Computer Numerical Control

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Cnc Windows Software

The development of computer numeric controlled (CNC) routing, using affordable personal computers has already begun to revolutionise all aspects of the woodworking industry. In so doing it has created new opportunities for large and small businesses as well as for individual craftsmen.

CNC is a technique whereby the movement of a router head is controlled by instructions from a computer. These instructions come from a computer program or list that the user keys into the CNC 860 console or into a computer as ISO standard commands called 'G' codes.As an example, the code G01 X100 Y100, instructs the head to move in a straight line to a point horizontally and vertically 100mm away from its starting position.

The CNC 860 The Trend CNC package is based around the Elu/DeWalt CNC 860 Machining Centre, which has a machining area of 860mm x 860mm x 90mm. These dimensions relate to the three axes, X,Y and Z (width, length and height). Each axis is served by a separate stepper motor, controlling the movement of the routing head. Two head options are offered: a modified portable router or a continuously rated, high cycle motor, that provides improved performance for intensive machining applications.

Programming directly in G-codes through the console can be time consuming. To assist the operator, a PC software application called CNCTalk is included with the machine. This is a basic computer aided design (CAD) application which runs under DOS, the original PC operating system before Windows. It is useful for intermediate applications like cutting out irregular shapes. However, to gain the maximum versatility from the CNC 860,Trend's Open Sign System Software for Windows is the most effective solution.

OSS consists of two separate software applications: OSS Draw which provides the drawing tools to create any shape or sign, and OSS Work which handles all the routing and tooling-related parameters like depth and offset. Graphical simulations are shown for all tool parameters enabling the user to perfect a design before routing any material.

Sign-writing As an example of how these products work together, the method of producing a simple sign is shown, incorporating two different lettering styles and a graphical logo. Having launched OSS Draw, the first step is to draw a box or boarder on the screen to indicate the overall area of the work. This can be either a simple rectangular boarder or a more decorative one. This border then needs to have a depth assigned to it. This is done by using colours to define the depth of each area.

The logo is then created using the drawing tools within OSS Draw. The words are keyed in using the text function. Again, colours are assigned to each area to produce a graphical representation of how the finished sign will look. The next task is to define the routing parameters. In the example, the red and blue areas of the logo and the lettering have been assigned a depth of 5mm and the green area assigned a depth of zero. The same dialogue box lets you specify whether a letter or object is engraved or routed through the material. The cutter profile that will be used can now be defined. With lettering, particularly serifed fonts, the cutter used needs to have a small diameter, perhaps 3mm. However, to achieve a 5mm cutting depth this will have to be routed in several passes.

A simulation of the cutting path is now drawn on screen. Having then created a G-code file of the sign ready for the CNC 860 to cut, the file is downloaded to the CNC 860. The design can now be routed, the material being held on the bed by an adaptable clamping mechanism. From the simulation, the path that the tool will take is known allowing a datum point to be set using the zero key on the console, and the program 8 INProfile is run using the start key. This type of routing operation takes around 20 minutes to complete and requires no further involvement by the machine operator. Other accessories Sign-writing is just one of the many complex and wide ranging routing operations that can be carried out using the OSS and CNC 860 package. OSS also has a range of tools for drawing component shapes and profiles directly or with an electronic sketchpad (graphics tablet). Vacuum Clamping To reduce the through-put time for this kind of operation, the CNC 860 can also be used with a vacuum bed. Trend offer a complete range of affordable vacuum pumps and jigmaking accessories to enable all CNC users to produce a highly automated production system to suit their own specific requirements.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Paul Disley is a woodworking expert at Trend Router

