CNC (Computer Numerical Control) turning is a remarkably advanced technical process involved in the manufacturing sector. This blog delves deep into its heart, examining its principles, operation, and intricate details involved in a CNC turning centre.
Introduction
A CNC turning centre is a form of automated control where pre-programmed computer software instructs factory machinery and tools to perform a wide range of machining jobs. This process eliminates the need for manual control. Instead, with detailed digital instructions, CNC can control a three-dimensional cutting task with a single set of prompts.
The Anatomy of a CNC Turning Centre
Any CNC turning centre would generally include these primary components:
1. Input Devices: These are devices through which the instructions are fed into the CNC machine. They can be punch tape reader, magnetic tape reader or computer via RS-232-C communication.
2. Machine Control Unit (MCU): The heart of the CNC machine, MCU uses the commands to control the motion of the machine and implement the machining processes.
3. Machine Tool: This performs the actual machining process through various motions including start, stop, speed change and direction, to name a few.
4. Driving System: It drives the machine parts for motion.
5. Feedback System: This measures the amount of motion and feeds it back to the MCU.
Operating Principles
A CNC machine＊s turning process rotates the workpiece on an axis to perform multi-point, intrusive cutting. The tool size doesn＊t affect the tool shape, which can move in two directions perpendicular to each other.
The operation might look complex, but it＊s based on simple principles. Once you feed the designed program into the machine, it starts carving the workpiece and continues until it matches the specifications mentioned in the programmed software.
Types of CNC Turning
There are two prevalent types of CNC turning, namely Straight Turningand Taper Turning. Straight turning reduces the workpiece diameter, whereas Taper turning crafts a conical shape over the workpiece＊s length.
Straight Turning
A cutting tool moves linearly while the workpiece rotates. Generally, CNC machines have two cutting edges that perform straight turning. The feed and speed differ based on the piece's material, the depth of the cut, conditions of the machine, and its power.
Taper Turning
In this method, the workpiece rotates as the cutting tool moves at an angle to the rotation axis. The turning point creates a conically shaped workpiece while the tip of the work shifts off the parallel line to the work axis, causing the diameter to reduce gradually.
The Future of CNC Turning
CNC turning centres are becoming increasingly complex and capable. They accomplish high-precision tasks at incredible speeds, facilitating mass production with minimum waste. Also, they reduce the need for a large workforce and the error margin.
Furthermore, as industries continue to grow and develop more avant-garde products, the demand for CNC turning centres is not showing any signs of decline. Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development, hoping to create machines faster, more precise, and capable of processing an ever-increasing selection of materials. The entire landscape of production industry witnesses a shift towards automated, cost-friendly and precision-based manufacturing process and the CNC turning centres are its gleaming torchbearers.
Without summing it up clearly, let's embrace the enticing fact that CNC turning centres have changed the way we think about manufacturing, with a promising future like no other.
cnc turning centre wikipedia
