How To Achieve High-precision Machining of Complex Parts Through CNC

CNC, short for computer numerical control, is an advanced manufacturing technology that controls machine tools for automated processing through computer programs. CNC machining has characteristics such as high precision, high efficiency, and high stability, making it widely used in the manufacturing industry, especially for enterprises that require complex part processing, where the application of CNC technology is more important.

I. Overview of CNC Machine Tools

Computer numerical control (CNC) is an advanced manufacturing technology that uses digital signals to control machine tools for automatic processing. The advantages of CNC machining include high precision, fast speed, good repeatability, high reliability, and high degree of automation. Due to the simple operation and ease of learning of CNC machine tools, they are widely used in the mechanical processing field.

II. Advantages of CNC Machining

1.High Precision

The precision of CNC machining can reach the sub-millimeter level, or even higher, which is much higher than the precision of traditional machine tools. This high precision makes CNC machining suitable for manufacturing high-precision parts and components, such as those used in aerospace, automotive, electronic, and other fields.

2.High Efficiency

CNC machining has a high degree of automation, which can realize automated production and improve processing and production efficiency. Compared with traditional machine tools, CNC machining has fast speed and high production efficiency, greatly improving production efficiency.

3.High Stability

The control system of a CNC machine tool is controlled by a computer, which can monitor the machining process in real-time, automatically adjust process parameters, and ensure the stability and quality of the machining process.

4.Flexibility

CNC machining can achieve different machining processes and workpiece machining by adjusting the program. At the same time, the machining process can be adjusted according to different needs, which has high flexibility.

III. Basic Process of CNC Machining

The basic process of CNC machining includes several steps such as workpiece design, program writing, process determination, machine tool debugging, and process control.

1.Workpiece Design

Before CNC machining, it is necessary to design the workpiece and determine the geometric shape and size parameters of the workpiece. This step requires the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software to design and draw the three-dimensional model of the workpiece.

2.Program Writing

The machining program is the core of CNC machining and is used to realize the automatic machining process of the machine tool through computer programming. The machining program includes the machining path of the machine tool, machining speed, and the time of tool use. When writing the machining program, factors such as the geometric shape of the workpiece, material properties, type of tool, and machining process need to be considered. In general, the process of writing a machining program requires the following steps:

(1) Determine the machining process and tool selection, including cutting speed, feed speed, cutting depth, tool diameter, etc.

(2) Determine the machining path, including the machine tool's moving path, machining order, and machining method, etc.

(3) Generate machining program code using CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software.

(4) Upload the generated program code to the machine tool control system.

3.Determination of machining process

The determination of machining process is a very important part of CNC machining. When determining the machining process, factors such as workpiece material, shape, and size need to be considered. Generally, the machining process includes cutting process, the use of cooling liquid, and the configuration of the machine tool, etc. Different cutting processes need to be adopted according to the different materials and shapes of the workpiece, and selecting suitable cooling liquid can effectively reduce the machining temperature, prevent workpiece deformation and reduce the decrease in machining quality.

4.Machine Debugging

Before CNC machining, the machine tool needs to be debugged. The purpose of debugging is to check whether the various performances of the machine tool are normal, including motion accuracy, cutting force, tool changing, etc. During the debugging process, the machining program needs to be gradually adjusted and improved to ensure the quality and efficiency of machining.

5.Machining Process Control

Machining process control is the key to CNC machining, whose purpose is to ensure the quality and efficiency of machining by controlling the machine tool's motion and process parameters. Machining process control needs to be carried out based on the machining program and process, and real-time monitoring of the machining process is required to adjust and improve it according to the actual situation during the machining process.

IV. How to Achieve High-Precision Machining of Complex Parts with CNC

When machining complex parts with high precision, some special measures need to be taken to ensure the quality and efficiency of machining. The following will introduce how to achieve high-precision machining of complex parts through CNC.

1.Choose suitable cutting tools

When performing high-precision machining of complex parts, it is necessary to choose suitable cutting tools based on the machining material and shape. Generally, cutting tools with a smaller radius and higher hardness should be selected to ensure machining accuracy and surface quality. At the same time, it is necessary to strictly control the wear and life of cutting tools during the machining process, and replace them in time to avoid the decrease in machining quality and efficiency caused by tool wear.

2.Optimize machining paths

In high-precision machining of complex parts, the selection and optimization of machining paths are crucial. Generally, a reasonable machining path should be adopted to ensure machining quality and efficiency. When selecting the machining path, factors such as the geometric shape and size of the workpiece, as well as the direction and speed of the cutting tool feed should be considered. When optimizing the machining path, it is necessary to minimize the machine tool's movement distance, shorten the machining time, and improve machining efficiency as much as possible.

3.Strictly control machining parameters

When performing high-precision machining of complex parts, it is necessary to strictly control the machining parameters. The selection of machining parameters should be based on the machining material and shape. When controlling the machining parameters, factors such as machining speed, feed speed, cutting depth, and cutting force should be considered. At the same time, adjustments and improvements should be made based on the actual situation to ensure machining quality and efficiency.

4.Timely inspection and maintenance of machine tools

When performing high-precision machining of complex parts, the stability and accuracy of the machine tool have a significant impact on machining quality and efficiency. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly inspect and maintain the machine tool to ensure its normal operation and high-precision machining. When inspecting and maintaining the machine tool, attention should be paid to cleaning the machine tool surface and lubrication system, checking the machine tool's motion accuracy and tool changing system, and replacing damaged parts and accessories in a timely manner.

