CNC (Computer Numerical Control) tools are essentially automated machines that are based on a main electronic processor for the positioning and spindling of their cutting or milling head. CNC machines may be lathes, milling centers, drillers, or multitasking turning centers that feature "live" tools. Some of the latest developments in the field also include plasma and water jet cutters.
The commands given to the cutting head are of positioning nature, but they can also regulate the rotation speed, use of cutting oils, or workpiece movement on a rotating index table. For this reason, there are no manual controlled wheels or levers at all. The commands can be either stored in an electronic medium connected to the CNC computer or automatically generate a sequence of commands based on a given 3D model exported from CAD software.
Advantages of CNC Machine Tools
Using CNC machines generates a series of benefits that are very important for the efficient running of any modern workshop business. The increasing demands in the metalworking sector call for fast production combined with precise workpiece geometry, something that can only be achieved through the use of CNC machines.
1. Workshops don't require as many employees as before to run efficiently, as one supervisor can monitor the proper operation of multiple CNC machines.
2. While lathe and turning center operators need to practice for years before they start producing high quality and fidelity workpieces, CNC can deliver top notch results from day one. The supervisors need a minimum technical training that doesn't require much time or resources.
3. CNCs are able to produce many items of the exact same design, without dimensional and geometrical deviations. Human operators, on the other hand, can't achieve such high levels of consistency no matter their skills or experience.
4. There is no limit as to how long a CNC machine can run without stopping, other than the maintenance sessions. Automated machines of this kind don't need breaks or rest periods and they keep their production rates the same, no matter their continuous operating hours.
5. Depending on its geometry, a design may require extensive and constant measuring during the processing. CNC production rates don't get affected by this factor at all.
6. CNCs that feature "live" tools can materialize items that pose a challenge to even the most experienced machinists out there.
7. A multi-tasking CNC can produce an item that otherwise would require processing from various different machines. This can streamline the production of a demanding item and dramatically drop its production times.
Some Drawbacks of CNC Equipment
Although CNCs offer such great benefits to workshops, they also bring some hindrances that are important enough and require serious consideration.
1. The most obvious drawback of CNCs is their acquisition cost. CNCs will only offer a quick return of investment for workshops that are expected to gross tens of thousands per month. The good news though is that CNCs are gradually becoming cheaper.
2. Another negative effect is the steady decline of the need to actually calculate and put the machinist engineering skill into practice. This quickly leads to the decay of the skills of expert employees working in a workshop.
3. There is a chance that a CNC is badly calibrated or the workpiece bed gets somehow misaligned. This can lead to countless of defective items before someone notices.
The commands given to the cutting head are of positioning nature, but they can also regulate the rotation speed, use of cutting oils, or workpiece movement on a rotating index table. For this reason, there are no manual controlled wheels or levers at all. The commands can be either stored in an electronic medium connected to the CNC computer or automatically generate a sequence of commands based on a given 3D model exported from CAD software.
Advantages of CNC Machine Tools
Using CNC machines generates a series of benefits that are very important for the efficient running of any modern workshop business. The increasing demands in the metalworking sector call for fast production combined with precise workpiece geometry, something that can only be achieved through the use of CNC machines.
1. Workshops don't require as many employees as before to run efficiently, as one supervisor can monitor the proper operation of multiple CNC machines.
2. While lathe and turning center operators need to practice for years before they start producing high quality and fidelity workpieces, CNC can deliver top notch results from day one. The supervisors need a minimum technical training that doesn't require much time or resources.
3. CNCs are able to produce many items of the exact same design, without dimensional and geometrical deviations. Human operators, on the other hand, can't achieve such high levels of consistency no matter their skills or experience.
4. There is no limit as to how long a CNC machine can run without stopping, other than the maintenance sessions. Automated machines of this kind don't need breaks or rest periods and they keep their production rates the same, no matter their continuous operating hours.
5. Depending on its geometry, a design may require extensive and constant measuring during the processing. CNC production rates don't get affected by this factor at all.
6. CNCs that feature "live" tools can materialize items that pose a challenge to even the most experienced machinists out there.
7. A multi-tasking CNC can produce an item that otherwise would require processing from various different machines. This can streamline the production of a demanding item and dramatically drop its production times.
Some Drawbacks of CNC Equipment
Although CNCs offer such great benefits to workshops, they also bring some hindrances that are important enough and require serious consideration.
1. The most obvious drawback of CNCs is their acquisition cost. CNCs will only offer a quick return of investment for workshops that are expected to gross tens of thousands per month. The good news though is that CNCs are gradually becoming cheaper.
2. Another negative effect is the steady decline of the need to actually calculate and put the machinist engineering skill into practice. This quickly leads to the decay of the skills of expert employees working in a workshop.
3. There is a chance that a CNC is badly calibrated or the workpiece bed gets somehow misaligned. This can lead to countless of defective items before someone notices.
About the Author:
Absolute Machine Tools, Inc. offers many options in CNC machines. Learn more on their website about their cnc machines for sale, including lathes, deep hole drilling machines, boring machines and more!
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