Computer Numerical Control

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What to Look for in a Cnc Manufacturer

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.

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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.

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By: webmaster12

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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.

CNC Machine Setup and Operation

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Computer Numerical Control Machines are sophisticated instruments that only trained CNC operators should operate them. There are certain rules and guidelines to consider if you are planning to use a CNC machine by yourself.

CNC checklist before startup

Before starting up the Computer Numerical Control Machine, there are safety rules that must be considered first. First important aspect before starting up the CNC machine is to ensure your own safety, therefore wearing protective gear, such as eye glasses and short sleeved shirts is an important dress code during CNC operation. You should also be careful whenever you are handling tools and sharp edged work pieces to avoid any accidents. You must also ensure that the cutting tools are fastened in the machine spindle to avoid any movement during the cutting operation.

Actual Startup, Operation and Machine Setup of the CNC

The Computer Numerical Machine startup procedure varies depending with the type of machine being used but usually there is a main power switch or a circuit breaker to turn it on. Some machines also require hydraulics or air pressure before it starts up.

When the Computer Numerical Machine starts up, the machine usually starts at its Machine Home Position. The Machine Home Position allows the control and the machine to have a preset starting position for all its axes. After startup, the CNC machine must be sent to this position before the work begins. This position will later be changed to an appropriate location whenever you are machining a particular part of a product.

The Tool Length Offset Value or TLO is the distance from the tip of the tool from the spindle in the Home Position. The TLO must be set for each tool in the current job. The TLO can be set using a height gage, fixture location, as well as the reference tool. When these values are determined, they are stored in the Controller to be used during the program operation.

After setting the Tool Length Offset Value it is time to setup a part origin of a CNC machine. Setting up the part origin on a CNC machine is the same as setting up a conventional machine. It usually involves positioning the axes to a point where the plan designates as its origin. There are many ways to locate the position on the reference point, it is by using edge finders, wigglers or magnifying glasses.

After setting up the whole system for the Computer Numerical Control, it is time to Load the program to the machine. Program loading is different for each machine. Some machines have tape readers to input the program into the Computer Numerical Control Machine’s memory. Newer machines have internal or external floppy devices to input the program to the machine. After the program is loaded to the machine, the CNC machine is now ready to use.

There are certain instances when you have to change the tools in the Computer Numerical Control manually during machine operations. When a certain machining operation is complete, the program will move the aces to the tool change position and display the next tool needed. It is now the job of the Machine operator to remove and replace it with the next tool.

Extra Care must be taken whenever you are starting operations with the CNC machine, any mistake taken during the part of the operation may lead to serious injuries from the machine operator.

Meet Your "Other" Employees: The Basic Parts of a CNC Machine

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If you carve your name on a wood using a very sophisticated font, you’re lucky if you’ll finish your first name in 24 hours perfectly. Years ago, wood crafting and metal crafting are very expensive massive- labor industries because every aspect of the manufacturing is done by hand. There was minimal machine intervention but the designs were still as intricate.

Today, with the help of technology, wood carving, metal molding, cutting and even finishing can be done simultaneously with minimal hands involved. In fact, a company is deemed unproductive if it mass produces products every day BY HAND.

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are in demand in industries where hands are better off pushing buttons than doing actual labor. Businessmen are raving about this wonder-machine because it is accurate, speedy and flexible.

The CNC machine is actually a factory of its own. There are different parts that have specific functions. Let’s get to know the “factory workers”.

THE VICE

The Vice is what holds the material which is to be cut or molded. It is important that the vice must be tight; so the material will be held securely. When the CNC machine starts to operate, the material will dash out of the vice if it is not secured. The vice usually works like a clamp that needs to hold the material not just securely but also in the right position.

THE GUARD

The Guard—just like any other guard—works like a “protection” to the person operating the CNC machine. Once the CNC starts working, scraps of the material can “shoot off” at high speed. This is very risky for the operator if a piece hits him/her. The guard completely covers all the hazardous sides of the CNC machine.

THE CHUCK

The chuck holds the cutting tool. Sophisticated designs require maximum chuck precision so the actual design can be realized.

THE MOTOR

The motor rotates the chuck at very high speed. It is hidden and protected inside the machine. You have to take care of this part very carefully. Nowadays, cooling and lubrication is automated in most CNC machines. Usually, if this part doesn’t function well, it is the most difficult to treat. It is advised to have a CNC technician handy all the time.

THE LATHE BED

Like the sea bed, this is the sturdy base of the CNC machine. It is connected to the headstock and aids the carriage and tailstock to be parallel with the spindle’s axis. It is securely bolted so it remains unshaken by the vibration of the machine when it starts operating.

THE CUTTING TOOL/ CUTTER

This is the where the first-level shaping occurs. The cutter is usually made from high quality steel so as to cut the specific material fed to the CNC machine.

As a businessman, it is important that you get to know your employees, bond with them and earn their respect without scaring them. When you have CNC machines working for you, it is equally important that you understand them well. Do not be fooled by the CNC machine salesmen who court your interest because they are usually just after your purchase.

You have to master what comprises these machines, what makes them dysfunctional and most of all, what makes them stay in your company. Just don’t start talking to them. That would be really, really, dysfunctional.

