Computer Numerical Control

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CNC Machines

What is a CNC Machine? CNC stands for Computer Numeric Control. Sounds complicated, but it isn’t. Years ago, it was just NC, or Numeric Control. Since, they’ve added computers to control the machine.

In the simplest of terms, think of a drill press. It’s a machine that drills holes. But before you can drill the hole, you have to loosen the chuck, install the correct drill bit, drill the hole in the correct place, turn off the drill, and remove the drill bit. Manually, this could be time consuming and cause fatigue over the course of numerous parts. This is a simple example, but throw in some lathe or milling machining and you have a greater chance for error.

With the CNC machine, all of this drilling can be done automatically instead of the manual process listed above. Machining has to be precise, and whether you use a CNC lathe or milling machine, you have to make sure the part is right. The computer takes a lot of the guesswork out of the machining of these parts. In fact, a CNC programmer can sometimes get bored watching the machine do all the work.

But there is more programming for the machine than you would think. The operator has to enter a set of instructions. The programming uses about 50 words and tells the machine how fast, how deep, and location for machining.

What can you do with a CNC machine? In manufacturing, you can use this tool for milling, drilling, reaming, boring and counter boring. You can also groove and thread parts in a CNC turning center. You may have several setups including CNC lathes, CNC drill and tap area, CNC milling, or even CNC grinding.

EDM (electrical discharge machining) can also take advantage of CNC operations. EDM can be either vertical or wire. A vertical EDM machine uses an electrode to make a cavity for a plastic injection-molding machine. A wire EDM machine uses a wire to cut metal for a tooling operation for fabrication. EDM is more closely related to making tooling for other machines, people often overlook the use of CNC with these machines.

CNC machines can also be used with routers in the wood industry. CNC can also be used with lettering and engraving.

I hope this gave you some basic information about what a CNC machine is and what they are used for.

Stuart Simpson

http://www.cnc-machine-review.com

About CNC Controllers

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CNC controllers are devices that control machines and processes. They range in capability from simple point-to-point linear control to highly complex algorithms that involve multiple axes of control. CNC controllers can be used to control various types of machine shop equipment. These include horizontal mills, vertical mills, lathes and turning centers, grinders, electro discharge machines (EDM), welding machines, and inspection machines. The number of axes controlled by CNC controllers can range anywhere from one to five, with some CNC controllers configured to control greater than six axes. Mounting types for CNC controllers include board, stand alone, desktop, pendant, pedestal, and rack mount. Some units may have integral displays, touch screen displays, and keypads for control and programming.

Industrial communications options for CNC controllers include ARCNet, CANBus, ControlNET, Data Highway Plus, DeviceNet, Ethernet 10/100 Base-T, parallel, PROFIBUS, SERCOS, Universal Serial Bus (USB), serial (RS232, RS422, RS485), and web-enabled. Communications language choices include bitmap, conversational, DXF file, G/M codes, Hewlett Packard graphics language, and ladder logic. A bit map (often spelled "bitmap") defines a display space and the color for each pixel or "bit" in the display space. Conversational language is a higher level, easy to learn programming tool. It performs the same functions as the standard G-code commands. Drawing eXchange Format (DXF) file that was created as a standard to freely exchange 2 and 3 dimensional drawings between different CAD programs. It basically represents a shape as a wire frame mesh of x, y, z coordinates. G-code is the programming language for the Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machine tools that can be downloaded to the controller to operate the machine. M-code is the standard machine tool codes that are normally used to switch on the spindle, coolant or auxiliary devices. Hewlett Packard Graphical Language (HPGL) was originally created to send 2 dimensional drawing information to pen plotters, but has since become a good standard for the exchange of 2 dimensional drawing information between CAD programs. Ladder logic is a programming language used to program programmable logic controllers (PLC). This graphical language closely resembles electrical relay logic diagrams.

CNC controllers have several choices for operation. These include polar coordinate command, cutter compensation, linear and circular interpolation, stored pitch error, helical interpolation, canned cycles, rigid tapping, and auto-scaling. Polar coordinate command is a numerical control system in which all the coordinates are referred to a certain pole. The position is defined by the polar radius and polar angle. Cutter compensation is the distance you want the CNC control to offset for the tool radius away from the programmed path. Linear and circular interpolation is the programmed path of the machine, which appears to be straight or curved, but is actually a series of very small steps along that path. Machine precision can be remarkably improved through such features as stored pitch error compensation, which corrects for lead screw pitch error and other mechanical positioning errors. Helical interpolation is a technique used to make large diameter holes in workpieces. It allows for high metal removal rates with a minimum of tool wear. There are machine routines like drilling, deep drilling, reaming, tapping, boring, etc. that involve a series of machine operations but are specified by a single G-code with appropriate parameters. Rigid tapping is a CNC tapping feature where the tap is fed into the work piece at the precise rate needed for a perfect tapped hole. It also needs to retract at the same precise rate otherwise it will shave the hole and create an out of spec tapped hole. Auto scaling translates the parameters of the CNC program to fit the work piece.

