNC’s (Computer Numerical Controls) use a computer system, programmable cams, lathes, and more to move and cut metal into specific shapes and sizes. These machines can cut nearly any shape using a computer, and some systems are able to see the manufacturing process before it happens. They use robots and machines in complex environments to come up with the perfect design and then a laser to cut through the material. Each piece of metal used in the process is manufactured and marked with a unique code. A worker can use this code to take the part they want to produce and place it on the machine to cut it out again. This process helps increase the precision for an assembly-line of final products.
These cutting-edge machining devices allow you to cut, shape and weld together virtually any metal part, including plastic and glass. All you need is an idea, a CNC machine and a CNC operator (Engineer.)
Why CNC Precision Engineering Matters
Well, it’s simple really. This process makes goods faster, easier, more precise parts, and allows for nearly limitless productivity in every aspect of product design. It has the potential to save time and money on both design and manufacturing. According to a recent study, 72% of survey respondents said they would consider using CNCs if they could reduce their cycle time by at least 50%. The machines of today can automate the first step of the production making it an easier process. It used to take about 10-20 hours to get an exact machined part in the mold.
CNC is not just for the automotive industry, either. Although this type of precision work is usually done by highly skilled operators using lots of expertise, the possibilities extend far beyond that. For instance, they can be used to manufacture power generation equipment, food production equipment, aerospace parts, and even wearable tools.
The Benefits of CNC Precision Engineering
Most machining is done with machining centers and there are many reasons for this. But one of the key factors is that this method of production is more accurate and efficient because the machine is controlled with more precision. Instead of working with and moving a sheet of material, you can move the tool to set and place the material within a fixed-line. This makes machining more efficient and allows you to reduce the chance of mistakes and damages to the product.
Accuracy and efficiency
CNC machines are able to get precise tolerances. This is usually a direct result of the way their workpiece is positioned and moved around during the process. These machines are used for industries where fine precision is needed, such as architecture, woodworking, and electronics. These production environments benefit from the fact that:
It’s a Faster tool
The CNC machine speed is largely determined by the number of spindles or heads that are inside it. The faster the CNC machine operates, the more parts it can produce. This makes it suitable for small, quick projects that would be impossible to produce using other methods.
It lowers manufacturing costs
With each single machine costing thousands of dollars and used in some capacity by numerous companies, the CNC precision engineering machine is an obvious choice for cost-cutting.
Labor-related costs
Unlike traditional manufacturing methods, CNC machining is automated but in the early days, CNC machining was extremely expensive. It would require a massive team of engineers and skilled machinists and could take up to a day to machine a small part and an even longer time to layout a part and smooth out rough edges. But recent technological advances have made the time and cost associated with a CNC job almost comparable to any other manufacturing method. And it’s no surprise why. Today it requires fewer man-hours to produce a large-scale CNC machined product, cutting the manufacturing time in half.
Applications for Industries
Traditionally, machining was a time-consuming, hands-on process for skilled operators. They would manually feed material into the machines, measure and construct components, then put them through the machine to finish the work. Technology has changed this entire process because modern machines are much more productive than their human counterparts. Machining with CNCs provides significant benefits in virtually every industry. From the automobile industry to the medical industry, CNCs have made a massive impact on everyday life. Every vehicle is made with this technology, as are airplanes, watches, robots, even parts of the human body.
Learning curve for machinists
Like most new technology, there is a learning curve. It is not possible for everyone to become a precision machinist overnight. The difference between a CNC and a traditional machinist is that CNC machines are “programmable” while traditional machines are not. Precision machines are able to perform complex tasks and are capable of becoming faster and more accurate the more you become adept at setting their functions.
For this reason, most CNC machinists only set these programs once they are working with the machine. You must become comfortable with setting up the tooling to put the parts through the operation. The most popular machines are the milling machines. These machines are capable of milling a wide variety of metal, plastic and composite
Conclusion
Automation is one of the most talked about topics in our industrial revolution. Digital technologies have transformed the way we work, the way we create and how we can interact with each other. Not only are we making the same things on computer a lot faster, we are also making the same things a lot better.
Automation has the potential to make the world of work a lot more efficient and more creative. Manufacturers are always on the lookout for ways to make their processes more efficient and better for their customers.
If you’re looking for CNC Precision Engineering Services In Leicester then give us a call.
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