Computer numerical control (CNC) is the system by which an operator can control the machining work of a tool . Management is carried out through a control panel and a software program . The orders executed from here reach the machine so that it complies with the established guidelines.
The numerical control is, therefore, responsible for controlling all the movements of the machine . Among them, not only the cut and its precision, but also the speed, the type of movement, etc. In this way, much more precise, exact and personalized results are achieved.
The operation of the CNC
The operation of computerized numerical control is based on positioning on the X, Y and Z axes . From these three axes, different automatic machining jobs can be carried out on a part. The most common are cutting, drilling, milling, threading or roughing.
The first task that is carried out is the design of the part by computer using the CAD program . CAD (computer aided design) software is used to create and modify any design. A drawing technique with which to design the different properties in terms of color, layer, style and material of a piece.
When the final design is available, the operator goes to the control panel of the machining machine to indicate the necessary orders for manufacturing the part. The movements that the machine will make are integrated into the CNC through codes with various specific keys.
The main commands that are indicated to the tool are the forward speed, depth, start or stop . However, everything will depend on both the machine being used and the part and its design that you want to obtain. Tool changes, positioning and other direction variables in movements can also be included among these orders.
It is for this reason that each machine has its own different CNC program . Lathes and milling machines are the most common machining machines. But, within them, there are a series of guys who do different jobs with specific pieces. Computer numerical control can be different in all of these tools.
Uses and applications of Computer Numerical Control
CNC machining is already used in large companies as well as in small workshops, factories and businesses . Precisely, it is used in joinery and carpentry workshops, for interior design work, industrial design, the textile industry and the manufacture of all types of metal parts.
Large industrial sectors use CNC machines as essential elements. The aeronautical, aerospace, steel, wind, automotive, etc. sectors. They use machines of this type to manufacture all their parts and components . Turbines, propellers, fuselage elements, parts for cars, ships, trains, etc.
CNC technology is also used for the electrical industry , as well as in anyone dedicated to the manufacturing or extraction of metal . In reality, any type of industry today requires the use of computerized numerical control.
All companies that carry out cutting, carving, drilling, threading or roughing work on larger or smaller pieces will use CNC in their processes.
Advantages of using CNC
Computerized numerical control is a system that has completely revolutionized the industry . Its use provides a series of more than notable advantages to different industrial sectors.
The main advantage has to do with the high production speed . Factories, workshops and industries that use CNC machining tools have gained productivity. In fact, there are systems that can work 24 hours a day and at a very high production level to meet the demands and needs of the market.
CNC machining also provides great versatility and flexibility . The different commands executed from the CNC control panel allow the machine to perform different jobs. Thus, a large number of designs can be obtained and work on pieces of different sizes and shapes .
On the other hand, the use of CNC allows better finishes to be achieved on the surface part of the piece . The degree of precision and accuracy is maximum . Computerized work allows the risk of error to be minimal, ensuring that the manufactured part has a better final polish. In addition, the operator only has to enter the data into the CNC control panel for the machine to do all the work. job. This keeps the worker's manipulation minimal, greatly reducing the risks of a possible accident . CNC machines are much safer than manual ones.
