NC AND CNC

z MACHINES

SIDHANTH S NAIR
ROLL NO.51
S6 ,IE
TVE21IE060
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INTRODUCTION
 NC machines and CNC machines refer to numerical control machines and
computer numerical control machines, respectively. For jobs requiring
precision and pre-defined dimensions, NC and CNC machines can be used.

 The collection of instructions used to drive numerical machines takes the form
of letters, numbers, and symbols

 In NC machines instructions are fed via punched cards,whereas in case of cnc

machines programs are fed directly into the computer via a keyboard
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NC MACHINES

 NC (Numerical Control) machines are automated systems that rely on

computer programming and precise numerical data to control their
movements and operations. By eliminating the need for manual intervention
and enhancing precision, NC machines have drastically improved production
efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability in various industries

 A set of predefined alphanumeric codes are used to control the movements

and operations of specific tools. These codes carry essential information for
guiding the tool's movements. Unlike traditional machines, where manual
labourers manually control various parameters such as motor speed, feed
rate, rotation direction, and depth of cut. NC machines utilise a control panel
to govern all these parameters efficiently and precisely.
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TYPES OF CNC SYSTEM
 There are three types of NC machines:

Traditional Numerical Control (NC Machine)

 NC machines are an evolution of conventional machines and can operate using a tape reader
system. Instructions for desired operations are punched onto a tape, enabling the NC machine
to perform the specified tasks.

Computer Numerical Control (CNC Machine)

 CNC machines emerged after NC machines to overcome their limitations. Instead of using a
tape reader, CNC machines utilise a computer-generated file containing G-Codes and M-Codes
to store the program. This allows for instant changes to parameters like speed, feed, and depth
of cut, making CNC machines highly accurate and efficient.

Distributed Numerical Control (DNC Machine)

 Similar to CNC machines, DNC machines employ a remote computer to control multiple
machines performing various operations simultaneously. The central or remote computer
communicates with local CNC computers to execute the operations.
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COMPONENTS OF A NC SYSTEM
 The fundamental components of an NC (Numerical Control) machine are as follows:

 Set of instructions

 Machine Control Unit(MCU)

 Signal Output Channel

 Tape Reader

 Data Buffer

 Feedback Channel and

 Machine Tools.
 z NC MACHINE WORKING
 The steps to employ the NC machine in the manufacturing process are as follows:

Planning Process

 This stage involves interpreting engineering drawings of the workpiece and determining the
manufacturing processes required. A route sheet is prepared, outlining the series of operations
that the workpiece must undergo.

Programming Process

 In this step, the programmer writes the program to sequence the operations or machining
processes required for the workpiece. The programmed instructions are converted into output
signals that control actions like spindle speed, tool selection, tool movement, and cutting fluid
flow.

Tape Preparation

 The program is punched into a tape in this phase. For manual part programming, a typewriter-
type device with tape-punching capability is used.
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Tape Inspection

 After preparing the tape, it undergoes inspection to check for accuracy.

Inspection methods can include using a computer program to simulate
tool actions on paper or performing an "acid test," where the tool
executes actions on a sample workpiece made of plastic or foam.

Production

 This final step involves using the NC tape for production. It includes
managing the raw workpiece, specifying and preparing the required
tooling and special fixtures, and setting up the NC machine for the
operation.
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APPLICATIONS OF NC MACHINES
NC machines find extensive utilisation in the metal-cutting industry and excel in
producing the following types of products:

 Parts requiring close tolerances and excellent repeatability.

 Parts that would necessitate expensive jigs and fixtures if produced on

conventional machines.

 Parts undergoing frequent engineering changes, especially during

prototype development.

 Situations where human errors could lead to significant costs.

 Urgently required parts.

 Small batch lots or short production runs.

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CNC MACHINES
 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is the automation of the
machine tools in which the functions and motions of it are
controlled by means of a prepared program containing coded
alphanumeric data.

