CNC Turning is a company that specializes in providing CNC turning and machining services to our customers.
Equipped with advanced CNC lathe equipment, it uses computer programs to control the workpiece in a rotating state for cutting and machining.
This method of machining helps the users to make all kinds of precision parts and workpieces that can be used in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical equipment.
The customization of CNC is done by using different types of tools and appropriate materials to meet the needs of the customers.
It is also very important to choose the right material, as different materials have different properties and characteristics (metal, plastic, or composite).
Overview of CNC Turning Parts
Familiarizing yourself with the various parts of a CNC lathe is essential to mastering the CNC turning process.
The parts of a CNC lathe will vary depending on the manufacturer, type, and quality.
However, there are some key parts that are common to all CNC lathes, including the following:
Control Unit
The controller is the brain of the entire machine, taking input commands from the operator and translating them into actual machine movements. The control unit usually consists of a computer and control software that can write and modify machining programs and adjust parameters such as speed and position.
Spindle
The spindle is the part of the CNC lathe that holds and rotates the workpiece. The spindle is usually driven by a motor, which can control the speed and direction according to program instructions.
Turret
A turret is a platform that holds and indexes cutting tools. It can hold multiple tools, and the rotation of the turret allows different tools to be brought to the workpiece for different cutting operations.
Tool Holder
A tool holder is an adjustable device used to hold a tool in the holder. Tool holders usually have multiple axial adjustments that allow fine-tuning of the height, angle, and position of the tool to ensure cutting accuracy.
Cutting tools
Cutting tools are components used to remove material from a workpiece.
They can be tools of different shapes and sizes, such as turning tools, milling cutters, drills, etc. The right tool is selected according to the machining requirements.
These components work together to enable CNC lathes to perform machining with high speed and accuracy through precise programs and instructions.
Familiarity with these components, as well as their functions and usage, is essential to properly operate a CNC lathe and achieve precision machining.
How Does a CNC Turning Machine Work?
During CNC machining, a computer program controls the movement of the machine tool and the motion of the tool to ensure machining accuracy.
This precise control allows for fine details as well as highly accurate dimensions to meet a variety of customization needs.
Creation of CAD Model
The first step in machining with a CNC lathe is to create a 3D model of the product using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software, which accurately describes the geometry and dimensions of the desired part.
Programming Language
The operator then converts the CAD model into a CNC programming language (e.g. G-code), which contains a series of operating instructions to control the movement and machining of the CNC lathe.
These instructions include details such as moving the position of the tool and setting the depth and speed of cut.
Loading G-code into the CNC
Once programming is complete, the operator loads the created G-code into the CNC.
The CNC is the core component of the lathe that controls the way the lathe moves and performs machining operations.
Before performing machining operations, the operator needs to set up the machine.
This includes installing cutting tools, calibrating the workpiece position, and selecting the proper cutting parameters.
These settings ensure that the lathe can execute the machining operation commands correctly.
Once the setup is complete, the operator starts the CNC and the lathe begins to execute the machining operations.
The CNC directs the lathe’s spindle box to rotate the workpiece and move the tool to cut the material into the desired shape and size.
Once machining is complete, the operator can remove the final product from the CNC lathe and perform a quality check.
If improvements or adjustments to the machining are needed, the operator can modify the CAD model and G-code accordingly.
Extent of Materials Employed in CNC Turning
CNC turning involves a wide range of machining materials. The following describes some of the common materials and characteristics used for CNC machining.
Metal Materials
Aluminum: Aluminum is a widely used material and is relatively common in CNC turning. It has a low density and good cutting properties, making it suitable for making lightweight parts and high-precision products.
Steel: Steel is one of the common metal materials used for CNC turning. It has good strength and wear resistance and is suitable for making parts with high load requirements.
Stainless steel: Stainless steel has corrosion resistance and high strength, making it suitable for parts with high durability requirements.
Copper: Copper is a material with good thermal conductivity and is suitable for making parts that are thermally conductive or require electrical conductivity.
Titanium: Titanium has good strength and lightweight characteristics, suitable for making parts with high strength and corrosion resistance requirements.
Plastic Materials
Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a commonly used plastic material with high strength and abrasion resistance, and is suitable for parts requiring high durability.
Polyethylene: Polyethylene is a low-density material with good abrasion and corrosion resistance, and is suitable for the manufacture of lightweight parts.
Polyvinylidene fluoride (PTFE): PTFE has excellent heat and corrosion resistance and is suitable for manufacturing parts for high-temperature or chemical environments.
Other Materials
Wood: CNC turning can also be used to process wood. Wood has a low density and good decorative qualities, making it suitable for the manufacture of furniture and artwork, among other things.
Ceramics: Ceramics have a high degree of hardness and wear resistance, making them suitable for parts that require a high degree of precision.
Each material has its unique characteristics and applicability.
When selecting a material, the most suitable one needs to be decided based on the requirements of the part and the application environment.
In addition, during CNC turning, it is also necessary to use different cutting tools and machining parameters for different material types to achieve the best-finished product.
CNC Materials Cost Balance
It’s important to understand the types and limitations of materials used by CNC turning companies, as this will have a direct impact on the quality of your product and its ultimate cost-effectiveness.
Suitability
Different materials have different characteristics and properties, including strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and thermal conductivity.
You need to make sure that the materials used by your CNC turning company are suitable for the specific application.
Cost Effectiveness
It is important to understand the cost difference between different materials as it will directly affect the cost of production.
Certain materials may be more expensive, while others may be more affordable, but may sacrifice some performance.
By understanding the benefits and limitations of different materials, you can find a balance between performance and cost.
Availability
Some materials may be difficult to obtain or in limited supply in your area.
When choosing a CNC turning company, it is important to know if they can provide the materials you need.
Some companies may have specific supply chains and partnerships that can provide you with specific materials.
Technical Requirements
Different materials have different machining requirements for CNC turning.
For example, certain materials may require specific cutting tools or machining parameters, and the CNC turning company will need to have the skills and experience to ensure that the selected material is handled and machined correctly.
Quality Control
Different materials require different quality control measures to ensure the quality of the final product.
When choosing a CNC turning company, it is important to understand their methods and standards for quality control.
By understanding the types and limitations of materials used by CNC turning companies, it is possible to choose the partner that best suits your needs.
And ensure that the final product meets your expectations and requirements.
