CNC 101: The Essentials

Today, computer numerical control (CNC) machines are commonplace on the shop floor. We use CNC machining techniques to fabricate products comprised of metals, thermoplastics, and wood if we need to use it. The process generally involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software for automated motion control when cutting or milling parts.

Today, we take for granted many types of CNC machines and machining processes developed over the years. Without the benefit of CNC technology, critical industries, such as aerospace and defense, wouldn’t meet the military’s strict quality and safety standards.

But with the advent of CNC machining techniques, we can now ensure that our products with meet specifications within a fraction of a centimeter and degree.

Without delving too much into the technicalities of modern manufacturing, the goal of this article is to give you an overview of the essentials of CNC technology as a high-level process.

Here’s the most crucial vital information we think you need to know about how CNC works, what it does best, and what it won’t do well.

What is CNC machining?

Before CAD came around, it was challenging to fabricate products reliably and at scale at an industrial volume.

Often, manufacturers need to design several variations of a product to determine if production capacity and processes could meet quality and safety standards.

But with CNC technology, software control everything during machining processes, everything from spindle speed to the motions and angles of the cutting tool. It’s all about precision when it comes to CNC machining.

While CNC machines aren’t necessarily robots in the traditional sense, they automate and speed-up processes that we used to complete manually, making fabrication a time-consuming endeavor for a machinist to finish on schedule.

To read more, read the full article here: https://www.petermanfirm.com/cnc-101-the-essentials/