 CNC can control the motions of the work piece or tool, the input
parameters such as feed, depth of cut, speed, and the functions
such as turning spindle on/off, turning coolant on/off.
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COMPONENTS OF A CNC SYSTEM
The main parts of the CNC machine are:

 Input Devices: These devices are responsible for inputting the part program into the CNC machine. ThE
commonly used input devices include: punch tape reader, magnetic tape reader etc.

 Machine Control Unit (MCU): Serving as the heart of the CNC machine, the MCU performs all controlling actions.
Its various functions include reading the coded instructions, decoding them, implementing interpolation (linear,
circular, and helical) to generate axis motion commands, feeding these commands to the amplifier circuits for
driving the axis mechanisms, receiving feedback signals of position and speed for each drive axis, and
implementing auxiliary control functions such as coolant or spindle on/off and tool changes.

 Machine Tool: The CNC machine tool comprises a slide table and a spindle to control the position and speed.
The machine table is controlled in the X and Y-axis direction, while the spindle is controlled in the Z-axis direction.

 Driving System: The driving system consists of amplifier circuits, drive motors, and ball lead screws. The MCU
feeds the signals of each axis (i.e., position and speed) to the amplifier circuits, which then augment (increase)
the control signals to actuate the drive motors. The actuated drive motors, in turn, rotate the ball lead screw to
position the machine table.
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 Feedback System: This system incorporates transducers that act as

sensors and measuring devices. It continuously monitors the position
and speed of the cutting tool at any given moment. The MCU receives
signals from these transducers and utilises the difference between
reference and feedback signals to generate control signals for
correcting position and speed errors.

 Display Unit: A monitor is used as a display unit to showcase CNC

machine programs, commands, and other pertinent data.
 z CONTROLS IN CNC
 OPEN LOOP CONTROL

The control system in which the output of the system does not have any effect on its input is
known as the open-loop control system. This means that the system does not have any feedback
structure.

CLOSED LOOP CONTROL

A closed-loop control system is a type of control system in which the controlling action shows
dependency on the generated output of the system.It consists of a feedback system
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MACHINE CODES USED IN CNC

PROGRAMMING
In CNC programming, various types of codes are used to communicate instructions to the CNC machine.

 G-Codes (Geometric Codes):

G-codes are commands that control the movement and machining operations performed by the CNC machine.

They specify actions such as linear and circular interpolation, tool movements, spindle speed, coolant on/off, and more.

G-codes define the type and direction of motion, as well as the machining mode (absolute or incremental).

Examples include G00 for rapid positioning, G01 for linear interpolation, G02/G03 for circular interpolation, and others.

 M-Codes (Miscellaneous Codes):

M-codes are used to control miscellaneous functions of the CNC machine, such as spindle control, coolant control, tool
changes, program stops, and more.

They initiate actions like starting or stopping the spindle, engaging or disengaging coolant, tool changes, program stops, and
machine resets.

Examples include M03 for spindle start (clockwise rotation), M05 for spindle stop, M06 for tool changes, M08 for coolant on,
M09 for coolant off, and others.
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 S-Codes (Spindle Speed Codes):

S-codes are used to specify the spindle speed at which machining operations should be performed.They
define the rotational speed of the spindle in revolutions per minute (RPM) or surface speed units.S-codes
are essential for controlling the cutting speed and ensuring proper machining conditions for different
materials and tooling.

 F-Code (Feed Rate Code):

F-code is used to specify the feed rate at which the cutting tool moves relative to the workpiece during
machining.It determines the rate of material removal and influences factors such as cutting forces, surface
finish, and tool life.F-codes are expressed in units per minute (inches per minute or millimeters per minute)
and control the speed at which the tool advances along the programmed tool path.

