What you need to know about CNC machining

CNC plastic machining uses the latest CNC techniques. The milling machines used are thus automated and computer controlled to machine a block of material to obtain a part. The absence of mold causes a reduction in cost and time, and allows to obtain identical parts and in the right material. This makes it a method of choice for unit productions, for example for visual and functional tests. Here you can get the right Fanuc cnc.

History of CNC machining

The CNC uses the technique of machining that has been developed from the 18 th century. In fact, in 1751, the first 'metal frame trolley' was invented, the first of a long series of machines whose aim is to mechanically carry out more precise operations than using traditional techniques. This is the beginning of industrialization.

But it was not until the Cold War that we looked at the development of automation. That's when Parsons Works is hired by the Navy in the United States to increase the productivity of its helicopter blade production line. John T Parsons will then motorize the axes of the machines responsible for manufacturing these blades. Then working with IBM, he will study the possibilities of ordering by computer these machines. These are the premises of the CNC machining method.

In 1952, Richard KEGG, working in conjunction with MIT, developed the first CNC milling machine - the Cincinnati Milacron Hydrotel. Five years later, in 1958, he filed the patent for the Motor Controlled Apparatus for Positioning Machine Tool. This is the commercial birth of this technology.

Definition of CNC machining

With CNC plastic machining, the machining function is determined by a program, which controls the movements of the tools on the workpiece. It defines the axis of rotation of the milling cutter, and the axis of rotation of the workpiece during turning. The machine, a three or five-axis the milling machine is fully automated and computer controlled.

The 3D file entered in the computer will indicate the path of the cutter, which will cut into the mass the desired part. This is why this technique is part of so-called "subtractive" methods, fast and cheap when it comes to a production of one or ten pieces.

But economies of scale being small, this technique is not recommended for medium and large series. It remains adapted to productions up to ten pieces for visual and functional tests because the pieces are identical and produced in the right material. Many finishes are also possible.