CNC Machine Full Form
CNC Machine Full Form
What is the full form of CNC?
The full form of CNC is Computerized Numerical Control. CNC is a control system that controls equipment that runs on electronic digital computers. It controls, optimizes, and records a machine moving objects. It can be a router, a grinder, a laser cutter, a welder, a milling machine, etc. Compared to the old manual machines, CNC machines are fully automatic, but still require a user to operate them. CNC means that a computer converts the design into computer aided design (CAD) generated by the software. The numbers can be the coordinates of a diagram and monitor the movement of the cutter. In this way, the material is cut, designed, and shaped by a computer.
- CNC Machine Full Form
- Definition of CNC Machine
- Applications of CNC Machine
- How do CNC Machines Work?
CNC is used to cut various hard materials, including wood, composites, aluminum, plastics, steel, and foam.
Figure 1 Figure 2
image : cnc machine (self created)
Definition of CNC Machine
Computer numerical control (CNC) is the process of controlling a machine tool's functions and movements using a program containing coded alphanumeric data.
The CNC is capable of controlling the movements of the tool or workpiece as well as the input parameters of feeds, depths of cuts, speeds, as well as spindle on/offs and coolant on/offs.
Applications of CNC Machine
The applications of CNC include both machine tools and non-machine tools. In the machine tool field, CNC is widely used for lathes, drilling machines, milling machines, grinding machines, lasers, sheet metal working machines, pipe bending machines, etc. Highly automated machine tools such as turning centres and machining centres have been developed, which automatically change cutting tools under CNC control. In the category of non-machine tools, CNC applications include welding machines (arc and resistance welding machines), coordinate measuring machines, electronic assemblies, tape laying machines, composite winding machines, etc.
Why Is CNC Machining Necessary?
The production of complex curved geometries in 2D or 3D was extremely expensive by mechanical means (which usually required complex fixtures to control the cutter movements)
Machining components with high repeatability and precision
Unmanned machining operations
To improve production planning and increase productivity
To compete in the global marketplace, CNC machines must maintain tight tolerances.
How do CNC Machines Work?
First, the part program is inserted into the machine control Unit (MCU) of the CNC.
All data processing takes place in the MCU, and according to the created program, it prepares and sends all motion commands to the drive system.
The drive system operates as the motion commands are sent from the MCU. The drive system controls the movement and speed of the machine tool.
The feedback system senses the position and speed measurement of the machine tool and sends a feedback signal to the MCU.
In the MCU, the feedback signals are compared with the reference signals, and if there are errors, they are corrected and new signals are sent to the machine tool so that the correct operation can be performed.
A display unit is used to see all commands, programs, and other important data. It acts as the eye of the machine.
Figure 3
image: CNC machine (self created)
Types of CNC Machine
CNC laser cutting machine
CNC Lathe Machine
CNC Milling Machine
CNC router Machine
CNC Plasma Cutting Machine
5- axis machine
3-D Printer
Pick and Place Machine
Advantages of CNC Machine
The benefits of CNC are
high manufacturing accuracy,
short production time,
greater manufacturing flexibility,
simpler fixturing,
contour machining (2 to 5-axis machining),
less human error
Disadvantages of CNC Machine
The cost of the CNC machine is very high compared to a manually operated machine.
The parts of CNC machines are expensive.
The maintenance cost of CNC machines is quite high.
The need for expensive tools is not eliminated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
CNC - Computer Numerical Control - Based on digitized data, a computer and a program (CAM) are used to control, automate and monitor the movements of a machine. The machine may be a milling machine, lathe, router, welder, grinder, laser or water jet cutter, sheet metal punching machine, robot, or many other types of machines.
A CNC router can cut or engrave materials quickly and precisely. Like a laser cutter, it can cut materials such as plastic, foam, wood, composites, and acrylic, and is ideal for cutting steel, aluminum, and other metal plates to specifications.
Operating Costs. The cost of consumables and materials for CNC machines is usually lower than for 3D printers.
CNC is the best option for cutting and carving thick materials such as MDF(medium density fibreboard), aluminum, wood, acrylic, etc. Laser cutting, on the other hand, provides far better results when cutting thin workpieces. Therefore, laser cutters are ideal for applications that require shallow cuts with high speed and accuracy.
CNC coolant is delivered in several different forms – both in properties and pressure. The most common forms are air, mist, flood coolant, high pressure, and Minimum Quantity Lubricant.