Some people identify computer numerical control as CNC. This has become the latest industrial buzzword in manufacturing units, where state-of-the-art technology is involved in operating controlling machines such as lathes, routers, mills, and grinders. Still, everything and more is operated through a computer without any manual intervention. It is a time-saving, money-spinning venture. This high tech technology is spreading fast as it helps in saving money also offers accuracy and precision. Computer plays the principal role and is deemed the central hub for operating and managing all the machine tools. When there is no utilization of carriers, handwheels, and levers undoubtedly, the labor force will be amply benefitted
What is CNC machining technology?
- As said earlier, CNC is the latest catchphrase, but what is this CNC machining technology anyway, and why it is popular in the manufacturing sector. With the right utilization of computers, now tools and equipment can be used and operated.
- At first, the design is prepared using CAD or Computer-Aided Design Software. Then the design is put for conversion using a computer, which converts the design into numbers.
- Eventually, the numbers become the coordinates of a graph.
- The cutter’s movement and motion will also be controlled, and CNC is undoubtedly an exceptionally designed technology, which operates machine tools, moving them the way numerical, controls them.
- Undergoing the high precision process, Plastic and metal parts are manufactured where computerized programs control the whole process, thus maintaining unmistaken precision and accuracy.
- Here accuracy and precision are optimum.
- Here, the manufacturing process is flexible and bendy; the neatness of the procedure permits contour machining and the construction of small and difficult integral components, even those with comprehensive, many-sided three-dimensional profiles.
Advantages of CNC
The following are the advantages of CNC machining-
- Less knowledge can operate CNC; nothing like manually milling machines lathes were skillful and trained engineers. Designs that are programmed thus can be manufactured even thousands of times. All the prepared items will be flawlessly the same.
- By perking up the software from time to time, CNC machines can very well be updated to drive the machines.
- While accessing the virtual software, training tutorials in CNCs can be accessed. Using the software, the trainee will be allowed to practice using the CNC machine on the screen. Simply put, this software is similar to computer games.
- One person can very well supervise several CNC machines; the moment they are programmed, they can, by and large, be left to work by themselves. Often the cutting tools require replacing, and CNC can be utilized for that. Contemporary design software permits the designer so that the manufacturer could get a simulated idea. This saves time, energy, and money.
- A trained engineer can prepare different components, but if studied properly, all will never be the same. They will appear dissimilar.
Disadvantage of CNC
- Compare to manually operated machines, CNC machines are more costly. Still, surprisingly, the cost is dropping down, so it is feasible for small and medium business establishments to access this technology.
- However, few think investment in CNC will lead to unemployment. As comparatively fewer workers are required for operating such technology.
The scope for training and talent skill has become limited, as supervising CNC machining needs less engineering skills. Therefore, individuals are learning less to get into the vocation.