Features common to CNC controllers include alarm and event monitoring, behind tape reader, diskette floppy storage, tape storage, zip disk storage, multi-program storage, self diagnostics, simultaneous control, tape reader, and teach mode.

http://www.cnc-academy.com/cnc-programming-articles/cnc-programming-articles.htm

CNC Programming Tips the Professional Way

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When a program is completed and sent to the Computer Numerical Control Machine, the programming process is over. All calculations were made and the algorithm fully written. But the question is the programmer’s job really finished? When is the programmer’s responsibility really over? And how can we evaluate the type of program that the Computer Numerical Control Machine programmer did?

The fairest and reasonable answer to those questions would basically when a part has been machined under the most optimized working conditions. Therefore the Programmer’s responsibility does not end after he or she finishes the program. We could say that the program at this stage is still very much in the development process, because most of the programming considerations were based on certain assumptions and there are a lot of external factors that may affect the outcome of the product.

Every Computer Numerical Control programmer should have an effort to be in the touch with the actual production. In the field of software development, Constant communication with your colleagues as well as actual machine operators of the CNC will help you to improve your own program. Because most of the time the CNC machine operators are a good source of constructive ideas, improvements and suggestions.

A good CNC programmer should talk, ask questions to them and most importantly listen to what they have to say. Programmers who never put their foot in the actual machining process and think they are always right are all on the wrong track. Exchanging ideas with CNC machine operators, asking questions and seeking answers is the only way to be fully aware of what is going on in the machine.

Whenever you start a Computer Numerical Control Program the first time it is important to check its Program Integrity. A new and unproved program is a potential source of problems. During Manual Programming in CNC, mistakes are more common than when the program is made in a CAM program.

A good way to look at a new program is through the machine operator’s perspective. Experienced Machine Operators take a direct approach when running a program for the first time. That means that they wont take any chances of mistakes with the actual running of a program therefore a good programmer must take note of any comments that the Machine operator will say about the program.

What does an experienced Machine Operator look for in a new part of a program? Most of the Machine operators would say that the first and most important thing to be checked on a Computer Numerical Control Program is its consistency. Therefore a machine operator looks at how a CNC programmer does its own programming, is the way you create your own algorithms the same as the other ones. Machine Operators take note with this kind of Information.

Upgrading your CNC Program

Whenever you upgrade your own program, it means that you are strengthening or enriching it, therefore making it better than it was before. Upgrading would be based on this standard, It is to decrease the production cost without compromising the quality of the part being manufactured or the safety of the Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator.

One of the Most Common forms of Program Optimization is doing some minor changes to the spindle as well as the feed rates of the machines. This process is called cycle time optimization, slightly increasing the spindle speed and feed rates of these machines will decrease the time it takes to finish the part.

And when we compare it to mass production, saving one second for each part in a batch of 3600 pieces would mean an hour saved. Efficiency in the rate of production is a very important aspect in Mass Production.

What to Look for in a Cnc Manufacturer

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A CNC manufacturer is your ultimate source of an efficient CNC machine. If you want to benefit from the best make sure that you find a good manufacturer.

Most of the manufacturing companies are busy employing CNC or compute numerical control technology in their production processes for enhanced effect. The integration of CNC in a production unit is a great way to enhance the flexibility and performance of CAD or computer aided design

and CAM (computer aided manufacturing) chain. Hence, there is also a greater effect on the competitive levels of such companies.

When compared, the hardware capacities of CNC systems have significantly improved in the last few decades. This is not all. The software elements have also been upgraded effectively in order to facilitate the enhancement seen on the latest line of CNC machines.

The passive approach adopted by most of the CNC manufacturers, these days has resulted in a lot of incompatibilities among varied CAM, CAD and CAM solutions available in the industry for the customers.

Hence, it is very important to opt for a machine coming from a CNC manufacturer that abide by all the industry standards and believe in providing the latest that’s available under the category of these machines.