CNC Turning Process - An Overview

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CNC Turning process is a simple method of shaping a metal or wood on a lathe. It is a machine tool that spins or turns a block of material to achieve rotational symmetry in a machine shop. Turning can be done manually or using a CNC machining. The computer numerically controls CNC machine. A typical CNC machining center is designed to remove material using a rotating cutter that moves laterally to a work piece mounted onto a table or fixture. In the CNC turning process, a piece of material is rotated on the lathe and a cutting tool is traversed along two axis of motion, transverse or longitudinal. The process is done in a machine shop. The cutting tool is used until the required depth and dimension is achieved. Turning can be on both sides, inside or outside as per the needs and specifications. The rotation occurs at the turning center that enables control of tool motion through computer programs that use numeric data. Parts that are too large to balance and cause difficulty in rotating around one center point, can be worked on a machining center featuring a U axis. The turning length is about 1000mm between centers and has a drive power and speed range up to 46kW and 4,000 revolution/minute respectively. CNC turning process cuts the metal into various different shapes ranging from plain surface, taper ends, contour, and filter to radius profiles and threaded surfaces. These cut and turned metal pieces are used to create shafts, rods, hubs, bushes, pulleys and much more. Many industries also use it for fabricating parts and materials that have circular cross section. The process applies well to the most rigid materials that can be controlled exclusively with the software program tooling. The process does reduce the cost of production but on the other end, it limits the design flexibility. CNC turning machines are said to deliver components at a faster production rate with optimum manufacturing accuracy. The automation of the CNC turning process allows reaching tight dimensional tolerances in every piece. Other advantages are high level of parts consistency or uniformity, achievement of optimum cycle times for all components and faster execution of larger volume. As machines have brought a revolution in the industrial world, new technologies provided by emachineshop, boost the use of metal products. George is a well-known author who writes on the topics related with free CAD software, cnc machine shop and waterjet cutting for the site www.emachineshop.com. [Photo]

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!

Article Source: http://www.articlenorth.com

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

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/

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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CNC Milling Machine Buying Tips

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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.

My Bestfriend's Name Is CNC: A Company’s Perspective

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CNC machine tools are praised all over the world because of three major factors: automation, accuracy and versatility. Human (operator) intervention is reduced to minimal levels because CNC machines can run on its own after it is programmed. Also, when the program is perfected, the CNC machine can run the instructions perfectly on its own.

Remember that any CNC machine can also be programmed to do special one-time tasks such as a dry-run, which will help the operator oversee what will happen when s/he leaves the CNC machine to do its tasks alone. Accuracy also goes hand in hand with repeatability. Again, once the program is perfected, the CNC machine can perform that task PERFECTLY even until 7 or 7000 times.

Lastly, versatility also works in the form of “task memory” that these CNC machines have. Once a program has been performed even for just one production run, it can be easily recollected the next time that the company needs the program. This saves time for setting up and loading of different programs.

The CNC sure simplifies the work of thousands of factories and machine shops worldwide. However, no matter how great CNC sounds like, it is something that doesn’t fit in some industries. Like, perhaps, in the cosmetic industry, or in the show-business. Those examples are way too obvious. On the other hand, in these two major mechanical industries, CNC is almost synonymous to “hero”.

THE METAL INDUSTRY

Think of Metal. Metal. Perhaps the easiest metal that you can imagine is that of…a spoon. Now, imagine ANY spoon done with bare hands. After that, imagine a thousand spoons done with bare hands. It’s so tedious you might even consider suicide if you are assigned to such a job.

The metal industry has been operating on CNC for ages. In fact, if you search CNC in the internet, you will instantly find metal companies topping the list. The major CNC centers that you will find in most metal machining processes are “CNC turning centers”, “CNC machining centers”, “CNC grinding centers” and “CNC drill and tap centers”.

Some of the CNC programs that are connected with the metal industry are milling, drilling, reaming, boring and tapping. Moreover, any metal that has any curved side have experienced some form of knurling, grooving, turning and/or threading.

Fabrication, in manufacturing, refers to processes that are executed on thin plates/sheets. These sheets are cut, punched, and bent to form their finishing shapes. CNC also stars in almost every aspect of metal fabrication.

THE WOODWORKING INDUSTRY

While the most beautiful wood-worked products are most likely hand-made, you cannot deny that a wide array of tools and furniture HAVE to be NOT hand-made to save time and for mass production levels. There’s just too much work and not to many hands. In light with this, CNC has worked wonders for this industry.