Data Transfer Methods of CNC

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A CNC machine cannot function without a program. And a program cannot make its way to the machine without an effective data transfer system. So, what are the methods of data transfer and how effective are they in conveying data from one point to the next?

Punched tape

The first data transfer method is the punched tape. It consists of a long strip of paper with holes punched in it to store data. The holes represent a set of data that tells the machine how to move and what to do.

This method has proven to be very versatile and very useful. It has proven to withstand the test of time as numerous magnetic storage devices have deteriorated over time even to the extent of being unreadable while punched tape has been shown to be fine decades and perhaps even centuries later. Repair is also not a problem as specially designed splices can put two end together virtually unchanged. Furthermore, punched tape can be visually decoded should the need arise. This means that human accessibility is also not a problem.

Floppy Disk

While punched tape is quite a long roll of paper, a floppy disk is a small magnetic storage device that is more space efficient than punched tape. It can also be used to store simple programs.

Floppy disks virtually revolutionized the way data could be stored and transferred from one point to another. It allowed users to store and transfer data faster than punched tape allowed. Furthermore, the data within a floppy could be easily edited at any point as long as you have the proper program to read it. However, this method has proven to be quite problematic in the long run as floppies have a tendency to degrade alarmingly fast. A floppy could be unreadable after only 3 years.

RS232

This method is actually a set of standards for serial binary signals that connects between computers, terminals, and modems. This is a fast and efficient way to transfer data.

This cable connects a CNC machine to a computer that has floppy disk support thus eliminating the need for punched tape. This allows the operator to input data remotely and even while accomplishing other tasks. However, it need to be used in conjunction with an effective data storage device so as to have backups in case of emergencies.

Networks

Networks are a set of computers that are linked together to make data sharing easier. In an industrial scenario, networks allow a number of different users to individually create a program for the machine to run on.

This method allows multiple users to access and transfer data remotely. This allows for a faster and more efficient check-and-balance system for the programmer and the data verifier. Furthermore, different parts of the program can be completed by different programmers and then compiled by one user. This makes program creation a fast and easy process.

Manual Data Input (MDI)

MDI allows users to input commands directly into the CNC machine’s memory. This may seem to be an effective way of telling the machine what to do but it actually has a lot of drawbacks to it.

Despite it being the fastest way of telling the machine what to do, it is also a very risky and tedious operation as it requires the use of the machine’s terminal. Furthermore, the construction of a program is not as fast as opposed to the network method. It only allows one user to access the machine thus making it a long and drawn-out process.

Another disadvantage that comes with MDI is that it limits the operator to only one task at a time. However, MDI allows the most control over the machine compared to other methods.

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.

When To Shove People Out To Make Way For CNC

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The normal businessman’s mind is always geared towards profit, profit, profit. No matter how much the company spends, at the end of the day, the revenues should exceed the expenses (including tax). Although innovation is a major requirement to a business' growth, many small-time businesses just lie back in comfort. They think that as long as they're earning and they have a steady market, it’s all right.

This holds true for businessmen who are contented with being small-time (though it's hard to find one). However, for businesses that are aggressive towards getting ahead, acquiring a CNC machine seems to top their list of priorities.

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. A CNC machine is a computer "director" which is composed of machine tools that read a specific set of instructions (in G-code) and is able to “direct” certain manufacturing tasks repetitively. The top industries that use the CNC technology are the Metal and Woodworking industries.

If you are a regular member of a techie forum for entrepreneurs, CNC may be showered with praises because of its performance. Most businessmen also swear by saving a lot of money and time when they started employing CNC technology in their production processes. However, if you are still considering CNC at the expense of the jobs of your employees, it is best that you prefer CNC at two levels: the logical level and the emotional level.

LOGIC-WISE

CNC machines do specific instructions. They will never assume anything, nor rebel against the program loaded to them. Imagine the security of knowing that you will "reap" exactly what you "sowed". Let's say, something goes wrong during the process. Assuming the machine is in perfect condition, you CANNOT put the blame on it because it just performed what you told it to do so.

Secondly, there is the blanket of consistency. It provides a certain level of safety and ease to the head supervisor. If you have overseen the operations today, most likely, it will be exactly the same tomorrow. The feeling of knowing what to expect is always a good thing, especially when there's money involved.

Lastly, there's speed. CNC machines do not stop to think. After you do the thinking, they do the power-jobs that they need to do. It’s that simple. There is a minimized set-up time and back-job time pocket.

What you will find a flaw about CNC though, is that logic-wise, CNC machines cannot think of better ways to perform a task (IF there is a better way). A CNC machine is purely mechanical; when it was sold to you; the salesmen never mentioned the word “creative” or "innovative". I hope you did not miss that.

EMOTION-WISE

CNC machines are also assets of the company. When assets like this are purchased, there is little or no emotional investment that goes with it. You won't even train it! It is expected to do certain tasks and that’s saving you a lot of time from all the explaining, demonstration and reminding.

Also, when a CNC machine is performing its task, it is void of any emotion. So no matter how hot the weather is, or how noisy the workplace is, the CNC machine will do its job just like any other day. It is different as compared to people - who have the tendency to space-out when doing very mechanical and tedious jobs.

Although the CNC may want to, it also cannot complain. That's really convenient. What you will need to note now is your electric bill. Beware, for when getting CNC machines, it may betray you in the form of lofty bills. All the emotions you’ve saved might just be unleashed.