Here are some of the considerations you need to keep in mind when deciding on a CNC manufacturer to purchase the best machine available for the job:

Quality: The quality of a CNC machine is of utmost importance. Make sure that the CNC manufacturer put in all possible efforts to make sure that the machine is delivered to a client in impeccable condition. There should be a sure shot guarantee for quality. The CNC manufacturer needs to follow all the quality control regulations set by the industry and keeps up to national and global standards. You need to check out that the manufacturing materials are tested to perfection and exactly match industry standards. The process of manufacture must also take place under strict and expert supervision of experienced technicians. The finished products need to go through an analysis phase to detect any existing faults.

Infrastructure: The infrastructure of a CNC making machines speaks volumes about the quality of the machine. The infrastructure should incorporate experienced technicians, many workers and finest of machinery. The warehouse of the CNC manufacturing company should be efficacious enough to store a huge amount of products according to the requirements of the clients.

Clientele: The clientele a CNC manufacturer holds will also tell you a lot about the quality of machine he sells to the customers. You must ask for some of their existing and valued clients. If possible, you need to ask for some references. This will provide you an idea of people’s review about the CNC machines.

Following and keeping mind all the tips mentioned above will let you find out a CNC manufacturer who provides the best and most efficient machines for your business.

We have combined a great deal of information into one complete site about CNC or computer numerical control. Visit our site today for all your CNC related inquiries including CNC manufacturers. http://www.computer-numericalcontrol.com/

Cnc Shop, Water Jet Cutting Machines, Granite Bridge Saw

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CNC Machines, Water jet Cutting machines and Granite Bridge Saw are getting very popular machineries in today’s industrial world. These are most effective, cost effective and fastest growing method to cut materials.

CNC Machines technology is one of the new emerging technologies used in metal industry. The introduction of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines has made a great impact on the manufacturing industry. These are very useful as can help to cut curves as a straight line; Complex 3-D structure can be produce and thus reduced the human actions. This is one of the reasons so that CNC Shop are getting so popular and helpful. It gives more flexibility in holding the parts in manufacturing and to change the machine to produce different components.
CNC machine has the functions of milling, grinding, polishing and sculpting.
It is especially suitable for producing high grade basin board and other abnormal products
Made of stone, ceramic, glass and micro-crystal stone. The machine will automatically
finish the processing of any required profile by simple setting. The products are of high precision and good glossiness rate.

One more example of same type of tool is Water jet cutting Machines, which are capable of slicing into metal or materials with high velocity and pressure. It is often used for both fabrication and manufacture of parts for machinery and some other devices.
Water jets can be used to cut materials as diverse as fish sticks, 'gas station' sandwiches, and titanium. But still there are some materials that cannot be effectively cut with a water jet cutter like, tempered glass, which shatters when cut, regardless of the cutting technology used.

Water jet cutting technology is the most efficient, cost effective and fastest growing method to cut materials. Due to its versatility and ease of operation, fabricators are quickly realizing the vast potential of these machines. Water jets (or abrasivejets) can cut virtually any material in any shape with no heat distortion or mechanical stress usually caused by other methods.

Granite Bridge Saw are also getting very useful for industrial uses. Bridge Saws also include different varieties for the different purposes in Small laboratories or industries as Marble and granite bridge cutter, diamond saw machine into rails, electronic bridge shape sawing machine, Compactness and sturdiness etc.

Marble Services Co. has contracted with many corporations, businesses and residents to perform hundreds of restoration and refinishing projects, both large and small. Following the Northridge Earthquake we restored many damaged marble statues and stonework, in many cases masking any evidence of damage.

For more details please visit http://www.marbleservices.com/

By: webmaster12

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For more details please visit www.marbleservices.com/

Computer Aided Manufacturing Applications

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Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) refers to an automation process, which accurately converts product design and drawing or the object into a code format, readable by the machine to manufacture the product. Computer aided manufacturing complements the computer aided design (CAD) systems to offer a wide range of applications in different manufacturing fields. CAM evolved from the technology utilized in the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines that were used in the early 1950s. CNC involved the use of coded instructions on a punched paper tape and could control single manufacturing functions. CAM controlled computer systems, however, can control a whole set of manufacturing functions simultaneously.

CAM allows work instructions and procedures to be communicated directly to the manufacturing machines. A CAM system controls manufacturing operations performed by robotic milling machines, lathes, welding machines and other industrial tools. It moves the raw material to different machines within the system by allowing systematic completion of each step. Finished products can also be moved within the system to complete other manufacturing operations such as packaging, synthesizing and making final checks and changes.