5.Strengthen quality control

Quality control is crucial when performing high-precision machining of complex parts. Strict quality control of the machining process is necessary to ensure machining quality and efficiency. In quality control, it is necessary to strengthen monitoring and management of the machining process, and timely adjust and improve machining parameters and processes to improve machining precision and surface quality.

6.Utilize computer-aided manufacturing technology

Utilizing computer-aided manufacturing technology can effectively improve the efficiency and quality of high-precision machining of complex parts. Computer-aided manufacturing technology can simulate and optimize the machining process, automatically generate machining programs, and improve machining precision and efficiency. In computer-aided manufacturing technology, CAD/CAM systems can also be used to simulate and optimize the machining process. Through CAD/CAM systems, three-dimensional modeling of parts and optimization of machining paths can be achieved, machining programs can be automatically generated, and machining time can be reduced while improving machining precision.

7.Strengthen personnel training

Professional technical personnel are required to operate and manage the high-precision machining of complex parts. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen personnel training and improve their professional skills and machining level. In personnel training, emphasis should be placed on imparting machining knowledge and skills, strengthening training on safety measures and operating standards during machining, and improving personnel's sense of responsibility and work initiative.

8.Pay attention to safety in production

When performing high-precision machining of complex parts, it is necessary to pay attention to safety in production and strictly follow operating procedures and safety regulations. Machine operators should be familiar with the structure and principles of the machine tool, master the safety operating procedures, follow operating regulations, and use the machine tool and tools correctly to avoid accidents during operation. At the same time, during the machining process, it is necessary to pay attention to the maintenance and upkeep of the machine tool, regularly check the various performance and safety devices of the machine tool, and ensure its normal operation and safe production.

9.Strengthen Quality Management

Precision machining of complex parts requires the strengthening of quality management, the establishment of a sound quality management system and quality control system, strict control of machining quality and process control, to ensure the accuracy and quality of machined parts meet the requirements. In quality management, it is necessary to monitor and control various parameters and quality indicators in the machining process, promptly discover and solve quality problems, and prevent quality accidents from occurring.

10.Strengthen Machine Maintenance

The machine tool is the key equipment for precision machining of complex parts and requires strengthening of machine maintenance and upkeep to ensure the normal operation and stability of the machine. In machine tool maintenance, attention should be paid to lubrication and maintenance of all components of the machine tool, timely replacement of vulnerable parts and accessories, to ensure the normal service life and operating performance of the machine tool. At the same time, it is also necessary to regularly check and calibrate various performance indicators of the machine tool, discover and solve problems, and ensure the stability and machining accuracy of the machine tool.

11.Utilize Advanced Technology

With the continuous development of science and technology, CNC machining technology is also constantly improving and perfecting. In precision machining of complex parts, advanced technology and new materials can be utilized, new machining methods and processes can be adopted to improve machining efficiency and accuracy. For example, advanced cutting tools and tool materials such as PCD and CBN can be used to improve cutting efficiency and accuracy; new technologies such as high-speed cutting and ultrasonic machining can be used to improve machining efficiency and accuracy.

12.Reasonable Design of Part Structure

Before precision machining of complex parts, reasonable part structure design and rational machining methods and processes need to be adopted to avoid deformation and errors during the machining process. In part design, material properties and machining requirements need to be considered, suitable machining processes and methods need to be selected, to ensure the accuracy and quality of machined parts meet the requirements.

13.Optimize the machining process

In high-precision machining of complex parts, the machining process needs to be optimized to improve machining efficiency and accuracy by optimizing machining parameters and strategies. Mathematical models and simulation software can be used to predict deformation and errors in the machining process, optimize machining paths and cutting parameters, reduce machining errors and surface roughness, and improve machining accuracy and quality.

14.Focus on training and improving personnel quality

High-precision machining of complex parts requires operators to possess certain skills and qualities. Therefore, emphasis should be placed on training and improving personnel quality. Personnel training should focus on enhancing operational skills and safety knowledge, improving personnel skills and operational level, enhancing safety awareness and quality consciousness, and ensuring the safety and quality of the machining process. At the same time, it is also necessary to cultivate innovation awareness and learning ability, actively learn new machining technologies and processes, improve personal technical level and quality, and inject new impetus for the development and innovation of the enterprise.

Conclusion

CNC machining technology is widely used in modern manufacturing, especially in high-precision machining of complex parts, where it plays an important role. To ensure machining accuracy and quality, multiple factors must be considered and controlled, including machining processes and control methods, machine tool maintenance and quality control, and personnel quality improvement. Only by comprehensively considering these factors in the machining process can high-precision machining of complex parts be achieved and meet the needs of the market and customers.

At the same time, we should also recognize that CNC machining technology is constantly developing and improving. With the advancement of technology and the development of manufacturing industry, more advanced and efficient machining technologies and processes will emerge. Therefore, in practice, we need to continuously learn and innovate, constantly explore and improve, in order to maintain our technological leadership and achieve sustainable development of our enterprises.

In summary, CNC machining technology is an indispensable part of modern manufacturing industry, especially for the high-precision machining of complex parts. Through control in various aspects, such as reasonable machining processes and control methods, maintenance and quality control of machine tools, and improvement of personnel quality, high-precision machining of complex parts can be achieved, injecting new power into the development and innovation of enterprises. ZONZE, as a manufacturing enterprise, attaches great importance to this. If you have any machining needs, please do not hesitate to contact ZONZE immediately. They will provide you with free advice based on over 20 years of experience.