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CNC Machining

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a manufacturing process that utilizes computerized controls and precision machinery to produce complex parts and components. It is widely used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical, and more.  

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  1. CAD/CAM Programming: The CNC machining process begins with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). CAD software is used to create a 3D model or design of the desired part, while CAM software generates the toolpaths and instructions for the CNC machine.

  2. Material Selection: Based on the design requirements, the appropriate material is selected for the part. CNC machines can work with a wide range of materials, including metals (such as aluminum, steel, titanium), plastics, wood, and composites.

  3. Machine Setup: The CNC machine is prepared for the machining process. This involves mounting the workpiece (raw material) securely onto the machine's workholding device, such as a vise, chuck, or fixture. The cutting tools necessary for the specific machining operations are also installed in the machine.

  4. Machining Operations: The CNC machine executes a series of precise machining operations based on the programmed instructions. These operations may include:

    • Milling: The cutting tool rotates while the workpiece remains stationary or vice versa. This removes material to create various shapes, features, holes, slots, and contours.

    • Turning: The workpiece rotates while the cutting tool removes material. Turning is used to create cylindrical shapes, such as shafts, rods, and threads.

    • Drilling: The cutting tool creates holes in the workpiece by rotating or moving axially. CNC machines can perform drilling operations with different drill bits or specialized tools.

    • Boring: Boring enlarges existing holes or creates cylindrical cavities with high precision.

    • Threading: CNC machines can tap internal threads or create external threads on the workpiece.

    • Facing, chamfering, and other operations: CNC machines can perform additional operations such as facing (creating flat surfaces), chamfering (beveling edges), and more.

  5. Tool Changes and Tool Path Optimization: During the machining process, the CNC machine may require tool changes for different operations or to accommodate specific tool requirements. Tool paths are optimized to ensure efficient material removal and minimize machining time.

  6. Quality Control and Inspection: Throughout the CNC machining process, quality control measures are taken to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the finished parts. This may involve in-process inspections, dimensional measurements, and the use of quality assurance techniques such as coordinate measuring machines (CMM) or optical inspection systems.

  7. Finishing Operations: Depending on the design specifications, additional finishing operations such as deburring, polishing, sanding, or surface treatments may be applied to achieve the desired appearance and functionality of the part.

 

CNC machining offers several advantages, including high precision, repeatability, scalability, and the ability to produce complex geometries with tight tolerances. It enables efficient production, reduces manual labor, and ensures consistent part quality.

When seeking CNC machining services, it's important to collaborate with experienced CNC machinists or machining shops that have the necessary expertise, advanced CNC machines, and quality control measures in place. Communicating your design requirements, material specifications, and quality expectations will help ensure that your project is executed accurately and meets your desired outcomes.  Our engineers will work closely with you to make sure your designs are to your exact specifications and will not proceed until it is perfect. Advanced Precision Machine has an Engineer on sight so your project stays in one place from start to finish.

 

That’s what makes Advanced stand out above the rest.

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