Some of the major applications of the CAM system are glass working, woodturning, metalworking and spinning, and graphical optimization of the entire manufacturing procedure. Production of the solids of rotation, plane surfaces, and screw threads is done by applying CAM systems.
A CAM system allows the manufacturing of three-dimensional solids, using ornamental lathes with greater intricacy and detail. Products such as candlestick holders, table legs, bowls, baseball bats, crankshafts, and camshafts can be manufactured using the CAM system. CAM system can also be applied to the process of diamond turning to manufacture diamond tipped cutting materials. Aspheric optical elements made from glass, crystals, and other metals can also be produced using CAM systems.
Computer aided manufacturing can be applied to the fields of mechanical, electrical, industrial and aerospace engineering. Applications such as thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, and kinematics can be controlled using CAM systems. Other applications such as electromagnetism, ergonomics, aerodynamics, and propulsion and material science may also use computer aided manufacturing.

Computer Aided Manufacturing provides detailed information on Applications of Computer Aided Manufacturing, Cam And Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Design , Computer Aided Design Scanners and more. Computer Aided Manufacturing is affiliated with Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Stith

CNC Milling Machine Buying Tips

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1. About CNC

- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling is the most common form of CNC - CNC mills can perform the functions of drilling and often turning - CNC Milling machines are classified according to the number of axes that they possess - Axes are labeled as x and y for horizontal movement, and z for vertical movement - The evolution of CNC milling machines drastically changed the manufacturing industry - Curves are as easy to cut as straight lines, complex 3-D structures are relatively easy to produce, and the number of machining steps that required human action is way down.

2. The Fabrication Process

With the use of CNC milling machine the fabrication process of the materials have been trimmed down to just a couple of steps. CNC Milling machines now days are driven directly from computer softwares crated by CAD software packages. With the use CNC Milling machines the assembly of parts can go from brief designs without any intermediate paper drawing works being required. In one sense, with the use of CNC milling machines industrials tasks are done must easier and much faster and the production cost of the company is also lessening out. CNC machines may be said to represent special industrial robot systems, as they are programmable to perform any kind of machining operation, within certain physical limits, like other robotic systems.

3. Buying Tips

Before buying a CNC milling machine it is a must that you should have knowledge about the CNC milling machines basic parts. A CNC milling machine is basically composed of a Safety shield that is usually a clear plastic cover that cover and protects the cutting area. The Tool bit, this part of the CNC milling machines is the one that do the cutting. Spindle Shaft, is the part that holds the tool bit. Spindle Motor, is the part of the CNC milling machine that drives the cutter. The Vertical Column, the part that holds the spindle and all of its part. The Cross Side, a moveable support where the work piece is being cut. The axis motors, which moves the cross side into different axis and the Controller box.

When purchasing your milling machine make sure to check that you have all of this part intact on your CNC milling machine, for if one of this parts is not there it will not surely work or will produce an undesirable end product. Also see to it to check out for safety features, never buy a CNC milling machine without an emergency stop button, this button automatically stops machining when it is pressed. Human, hardware or software errors could mean big losses if the CNC cannot be stopped quickly enough to correct the problem. Also check out the control panel part, it is advisable to buy one with a big control guide sticker so you can clearly see it.

Also check out the screws and tools with long overhangs and adapters, be more observant about cracks and breaks on this CNC milling tools. Make sure that the plastic shield that you are purchasing with your CNC milling machine is made up of high impact polycarbonate plastic. An insert break loose from a 35 mm diameter CNC milling cutter at a spindle speed of 45,000 rpm will be thrown out at a speed of 90 meters per second - equivalent to a bullet that is being shot out of a pistol!

For more great cnc milling machine related articles and resources check out http://www.cnc-advisor.com

CNC CHESS PAWN LATHE

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Centroid CNC Lathe

Cycle Time Reduction Principles for CNC Machining Equipment

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What is the definition of cycle time?

Cycle time is defined to be the time that happens from the time a task or series of tasks is initiated to the time a task is completed. Example, the cycle time is the time a shipping order is printed to the time it is loaded on the truck and the system is updated. An alternate definition would be is the time it takes to load, run, and unload on workpiece.

Cycle time of a machine can be simply measured by timing how long it takes from pressing the button to start the cycle for the first workpiece to the pressing the next button for the next workpiece.

Production quantities in an industry dictate that the more workpieces you run, the more important it is to achieve the goal of lowering the cycle time.

Everything and anything that happens in a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining equipment can be divided into four categories:

1.) On-line, productive tasks:

These are the actual machining operations that occur during a CNC cycle. These are the milling, drilling, tapping, reaming, and any other machining operation that in some way furthers the completion of the workpiece. To minimize the cycle time in these areas, there are two ways in which this can be achieved. One would be through careful process planning.

