Manufacturing Processes Assignment
Manufacturing Processes Assignment
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1. CNC Machining
1.1.
CNC Machining is a process used in the manufacturing sector that involves the use of computers
to control machine tools. Tools that can be controlled in this manner include lathes, mills, routers
and grinders. The CNC in CNC Machining stands for Computer Numerical Control.
1.2.
The Evolution of NC
It was in 1947 when numerical control was born. It began when John C. Parsons of the Parsons
Corporation, Traverse City, Michigan, a manufacturer of helicopter rotor blades, could not make
his templates fast enough. So, he invented a way of coupling computer equipment with a jig
borer. Mr. Parsons used punched cards to operate his digit Ron system. 1949 was the year of
another Urgent need. The U.S. Air Material command realized that parts for its planes and
missiles were becoming more complex. Also, as the designs were constantly being improved,
changes in the drawing were frequently made. Thus, in their search for methods of faster
production, an Air Force study contract was awarded to the Parsons Corporation. The servo
mechanisms laboratory of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was the
subcontractor. In 1951, MIT took over the complete job, and in 1952, the prototype of todays
NC machine, a modified Cincinnati Hydrotel Milling Machine, was successfully demonstrated.
The term numerical control was originated at MIT.
1.3.
Under CNC Machining, machine tools function through numerical control. A computer program
is customized for an object and the machines are programmed with CNC machining language
(called G-code) that essentially controls all features like feed rate, coordination, location and
speeds. With CNC machining, the computer can control exact positioning and velocity. CNC
machining is used in manufacturing both metal and plastic parts.
First a CAD drawing is created (either 2D or 3D), and then a code is created that the CNC
machine will understand. The program is loaded and finally an operator runs a test of the
program to ensure there are no problems. This trial run is referred to as "cutting air" and it is an
important step because any mistake with speed and tool position could result in a scraped part or
a damaged machine.
There are many advantages to using CNC Machining. The process is more precise than manual
machining, and can be repeated in exactly the same manner over and over again. Because of the
precision possible with CNC Machining, this process can produce complex shapes that would be
almost impossible to achieve with manual machining. CNC Machining is used in the production
of many complex three-dimensional shapes. It is because of these qualities that CNC Machining
is used in jobs that need a high level of precision or very repetitive tasks.
1.4.
There are many different types of CNC Machines used in industry, Such as:
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1.5.
Program Input
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1.6.
For a CNC machine control unit (MCU) decides cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, tool selection,
coolant on off and tool paths. The MCU issues commands in form of numeric data to motors
that position slides and tool accordingly.
1.7.
Two computer-based systems which impact the use of CNC technology are CAD(computer
aided design )and CAM (computer aided manufacturing). A computer aided design, or CAD,
system uses computers to graphically create product designs and models. These designs can be
reviewed, revised, and refined for optimum end use and application. Once finalized, the CAD
design is then exported to a computer aided manufacturing, or CAM, system. CAM systems
assist in all phases of manufacturing a product, including process planning, production planning,
machining, scheduling, management and quality control.
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Advantages:
High Repeatability and Precision e.g. Aircraft parts
Volume of production is very high
Complex contours/surfaces need to be machined. etc
Flexibility in job change, automatic tool settings, less scrap
More safe, higher productivity, better quality
Less paper work, faster prototype production, reduction in lead times
Disadvantages:
Costly setup, skilled operators
Computers, programming knowledge required
Maintenance is difficult
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