Important woodworking processes include cutting, framing, carving and engraving. The most useful woodworking CNC product is the CNC router table. It is capable of carving elaborate 2D and 3D designs. Moreover, it is also capable of material change while repeating the same design. Since contemporary furniture is often a splash of different materials (e.g. Wood, aluminum and/or plastic), any CNC router is capable of reproducing the same design EVEN in different kinds of materials by just altering the router bit.

Although many local, middle-sized enterprise owners are skeptical about using employing CNC in their manufacturing operations, there have been many success stories to sway them to using it anyway. In the Metal and Woodworking industries, CNC has proven itself time and again to be efficient.

It saves time and efforts in production and (more importantly) back-jobs. If you’re venturing to one of these industries, remember that the word "labor" isn’t something social anymore - it’s technological. And start calling CNC your best friend.

Understanding CNC

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Have you ever asked yourself how machines in a factory know exactly when to stop making the parts they’re supposed to make? Well, this is all because of Computer Numerical Control (CNC). But to understand CNC, you have to know what Numerical Control (NC) is.

HISTORY

NC machines were first introduced after the 2nd world war as mass production became the trend. These machines were given a set of instructions in punched cards. However, these machines were hard-wired and their parameters were difficult to change.

These NC machines still required a great deal of human intervention. To illustrate this point, try to take a look at a drill press. A lot of actions have to be taken in order to manufacture a product. The process is actually so complicated that a person has to do something almost every step of the production process. This created an avenue for errors to take place as the likelihood of fatigue increased with the quantity growth.

CNC then came into the picture when computers were introduced. Punched cards were replaced by floppy disks, cables, and other software transfer media. This made it easier to manage and edit data.

Production and manufacturing were revolutionized by the increased automation of CNC machines. These machines allowed a degree of added control over the quality and consistency of the components that were manufactured without any additional strain on the operators. This reduced the frequency of errors and allowed the operators time to perform additional tasks. Furthermore, this automation allowed a greater degree of flexibility in the way components are held in the manufacturing process.

With the advent of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM), even programming CNC machines is a snap. These programs actually take the bulk of the programming process to make the operation less tedious. However, to be an effective programmer of CNC machines, you have to know what the machine you’re working on will be doing. That is why machinists are often the best people for the job.

The ease that the machines provide is hinged heavily on the quality of the machine. Low-cost CNC machines oftentimes have many functions that have to be manually activated. High-cost machines, however, are almost fully automated. The operator only has to load or unload workpieces. Once the cycle has been initiated, the operator just has to sit back and watch for any malfunctions. The stress on the operator is so low that some even complain of boredom in the middle of a cycle.

CODING

The programming language that CNC uses is called a G-Code. These codes actually position the parts and do the work. To be able to have a machine work properly, you have to input the correct variables such as axes, reference points, the machine accessories, and whatnot. Every machine has a different set of variables so you have to be careful to take note of the differences.

Aside from the G-Code, logical commands or parametric programming can be used to make the process more time-efficient. This type of programming language shortens lengthy programs with incremental passes. A loop can also be programmed thereby removing the need for coding repetitions.

Because of these features, parametric programming is more efficient than CAM. It allows users to directly and efficiently make performance adjustments. It also allows extensions to the functionality of the machine it is running on.

And that makes CNC.

3 Basic Motion Types in a CNC Machine

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A Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machine may have more than one motion type that it uses, but there are three most common motion types that are easy to remember. These are the Rapid Motion, the Straight Line Motion, and the Circular Motion.

All of these motion types may seem different but they share two things in common, which would be that they are all modal and the endpoint of each motion is specified in motion command. By being modal it means that the motion type would be in effect until changed otherwise.

