When discussing CNC turning operation, there are several different types of turning involved in the manufacture of CNC turned parts. The most basic process is simple CNC turning, the part being rotated on a single point cutting tool. This tool is moved in a motion that is parallel to the axis that is rotating. CNC turning operation can be carried out both externally as well as internally. When the turning in question is carried out internally, it is then called boring. Below is a look at some of the more complex CNC turning operations that are used in the manufacture of CNC turned parts found when you click here.
CNC Turning Operation : Tapered Turning
Tapered turning is used when a conical surface is necessary. A conical surface is one where there is a gradual increase or reduction in diameter of the work piece in question. Tapered CNC turning is common, and is used for many different purposes within CNC.
Spherical Turning
Spherical CNC turning operations are used when the workpiece being manufactured is a ball shape. A simple example of this would be a ball bearing.
Hard CNC Turning
Hard CNC turning is used on work pieces that have previously been heat-treated. A hardness superior of 45 constitutes hard CNC turning. Hard CNC turning is often used instead of grinding. Hard CNC turning is used for gears, hydraulic components, injection pump components, and many more.
Facing
Facing within CNC means the turning where the cutting tool is set at right angles to the axis of rotation of the workpiece that is being rotated. Facing is often involved in the finishing of a work piece, and in this context is known as “ending up”
CNC Turning Operation : Parting
Parting with the CNC industry is used when it is necessary to create deep grooves. Grooving is a separate process, but similar to parting, grooving ensuring a specific depth of groove is cut. Grooving, like turning, can be used internally and externally. When used on the face of a pat, it is then known as trepanning or face grooving.
CNC Turning Operations : Non-Specific Operations
Asides the above operations that have been covered above, there are also many non-specific operations used with CNC turning. These include boring, drilling, knurling, treading, reaming, and polygonal turning.
Boring is the process of enlarging an already drilled or casted hole. Boring is carried out by means of a single-point cutting tool. An example of boring would be that of an engine cylinder or gun barrel.
Drilling within the manufacture of CNC turned parts is the process whereby material is removed from the inside of a workpiece. Drilling is generally carried out using standard drill bits.
Knurling with the CNC industry is the process by which a serrated pattern is cut. Knurling is used to create hand grips, and a special purpose knurling tool is used for the process.
Reaming is similar to drilling, and involves the removal of small amounts of metal from holes that have already been drilled. Reaming is however more precise, and is used when the size of the holes needed is extremely accurate.
Threading is the process used in CNC to make threaded screws. Screws of both standard and non-standard threads can be turned on a lathe with a CNC cutting tool. Lastly, polygonal turning refers to the CNC turning process where the piece being worked on is non-circular, forming a polygonal shape.
All of the above are subsections of CNC turning operations. Wherever you look, whether under the bonnet of your car or in any household appliance, you will find parts that have been produced by one of the above methods. CNC turning is far quicker than turning by hand, and therefore can mass-produce products that can be sold for lower prices.
When learning CNC as a hobby, it is important to not be put off by the vast number of different CNC turning operations. Starting with basic work pieces and basic operations is recommended, moving on to more complex operations and turning variations.
CNC turned parts are needed for all our industries. If you are in need of good quality CNC turned parts for your industry, Cam Machine can provide you with everything you need. Forget outsourcing your CNC needs to abroad and use a local CNC company that you can rely on. Support local businesses in Bristol CNC today when you choose our wide selection of CNC turning processes and parts.
No comments yet.