The process engineer must select an appropriate machine tool, cutting tools, fixturing, and machining order in a way that it matches the number of workpieces to be machined that will be based on the production quantity. The cycle time will be a reflection of the processes being used to machine workpieces.

If in the many times that your company’s processes have already been developed and implemented before you begin your cycle time reduction program, then your second alternative is to optimize cutting operations for this would involve properly selecting cutting tool materials, feeds, and speeds to machine workpieces as efficiently as possible with the current process.

2.) On-line, non-productive tasks:

These are tasks that occur during the machining cycle that do not actually further the completion of the workpiece. The first thing Computer Numerical Control people often target for improvement is wasted program execution time. These are the things like rapid movements, tool changes, M-code execution and spindle acceleration/deceleration. Reducing program execution time in this area is usually easy.

It often takes nothing more than carefully monitoring the production run for a few workpieces to find those times when the program can be modified to eliminate noticeable pauses during the cycle. Although keep in mind that the worker for these machines must not overlook other processes for they may be so concerned with minimizing program execution that they overlook other operations, resulting in severe wastes of cycle time.

3.) Off-line, non-productive tasks:

These are the tasks performed in the machining cycle that do nothing to further the completion of the workpiece. Since these types of tasks are done while the machine is producing workpieces, they do not actually add to the cycle time. It is possible to free the operator of the machines of performing off-line productive tasks if they have little, or nothing to do during lengthy machine cycles.

4.) Off-line, productive tasks:

These are the tasks done away by the CNC machine, while the machine is producing workpieces, which would further the completion of the workpiece. This is extremely helpful during lengthy CNC cycles, tasks in this category can reduce the time it takes to complete the production run dramatically, which would effectively reduce cycle time.

How CNC Helps Companies

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The advent of Computers lessened the need for human intervention in almost all aspects of our daily lives. This is especially true in the industrial sector now that production is virtually automated.

Precision and accuracy

Computer numerical control has been able to help companies in terms of precision. With the need for more complex designs and more complex operations, human workers could not cope with the required precision that comes with advancement. CNC machines were able to alter that idea by allowing increased precision and lesser error ratios with regards to production.

Another important improvement that CNC has brought with it is the increased accuracy. The dimensions of components have to be very accurate. And since an increase in production speed also increases the error ratio, CNC has helped lower that ratio by the increased level of automation and the error detection capabilities that computers have.

Speed

In the industrial sector, speed is of the essence. With CNC technology, the normal production capacity has been increased exponentially. This means that effective and accurate production methods have been developed. Mass production requires more scrutiny for errors and mistakes. However, anomalies can also be corrected. The programming structures of CNC machines can be altered in a fast way. This means that mistakes do not have as serious an impact as they had before CNC was improved to this level.

Machine versatility

CNC machines have become very versatile with regards to the tools that they use. They can easily be assigned to different tasks and thus can be very productive. Tools and networks can be switched without compromising the speed of the production. Aside from this, one machine can do more than one task at a time. This exceeds the normal human capacities as it allows more tasks to be accomplished at a faster rate than before.

Furthermore, when one machine tool breaks down, it can easily be pulled off the grid to prevent it from affecting the whole production cycle. It can then be replaced or repaired on the spot.

Lesser human intervention

Since component production is a very tedious and repetitive operation, human error skyrockets as time passes. This is due to fatigue and other factors. Furthermore, the ability of a person degrades due to psychological and emotional factors. This means that if a person works on the same job for a certain amount of time, the person may eventually get bored or tired or both. This increases the possibility for the human to commit an error and thus causes a drop in the efficiency rating of that person. A machine, however, does not get tired or bored. A machine does not have any concern at all.

Therefore, a machine increases efficiency ratings by speeding up production and eliminating or reducing factors that threaten efficiency. In this case, one must simply program the machine to start a cycle. Furthermore, humans have to be fed, paid, and rested. Machines only have to be rested when failures occur to often and they do not need to be paid or fed.

This brings us to the conclusion that companies will be able to save a lot in the long run. While investing in CNC machines is not cheap, maintenance will only cost a fraction of what will be paid to manual laborers.

How To Effectively Consider CNC

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In the employment world, the phrase “manual labor” is often associated with jobs which are dirty, psychologically sickening, or worse, both. Small to medium-size manufacturing enterprises are moving towards using the CNC(Computer Numerical Control) in their major manufacturing processes because of its fame in accuracy, flexibility and automation. If you’re one of these entrepreneurs, don’t jump in the bandwagon just yet.

