Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine parts are a manufacturing operation where prearranged software determines the motion of tools.
This operation can be used on various processes such as milling machines, lathes, and grinders.
CNC machined parts can be utilized in a vast range of industries which include automotive, aerospace, and electronics.
Why is CNC Machine Parts Important?
CNC machine parts have revolutionized manufacturing by enhancing production speed and efficiency.
They have boosted precision and come with a preprogrammed design which eases repeatability.
They facilitate the manufacturing of intricate shapes. CNC turning parts can be executed on a wide range of materials such as wood, metal, and plastics. They come in handy in various industries which range from automotive to aeronautical. CNC turning parts are perfect for manufacturing parts that have round parts such as gears.
Computer Numerical Control Lathe Machine Parts
CNC lathe machine is a simple unit that features a computer numerical control panel controls. The performance of a CNC lathe machine is regulated through computer numerical control. The main CNC lathe machine parts include:
- Headstock
- Chuck
- CNC Lathe Bed
- Tailstock
- Foot Switch or Foot Pedals
- Tool Turret
- Tailstock Quill
- CNC Control Panel
Types of CNC Machines
Computer Numerical Control machines are broadly used in the manufacturing sector. They are described as a machining system that is regulated through a computer.
CNC machines come in handy to automate different manufacturing operations that would have been executed manually.
This way, manufacturers can rely on CNC operated machines to eliminate or reduce human error and waste.
There are different types of CNC machines and each is specially designed to execute unique functions as we shall see below.
· CNC Milling Machine
Computer Numerical Control machines are some of the most common units available today. They come with inbuilt cutting and drilling tools.
Materials are inserted in the milling CNC machine where the computer directs the tools to either cut or drill it.
A big percentage of milling CNC machines come with between three to six-axis compositions.
· CNC Lathe Machines
One thing that sets the CNC lathe machine apart from the rest is its capability to rotate materials during operation.
They come with fewer axes compared to CNC milling machines which makes them more compact and smaller.
Lathe CNC machines come with a Lathe located at the center. It operates and drives the material ensuring it achieves the ideal position according to the computer programming.
· CNC Plasma-Cutting Machine
CNC plasma cutting machines are designed to cut materials.
They are, however, different from CNC milling machines because they execute the cutting procedure through the use of a plasma torch.
Plasma cutting machines come with a high powered torch that can cut across rough materials such as metal.
When compared to electric welding machines, plasma cutting CNC machines are more efficient.
While the former produces up to 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit of temperature, plasma torches are specially designed to produce up to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
· CNC Electric Discharge Machine
A CNC electric discharge machine also referred to as a spark CNC machine is a specially designed unit that utilizes electrical sparks to transform materials into the desired shape.
The electrical discharge comes with a corrosive effect which means it can disfigure materials it’s exposed to.
These machines leverage this fact by generating regulated sparks to shape materials.
Materials are put between a top and bottom electrode where the computer determines the amount of electrical discharge the electrodes can discharge.
· CNC Laser-Cutting Machine
CNC Laser-Cutting Machines are different from CNC plasma cutting machines. They are specially designed to cut across tough materials through the use of a laser.
Lasers enhance cutting precision even though they are less robust than plasma torches. CNC laser cutting machines utilize one of these lasers, Neodymium (ND) and yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG,) or CO2.
Finally
With evolving technology, consumer expectations are rising.
Manufacturers have the obligation to provide top-notch materials and parts and this is where CNC machines come in to enhance precision and boost productivity.