3 common motion types:

1.)Rapid Motion Type

Rapid motion type is also called Positioning. The way this motion type is used is through utilizing the fastest rate possible of the command motion of the machine. Example uses of rapid motion are moving to clear obstructions, placing cutting tools to and from the desired position, and any program that provides non-cutting in their schemes.

The command that is usually programmed to a CNC machine is G00 because in this command, the end point for the rapid motion would be specified.

The CNC machine, with most controls given, will be able to move as fast as possible in all commanded axes. In the case of rapid motion, one axis may be able to reach its end point before other axes. Straight line movement will not occur with type of rapid command function and the programmer of the machine must take into account that there are no obstructions to avoid. Straight line motion will happen even during rapid motion commands when done with other controls.

2.)Straight Line Motion

This type of motion would allow the programmer of the machine to command perfectly straight line movements within the machine. Unlike the rapid motion type, the straight line motion would allow the programmer to vary the rate of the motion or feed rate to be used during the movement. Examples of using straight line motion would be turning a straight diameter, taper, when milling straight surfaces, and when drilling for this is because these examples require straight cutting movement.

The common word to specify a straight line motion into a machine would be G01, for within this command the programmer will include the preferred end point within each of the axes.

3.)Circular Motion

This motion type would cause the machine to move in the direction of a circular path and is used to generate the radii in machining. When talking about points on circular motion feed rate, it is equal to that of straight line motion.

Other than that of straight line motion and rapid motion, there are two G codes that are commonly used when programming a circular motion into a machine. These are G02 and G03. G02 is used when the programmer desires a clockwise motion into the machine while G03 is used to make an anti-clockwise motion. To know which of the commands to use, the programmer must view the movement with the same perspective as to what the motion of the machine will be, may it be clockwise or anti-clockwise.

Another requirement that would be programmed into a machine that would be using circular motion is that the programmer must specify the radius of the arc that is to be generated. With brand new technological advances in CNC, an “R” word is now used to specify the radius.

For older controls in CNC machinery, an “I”, “J”, and “K” are used to specify location of the center point of the arc.

CAM: A Vital Component of CNC

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Computer Aided Manufacturing started being used by automotive and aerospace component manufacturing companies. This sped up the manufacturing process and thus increased efficiency ratings. However, the introduction of CAD into the industrial sector did not eliminate the need for skilled professionals.

In fact, the operation of this program requires a higher degree of skill in terms of being computer literate.

Flaws

The CAM system is a flawless solution. However speedy the system becomes, it still has faults that may hamper production. Since CAM generates a code for the least capable machine, an improperly set CAM software required heavy manual editing. In this case, editing such a code is a tedious and drawn-out process that takes a lot of time and effort (something that big-time companies cannot spare).

Another problem that you have to face is the data exchange that has to take place when integrating CAM with other components (CAD/CAM/CAE PLM). It becomes necessary for the CAM operator to export the data in a more compatible data format. And since the output stack of CAM is a G-code text file—sometimes containing thousands of commands—the operator is then faced with a very serious time problem.

CAM cannot reason. In this case, it cannot figure out the right toolpath for mass production. Operators would still have to select the type of tool to be used, the machining process that should be followed, and the path to be used. This means that the CAM cannot adjust to wear issues and sudden changes. It needs to be reprogrammed to be able to work efficiently. Furthermore, mass production increases the likelihood of errors to occur in the production cycle.

PROS

CAM can cut cycle time significantly. This means that with the proper people and the proper tools, a more efficient production method can be obtained. A lower cycle time means that you can produce more components in a lesser time. And since the main users of CAM and CNC are big manufacturers with deadlines, it is of the utmost priority to cut cycle time.

Another advantage that could be gained by CAM software is the increase in machine life. Since the process is automated, the system can keep track of certain variables that allow it to adjust to the conditions of the machine that is operating under it. This means that the life of the machine can be extended by adjusting the performance of the machine in order to avoid overworking it.

Quality can also be taken into account in this scenario. It is because the system also monitors slight differences in the production environment. Furthermore, the intricate designs that cannot be achieved by human engineers can be achieved by the machines. Also, these designs can be completed at a faster rate compared to manual operations. Another factor that should be considered would be the error ratio of the production of any components.