Acquiring a CNC machine is more than just buying additional equipment; it also has a social aspect in it. Here is the low down:

PEOPLE-WISE

First, you have to consider the people who are working in your shop. How many people will be displaced if you buy a CNC machine? Keep in mind that a CNC machine is multi-operational; so it’s possible that a couple of laborers will be erased from the production team. Experts say that the healthy ratio is at least one-sixth (1/6) of your whole labor force.

You will be saving time and effort, yes, and that is the best thing about having a CNC machine. However, you might be worrying about actually terminating people because, to put it bluntly, you won’t need them anymore. A CNC machine, just like any machine, will need an operator. Instructions used by a CNC machine for operational execution are composed of CNC “words/codes” and is in the form of a “sentence”.

Does one of your people ever have experience with a CNC machine before? Can s/he formulate CNC instructions? If the answer to both questions are “yes”, then that’s absolutely good news. However, if you answered “no” to at least one of the questions, then there are more things to evaluate.

Are your people capable of fast-learning? If it pains you to terminate them because they have been good employees in the past, train them on how to use the CNC machine and how to compose instructions for it. There are plenty of free training kits online.

COMPANY-WISE

There’s a corporate adage that goes: “Innovate or die”. There’s a lot of truth in that. A purchase of any CNC machine symbolizes a company’s decision to innovate to increase productivity. However, there are a few things that you need to note.

Review your company’s history. How long should you innovate drastically in terms of production? CNC equipment is expensive. It is an investment. In the long run, you may be forced to buy new equipment more often. Consider CNC heavily if you feel that your company innovates faster than other companies in terms of the industry that you belong to. After all, you can easily alter designs and material when you have CNC powered operations.

In most companies, “Innovation” is another word for “saving”. It means saving time, effort and space. In using CNC machines, the first two factors are sure savings while the third is not. People doing the labor and CNC machines often occupy the same amount of space. Do not romanticize a “clearing of clutter” effect when you buy a CNC machine. You will keep up, in terms of production; but CNC equipment also occupies a lot of space. So in that aspect, it’s pretty much the same thing.

Another thing that you have to be reminded of is the level of accuracy that your company needs to produce. Intricate patterns on metal/wood will DEMAND CNC accuracy. So any time that you feel your company is ready for such innovation and accuracy, consider employing CNC in your manufacturing.

At the end of the day, the last aspect that you need to evaluate is you, yourself. As the owner/head manager, you have to KNOW AND UNDERSTAND the CNC machine and the software well. This is the biggest battle that you have to face.

The equation to improvement is simple a really good machine plus a really good operator (you). Do not easily be blinded by the salesmen’s poetry.

Computer Numerical Controlled Machines Automate the Sheet Metal Fabrication Industry

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Manufacturers, which produce various steel products, require punching of sheet metal to meet design requirements. Technology has entered the scene of this once manually operated process. This not only increases the speed of production but it gives a new meaning to the term "accuracy" in the positioning of the specific operations. This has been accomplished with the introduction of CNC or computer numerically controlled machining centers.

Punching of sheet metals is a steel fabrication process utilizing 'tools and dies'. A punch press is the machine which performs the work of shaping and cutting. A turret houses a set of various tools on the machine, depending on the type of punching required.

The punch press, a type of fabricating machine, presses sheet metal against a die with extreme pressure and at very rapid speed of positioning. Sheet metal, now pushed into the die, assumes the shape and design of the specific dye. Cut away, is any excess metal from the newly shaped piece of sheet metal.

Punch presses use hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical power in their operation. This power exerts immense pressure to press the shape into and perform the cutting of the metal. A piece of sheet metal receives its new form from the taking away of material. Less sheet metal makes a new form. The excess taken away becomes scrap metal for other uses.

A CNC operated punch press typically performs this manipulation process. CNC stands for computer numerical controlled. In the case of a punch press, it utilizes a computer in its operations. The computer directs the action of this press, which contains the tools and their respective dies.

This machine receives different punching instructions from a program written and installed in the computer for a particular application. This enables the machine to go through a complete machining cycle, using various tools and automatically positioning the sheet metal over the appropriate die, at very rapid speeds and with little operator intervention. The accuracy of this process is measured in thousandths of an inch.

A manually operated punch press, for simple punching, with one tool and die set, are still in use today. Large operations with multiple dies and unique specifications rely on the CNC application.

