CNC machining refers to the vanguard process of rapid prototyping of both high and low-yield precision within the manufacturing sector. CNC machining makes it possible to construct rapid but highly accurate projects from different materials that do not suit other types of rapid prototyping manufacturing like 3D printing.

This piece will take a deep dive into CNC machining by providing a complete guide to the important cutting-edge process.

Basic Components for CNC Machining

At a basic level, CNC machines can easily be broken into 3 main categories, including:

Software: The installed software in a CNC machine works by interpreting the 3D CAD design. It also translates the information into two codes that the CNC machine control unit understands. These two codes are M-code and G-code.

The CNC Machine control unit: The CNC machine control unit is programmed with the G-code and M-code. These two codes provide the machine with the recommended pertinent information like the use of coolants, when to stop the current program and tool change.

The processing tools: The processing tool represents the CNC machine tool responsible for performing different machining operations.

CNC Machining Processes

The process involved in creating a CAD design, translating the design into the CNC program and having the machine use the program to create a part can be broken into four important steps – This includes:

#1 Designing the CAD Model

Every CNC machining procedure begins with a 3D solid CAD design creation. When designing the 3D CAD design, you first have to decide on the geometry type to follow. With a 3D solid model, it’s wise to use surfaces instead of solids as they take up lesser space and offer a broader editing option leading to faster modelling time.

Once you have the right geometry, the next step is to decide the quantity of material to be removed from the surface. Once every surface is defined, it’s time to set the cutting path to make it possible to machine the designed part.

#2 Converting the CAD File into a CNC Program

Once you complete the CAD file, it needs to be turned into a G-code – A language that the CNC machine best understands. The conversion process will involve sending a CAD file through the CAM program, a Computer-Aided Manufacturing program. The program helps in converting the CAD files into a G-code. Here you can use the manual approach or robot approach.

#3 Preparing your CNC Machine

Once a CAD program is converted into the CNC program, you can upload it into your CNC machine. Here both the G-code and M-code are put to action. G-code controls the speed and movements of the cutting head. M-code covers all the relevant information not directly related to the speed and movement of cutting heads.

#4 Executing the Final Machining Operation

Once the CNC machine is prepared with both the G-code and M-code, the machining operation will have to be executed. Having set up the recommended parameters, the G90 commands will then be executed. The command tells the machine the subsequent commands to reference the absolute machine coordinates and not the relative movements.

Finally

At Cheshire Seals and Components, our professionals have undergone the best training. This gives them an upper hand as far as delivering the best CNC machining services is concerned. They have mastered the know-how and hacks of CNC machines.