Conclusion

So, CAM is a very important aspect of production. However, the need for skilled operators still exists as programming and setting up these machines decide the fate of the manufacturing process. However, the increased automation and efficiency provided by such a system makes programming and setting up of these systems the only jobs of the operators.

This also allows operators to be more productive as they do not have to watch any single machine for more than the required amount of time.

People You Will Need When You Already Have A CNC Machine

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If you think that you will just sit back and relax when you have a CNC machine in your shop, think again. CNC may help you speed up your operations and even make them more efficient. However, CNC is not a “wonder robot” which will make you disregard all your employees and expect your shop to run on auto-pilot.

Though you will need more people without the CNC technology, you will need only three very, very skilled people. Call these people your friends, your team, whatever. In the long run, they might be just all you need to keep the shop in good shape.

THE PROGRAMMER

The first person is the CNC programmer. S/he is like the "playmaker". S/he will create the programs that the CNC machines are intended to execute. Since the programs are in the form of CNC codes fabricated like sentences, he should have mastered these codes because they work like a different language. The regular CNC machine can use up to 50 codes, so that’s like learning 50 new words for the newbie.

Also, the programmer should have at least and engineering or machining degree. Remember that the CNC machine will only execute WHAT IT IS PROGRAMMED TO DO. If the program is wrong, the whole operation goes down the drain with it. Moreover,s/he should also be flexible and have a fast turn-around because a CNC machine is often used to machine a huge selection of different work-pieces.

THE OPERATOR

The second person that you need is the CNC operator. S/he will simply recheck the programs loaded to the machine and push the right buttons to get the work done. However, thinking that a CNC operator can have little or NO SKILL AT ALL is wrong. A CNC machine operator must have at least basic machining skills and s/he should have undergone some form of training to run a CNC machine.

These machines can produce very intricate motions, making it possible to make shapes that cannot be created on conventional machine tools. So, the operator should foresee this complexity and know how to cruise with it. The skills that an operator must have though, are lesser compared to the operators of conventional machine tools.

THE TECHNICIAN

The third person that will need is the CNC technician. Although this may still be the programmer, it’s more convenient to always have a technical expert on-call because in the long run, you may have more than one CNC machine and you may need to prioritize over the other in case both gets crippled at the same time. Just like the programmer, the technician should also be flexible and articulate. CNC offers a lot of complexity when it’s running right, how much more if it’s behaving badly?

So, if you are having job openings for positions that need to be handling a CNC machine, ask the applicants first to do a demo for you and make sure that during the demo, they know what they’re doing. An exam may also do wonders too. If they have no experience with any kind of CNC machine, it is advisable that you encourage them to take short courses on CNC.

Eighty-hour courses are available online and hey, it’s better than nothing. Experts even encourage employers to hire CNC machinists who have finished AND PASSED the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) assessment just so they could be sure that their CNC machines will go to good hands. After all, a CNC machine is still an asset.

Pros and Cons in Sheet Metal Manipulation with CNC

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The advancement of technology allowed sheet metal designs to be more complicated. However, this level of complication has surpassed human capabilities (as far as mass production is concerned). The required accuracy for the intricacy of the designs can only be provided by Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machines.

The Punch press

An example of a CNC machine that is used in sheet metal manipulation is the punch press. This device uses hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical power to exert immense pressure to shape the metal and cut it according to the designs. Being computer aided, this machine is capable of rapid positioning and therefore, fast production. Manual punch presses compromise speed for accuracy therefore lessening efficiency.

The punch press works by receiving instructions from a program in a computer. This allows the operator to sit back and relax once the cycle (rapid positioning, punching, and switching of tools) has been initiated. These machines perform operations with accuracy that is measured by the thousandth of an inch.

Introduction of these machines into the sheet metal industry sped up production significantly. And to stay competitive in the global market, such an edge would be needed. However, technology finds ways to improve on this.