The die portion of a punch press is of very fine tolerances. These are tolerances of thousands of an inch. Pressing sheet metal into a die with a punch means the die does the actual cutting of the metal. The punch, attached to a ram, is a removable piece, as is the die portion.

The die set for sheet metal punching consists of a male punch and a female die. When brought together, with the application of intense pressure, the result is a sheet metal piece as per the specified design.

Punch presses using CNC technology have meant greater volumes of sheet metal production. This process spells efficiency for a company, which means greater profits. This edge is necessary in the competitive steel fabrication companies worldwide find themselves.

Today, there are turret punch presses, CNC types, which perform faster because of technological advances. They can operate unattended and have sheet metal sorting capabilities. New technology constantly raises the mark for performance. Wise steel fabrication companies invest in these applications if it means streamlining of their operations for maximum profit.

Today's CNC controlled machines can even alert workers who are off-site if something goes wrong in a sheet metal punching process. This allows for unattended "lights out" production capabilities for manufacturers. Telecommunications technology embedded in these computer systems links to users' phone devices. In essence, CNC technology provides a constant watch over machining of steel.

The use of robotic applications in steel fabrication, including punching, receives continued research and application. Advanced, state-of-the-art CNC technology is the solid future of most fabrication industries.

Billy Kite is a researcher writing on behalf of premium steel sales. A company that sells more than just hrpo - hot rolled pickled and oiled steel products.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/computer-numerical-controlled-machines-automate-the-sheet-metal-fabrication-industry-390530.html

CNC Milling Machine Buying Tips

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CNC stand for Computer Numerical Control, and refers specifically to the computer control of machine tools. The main purpose of CNC Milling Machines is to repeatedly manufacture complex parts in metal as well as other materials, using a specially coded program. This specially coded program that is used by CNC Milling machines is written in a notation called G-code. G-codes represent specific CNC Milling functions in alphanumeric format. CNC Milling was developed in the late 1940's and early 1950's by the MIT Servomechanism Laboratory.

1. About CNC

- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling is the most common form of CNC
- CNC mills can perform the functions of drilling and often turning
- CNC Milling machines are classified according to the number of axes that they possess
- Axes are labeled as x and y for horizontal movement, and z for vertical movement
- The evolution of CNC milling machines drastically changed the manufacturing industry
- Curves are as easy to cut as straight lines, complex 3-D structures are relatively easy to produce, and the number of machining steps that required human action is way down.

2. The Fabrication Process

With the use of CNC milling machine the fabrication process of the materials have been trimmed down to just a couple of steps. CNC Milling machines now days are driven directly from computer softwares crated by CAD software packages. With the use CNC Milling machines the assembly of parts can go from brief designs without any intermediate paper drawing works being required. In one sense, with the use of CNC milling machines industrials tasks are done must easier and much faster and the production cost of the company is also lessening out. CNC machines may be said to represent special industrial robot systems, as they are programmable to perform any kind of machining operation, within certain physical limits, like other robotic systems.

3. Buying Tips

Before buying a CNC milling machine it is a must that you should have knowledge about the CNC milling machines basic parts. A CNC milling machine is basically composed of a Safety shield that is usually a clear plastic cover that cover and protects the cutting area. The Tool bit, this part of the CNC milling machines is the one that do the cutting. Spindle Shaft, is the part that holds the tool bit. Spindle Motor, is the part of the CNC milling machine that drives the cutter. The Vertical Column, the part that holds the spindle and all of its part. The Cross Side, a moveable support where the work piece is being cut. The axis motors, which moves the cross side into different axis and the Controller box.

When purchasing your milling machine make sure to check that you have all of this part intact on your CNC milling machine, for if one of this parts is not there it will not surely work or will produce an undesirable end product. Also see to it to check out for safety features, never buy a CNC milling machine without an emergency stop button, this button automatically stops machining when it is pressed. Human, hardware or software errors could mean big losses if the CNC cannot be stopped quickly enough to correct the problem. Also check out the control panel part, it is advisable to buy one with a big control guide sticker so you can clearly see it.

Also check out the screws and tools with long overhangs and adapters, be more observant about cracks and breaks on this CNC milling tools. Make sure that the plastic shield that you are purchasing with your CNC milling machine is made up of high impact polycarbonate plastic. An insert break loose from a 35 mm diameter CNC milling cutter at a spindle speed of 45,000 rpm will be thrown out at a speed of 90 meters per second - equivalent to a bullet that is being shot out of a pistol!

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CNC Milling Machine Buying Tips

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Author: infocus

CNC Machining - An Overview

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CNC stands for computer numerical control. It refers to a computer "controller" that reads instructions code which dictates how a machine operates. And is typically associated with the removal of material such as metal for the creation of a complex part. The design and cutting is controlled by software programs like, CAM and others.