 T-Codes (Tool Codes):

T-codes are used to specify the tools to be used during machining operations. They designate the tool
number or identifier associated with a particular tool in the CNC machine's tool magazine.T-codes are often
used in conjunction with M06 (tool change) to select and load the appropriate tool before machining begins.
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CO-ORDINATE SYSTEMS IN CNC

 ABSOLUTE CO-ORDINATE SYSTEM

In this co-ordinate system we specify the point’s exact distance from the origin point . ie, we
calculate the dimension from the origin (0,0)

G90 code is the preparatory code used for absolute coordinate system
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 INCREMENTAL CO-ORDINATE SYSTEM

Also called as relative cartesian co-ordinate system.

In this system , the co-ordinates specify a point’s exact distance from the last point that
was entered.

G91 code is the preparatory code used for Incremental co-ordinate system.
 CLASSIFICATION
z OF CNC MACHINES
1、CNC Milling

CNC mills, also known as machining centers, are one of the most common types of CNC machines. They use rotary
cutters to remove material from a workpiece, resulting in the desired shape or form. CNC mills are highly versatile
and can perform a wide range of operations, including drilling, tapping, milling, and contouring.

 2、CNC lathe

 It is used in the process of CNC machining and manufacturing of cylindrical objects and CNC turning parts.
When the material block rotates quickly on the spindle, the tool will form the CNC machining part.CNC lathes are
ideal for producing symmetrical parts such as shafts, rods, and rings. They offer excellent precision and can
produce intricate designs with ease.
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 3、CNC drilling machine

 They used to drill holes on CNC machined parts. This tool can quickly and accurately locate the
drilling position. The precision drilling machine can also carry out reaming, back drilling and tapping.

 4、CNC grinder

 The machine uses a rotating wheel to grind or grind the material into the desired shape, which is
easier to program than CNC milling machines and lathes. Generally, the accuracy of the grinding
machine varies based on the manufacturing project.
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According to the number of axes, CNC machine tools can generally be divided into five categories:
2-axis CNC machine tools, 2.5-axis CNC machine tools, 3-axis CNC machine tools, 4-axis CNC
machine tools and 5-axis CNC machine tools.

 2 Axis CNC Machining Machine

 A machine is only allowed to enter two axes, such as a lathe, and the tool moves in two
directions, such as X and Z.

 3-Axis CNC Machining Machine

 Three-axis (X, Y, and Z) move simultaneously in three dimensions. It is the most widely used
and most versatile machine tool. It can achieve high precision and high precision, and can be
used for automatic/interactive operations and milling grooves. , Drilling and cutting sharp edges.

 4-Axis CNC Machining Machine

 A three-axis machine tool that rotates again on the A-axis or B-axis. Common examples are
vertical or horizontal machine tools. In the case of 4-axis CNC machining, milling is performed
on the additional axis, and the operations on X, Y, and Z are the same as the three-axis system,
and the rotation on the A or B axis is performed around the X axis.
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 5-Axis CNC Machining Machine

 A three-axis CNC machining machine tool that additionally rotates

in two directions (Y and Z) on the A-axis and B-axis, respectively, is
rotated by the bed and the spindle movement (pivot point). The 5-
axis machine tool is an advanced CNC machining machine. Its
multi-dimensional rotation and tool movement allow the creation
of precise and complex CNC machining parts.

 Multi-Axis CNC Machines

 These machines go beyond five axes and can have up to 9 or more

axes. Multi-axis CNC machines are used in advanced aerospace,
medical, and automotive applications.
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BASICS OF CNC MACHINE TOOLS
To understand the working principles of CNC machines,. Here are some key concepts:

 Tooling: CNC machines utilize a wide range of cutting tools, each designed for specific tasks. End
mills, drills, lathes, and insert cutters are just a few examples of these tools. Proper selection and
maintenance of tools are crucial for achieving optimal results.

 CAD/CAM Software: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

software play a significant role in CNC machining. CAD software is used to create the 3D model of
the part, while CAM software generates the toolpath and converts the model into G-code
instructions that the machine understands.

 Workholding Devices: Workholding devices secure the workpiece in place during the machining
process. Vises, clamps, chucks, and fixtures ensure stability and precision during cutting
operations.