New devices

Today, presses have newer versions. The turret punch press is capable of sorting sheet metal into their respective design classes. This means that the new punch presses can operate virtually unattended. Steel manufacturing companies invest in these machines should it mean streamlining of their jobs and increasing production capabilities.

Newer CNC machines can even alert operators who are not in the area if a problem crops up during the sheet metal punching process. This happens by enabling the CNC machine to keep track of the operators' phones. Therefore, the workload of the operator is relaxed to the point that he/she does not even need to be in the area of operation.

The drawback

However, these machines do not come cheap. A lot of time, money, and effort have to be spent in order to operate the machine to its fullest capacity. Furthermore, there is a shortage of people who are skilled enough to operate such machines. An operator has to be knowledgeable with BASIC programming language, fundamental machining processes, design awareness, and accessory functions.

Furthermore, knowledge of Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) is a big factor in being able to control such machinery. So the capital that you have to spend on understanding these machines have to be justified with the caliber of the operator that you have.

Another drawback that is present is the compatibility of the machines with the current technology that the company has. If they are incompatible, it takes even more time and money to replace current facilities or to restructure the factory in order t accommodate such devices.

The Conclusion

so, if you're a big company and you want to stay in the race, you have to consider and reconsider investing into these things. The investment may be worth itself a hundred times over but it is a rather risky choice to step into something new. You have to restructure your work schedules, change the requirements for operators, and provide proper training to operators that you want to keep.

These things will cost a lot and will take a while before they reflect what they really are worth.

Weighing Technology's Offers: The Pros and Cons of a CNC Job

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Are you good with computers and looking for a job? Well then, consider being a CNC machine operator. It’s usually easy, full-time and the name isn’t intimidating, right?

If you think that being a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine operator may be a bit out of your reach, think again. You don’t have to be a math wizard or a programming genius to get that position. But don’t jump in just yet! There are a few things that you have to know (and consider! ) before applying for the job.

The first thing that you have to understand is the abbreviation CNC. According to an online encyclopedia, CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, and refers specifically to a computer “controller” that reads G-code instructions and drives a machine tool, a powered mechanical device typically used to fabricate components by the selective removal of material. CNC does numerically directed interpolation of a cutting tool in the work envelope of a machine. The operating parameters of the CNC can be altered via a software load program.

THE PROS

The good thing about being in this job is that the workload is actually light. Operators even complain of boredom because the cycles of CNC machines are all automated. All they have to do is initiate the sequence, sit back, watch for malfunctions, adjust the performance of each machine, and turn them off. If your boss is kind enough to let you use an MP3 player while working, then you sure are lucky.

Another good thing about this job is that job openings for this position will always rise. Technology is moving forward. CNC machining will certainly lead the demand because in CNC, a group of machines can be controlled at the same time. That is exactly what big-time companies want, right? To reduced manual overseeing and just leave it to the machines.

Advantage in this job arena is easy too. Statistics show that you will need only a high school diploma and (more importantly) an experience in CNC operations to gain an edge.

THE CONS

The thing is, when you’re in this line of work, it is repetitive. One gets bored after doing the same mechanical thing over and over again. As time withers, you will reach a point where you will breathlessly wait for the next paycheck and not actually care about the job. It’s emotionally exhausting. Furthermore, programming and operating these machines can be tedious. So, add that up to boredom and you get disproductivity.

Another thing that you should think about is the work environment. You’re going to be working in a factory. And factories are located away from town. If you’re not comfortable with being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this might not be for you.

It can get pretty dangerous. Reports show that although most CNC operators work in a well-lit and smoothly ventilated environment, the high-power machinery poses dangers for them in the form of flying particles of metal and plastic. Also, though most modern machines produce less noise, ear plugs are still recommended by experts.

Lastly, this may not sound like a biggie, but most CNC operators are on their feet all day. They can only sit when the programs are being loaded into the computer. It’s pretty comforting that they receive salaries waaaay bigger than those salesladies.