The earlier version of CNC was a system referred to as NC or Numerically Controlled machines, which were basically physically wired and their operating parameters where difficult at best to change, if at all.

Punched tape was used and continued to be used as a medium for transferring codes into the controller for many decades after 1950's. It is now replaced with computer networks and software program that aid greatly to efficiencies and the ability to adapt mid project.

CNC machines have changed the tool and die industry and manufacturing in general since their introduction. The programs have lead to eliminating most of the human involvement. For example, curves are now as easy to cut as straight lines, complex 3-D structures are much easier to produce, and the number of steps to produce a part has been dramatically reduced.

Beside the efficiencies of manufacturing created by CNC, a further benefit has been a major improvement in quality control. With less human involvement more consistency in production, quality has been the result. Bottom line, CNC eliminates many mistakes and errors that human involvement can lead too.

In a company that focuses on CNC machining, they often set up a series of CNC machines sometime referred to as a Cell. The interesting thing here is that a series of CNC machines can be set up together allowing the part to go from one machine to the next, all without human involvement. For example, some companies have automated the process to the point that they will leave their machines running over night and over weekends with no operator involvement. Laser devices check for quality control and alert the controllers if any defects are found.

Mike Webster, Webster Engineering is a prototype and low-volume machine shop specializing in complex and precision metal work since 1962. Located in Roseville, Michigan, Webster Engineering is privately owned and certified to the ISO 9001:2000 International Standard. Webster Engineering has a reputation for providing solutions that exceed expectations for speed, accuracy, delivery, quality and cost - achieving real customer satisfaction. Contact Webster Engineering at 586-777-0116 or CNC Machining or complex prototype design

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Computer Aided Manufacturing Applications

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In Depth Discussion In Planning CNC Programs

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Understanding the Computer Numerical Control Machine as well as learning the method of programming these machines is not enough to maximize the capability of these devices. Even if you are proficient on those two stated above, proper understanding of the step by step procedures is still important.

In this article we would talk about the step by step procedures of programming Computer Numerical Control Machines which is recommended by the most experienced CNC Machine Operators and progammers.

Step by Step procedures in planning of a CNC program

Whenever we try to program a Computer Numerical Control Machine the first thing that the Machine operator should consider is the blueprint of the part we are trying to manufacture. Proper understanding and reading of a blueprint is a basic and the most important skill in the manufacturing Industry that engineers, managers, CNC machine operators as well as CNC programmers should know about.

Proper understanding of these blueprints should help the CNC machine operator as well as the programmer to use the appropriate CNC machine to be used.

The second step on the proper programming of a Computer Numerical Control Machine is by selecting the appropriate type of Machine that will be used. This is where the proper understanding of each machine type comes into play. Knowing the type of design, specifications as well as features of a machine will help you on choosing the appropriate one.

The third step would be the analysis of the operations or the setup sheet. The setup sheet is used to describe the necessary processes needed to create the parts on a CNC machine. The setup sheet includes the proper machine sequence and also the tools and cutting data to be used. Specifications written on the setup sheet aids the programmer on the proper algorithm needed by the Computer Numerical Control Machine.

The fourth step on the step by step requirements would be the proper selection of the tools required to create the parts. This step is important on the industry manufacturing practices, basically the tools to be chosen is based on the common sense and Good CNC operators and programmers should be aware of them. Usually there is a certain checklist on this step, the most important point of this checklist would be knowing the material to be machined as well as its characteristics.

Fifth step would be the calculation of the cutting data. Proper calculation is one of the important steps in the planning process. This is where the spindle speed, federate value, cutting speed and the depth of cut is calculated to fit to the specifications in the blueprint.

Sixth step would be the actual programming process, this is also the step where the proper Units are inserted into the programming algorithm of the Computer Numerical Control Machine. This is where we incorporate all the codes that are needed to run the whole CNC machines in the CAD software.

Programming Considerations

In order for other programmers to analyze and append your algorithm, it is important to have certain programming considerations. These program considerations were suggested by experienced Computer Numerical Control Machine Programmers and Operators.

First it is important that you develop a programming technique that will be readily understood by other developers, with a good programming technique programs could easily be appended if there are any errors.

Second, it is also important to proofread all programs for typographical errors before being executed in the CAM software, this is to ensure that the CNC machine would operate its desired operation. And most important of all is to keep your programs as simple as possible in order for the machine to process the instructions faster.