 Cutting Parameters: The selection of appropriate cutting parameters, such as feed rates, spindle
speeds, and depth of cut, is critical for achieving the desired surface finish and dimensional
accuracy.
 Advantages
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of CNC Machining
 CNC machining offers numerous advantages, making it a preferred manufacturing method for a wide
range of industries. Some of the key benefits include:

 Precision and Accuracy: CNC machines can achieve exceptionally high levels of precision, ensuring
consistent and accurate results.

 Automation: The automation of CNC machines reduces the need for manual intervention, leading to
increased efficiency and reduced labor costs.

 Complexity and Versatility: CNC machines can create intricate and complex geometries that would be
challenging or impossible to achieve using conventional methods.

 Repeatability: Once a CNC program is created and tested, the same process can be easily repeated
with consistent outcomes.

 Material Variety: CNC machines can work with a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics,
composites, and more.

 Reduction of Waste: CNC machining minimizes material wastage due to precise cutting and optimized
toolpaths.
 MCQ
Q1.In CNC machining, what does the term "CAD/CAM" stand for?
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 A) Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing

 B) Computer-Adaptive Design/Computer-Adaptive Manufacturing

 C) Computer-Assisted Design/Computer-Assisted Manufacturing

 D) Computer-Aligned Design/Computer-Aligned Manufacturing

Q2. What is the purpose of G-code in CNC machining?

 A) To specify tool geometry

 B) To define the sequence of operations

 C) To control the temperature of the cutting tool

 D) None of the above

Q3. What is the primary advantage of using CNC milling machines over manual milling machines?

A) Higher production speed

B) Lower cost

C) Greater flexibility

D) Better surface finish

Q4.Which type of control system is commonly used in modern CNC machines?

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A) Open-loop control

B) Closed-loop control

C) Mixed-loop control

D) None of the above

Q5.What is the primary advantage of using CNC machines over conventional machining methods?

A) Higher precision and accuracy

B) Lower initial cost

C) Simpler operation

D) Limited versatility

Q6. What is the function of the coolant system in CNC machining?

A) To cool the workpiece and cutting tool

B) To lubricate the machine components

C) To remove chips and debris from the work area

D) All of the above

Q7. Which of the following is NOT a factor that affects CNC machining accuracy?

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A) Tool geometry

B) Machine rigidity

C) Material hardness

D) Ambient temperature

Q8. Which type of machining operation is commonly performed on a CNC lathe machine?

a) Milling

b) Drilling

c) Turning

d) Grinding

Q9. What type of signal is commonly used to control the motion of axes in CNC machines?

a) Digital

b) Analog

c) Pneumatic

d) Hydraulic
Q10.Which component of a CNC machine tool holds the workpiece securely in place during machining?

a) Chuck z

b) Tool Holder

c) Offset

d) Turret

Q11. Which type of motion is controlled by the X-axis in CNC machines?

a)Vertical motion

b) Horizontal motion

c) Rotational motion

d) Circular motion

Q12. Which of the following is not a commonly used CNC machining process?

a) Drilling

b) Broaching

c) Tapping

d) Casting
Q13.Which of the following statements best describes the difference between NC and CNC machines?

a) NC machinesz
are manual while CNC machines are automated.

b) CNC machines are older technology compared to NC machines.

c) NC machines require constant human intervention, while CNC machinesoperate autonomously.

d) There is no difference between NC and CNC machines.

Q14.Which component of an NC machine is responsible for converting electrical signals into mechanical motion?

a)Actuator

b) Controller

c) Feedback system

d) Workpiece

Q15. Which component of an NC machine is responsible for executing the programmed instructions?

a)Controller

b) Actuator

c) Feedback system

d) Workpiece
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KEY

 1. a 8. c 15. a

 2. a 9. a

 3. a 10. a

 4. b 11. b

 5. a 12. d

 6. a 13. a

 7. d 14. a
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Thank You