Author Archive for Jeff Fitzpatrick

The Ins and Outs of CNC Machining and What You Need to Know

CNC machining specialists can produce a variety of metal goods and parts by using a complex and detailed process. Understanding the ins and outs of this process will make it easier for you to decide if it is right for your needs or if you need a different option for your facility, so keep reading to learn more.

CNC Machining Definition

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses computer controls and programs to create various tools and parts carefully. The earliest CNC machines in the 1940s and 1950s used punch tape, but modern machines utilize more complex and detailed programs to produce extensive products that meet various safety and stability guidelines.

The CNC Machining Process

CNC machining specialists utilize multiple steps to produce parts. They start by using CAD (computer-aided drafting) programs to create a design. When finished, this design is converted into a CNC program that is fed into the machine. These designs use both 2D vectors or a 3D solid part design to create the completed part. The machine then crafts the part with G-code and M-code (two common programming languages) dictating the tooling actions and how the part is cut and created for your needs.

Common Types of CNC Machining

CNC machining comes in multiple types. The first is CNC drilling. This process uses multi-point drill bits to create holes throughout the piece. The bit feeds perpendicularly to the surface, creating vertical holes throughout the machine. Other elements include counterboring, countersinking, tapping, and reaming. These steps help to create holes of various sizes and shapes.

CNC milling uses rotating multi-point tools to remove material from the piece carefully. The part is fed to the mill in the same direction as the cut, creating shallow and flat surfaces or deep cavities. CNC turning uses a single-point tool to remove material from a part. Think of this process as if you’re working a lathe, as it operates on the same basic principle.

By understanding these steps, you can identify CNC machining specialists who you can trust to handle your needs. Talk with these experts about which machining option works the best for your business. They’ll examine your part needs, talk with you about the various processes available, and create a plan that makes the most sense for your needs. In this way, you can avoid unnecessary costs and expenses. Learn more by contacting Dexter Design today.

The CNC Machine Tools Market’s Eye-Opening Growth

There is a market on the rise, and it may not be exactly what you’re expecting. CNC machines are machine tools that are meant to cut or move material that has been programmed on the controller. They can work with plasma cutting, as well as milling, laser cutting, lathes, and routes. The machines can also pick up and move items on an assembly line. This should make it a bit easier to understand why the CNC machining market is growing at a rapid rate. With that being said, let’s explore the growth of this market, and the reasons behind it, a bit further.

How Quickly is the CNC Machine Tools Market Growing?

As of 2018, the global CNC machine tools market size was at $82.5 billion. While this is already quite impressive, the market only continued to grow over time. By 2020, the global CNC machine tools market was valued at $19.92 billion and is expected to reach $32.8 billion by the end of 2021, with a growth rate of 6.4%. It’s clear that the demand for CNC machining is quite serious, and this rate of growth is expected to continue through 2027.

Who Is Dominating the CNC Machine Tools Market?

Currently, the biggest players in the market include Yamazaki Mazak, DMG Mori Seiki, Okuma Corporation, and several other competitors. Part of the reason why this market is growing may be because the competitors continue to drive each other, answering demand while at the same time driving pricing competitions.

Why Is The Demand So High?

The reasons why the demand for CNC machine tools is so high are manifold. Recently, technological advancements have been made in the market, which means that people want these tools more than they did in the past due to their increased effectiveness. Additionally, the annual production is rising, which means that they are easier to obtain. Investors are pouring more money into manufacturing as well, and the government has also taken initiatives to push the market further. Because there has been such a strong demand for these machine tools, these initiatives will likely only continue to grow.

As technological advances with CNC machine tools progress, the market for these tools will be pushed further. There is an exciting opportunity for growth within the market and it will ideally continue to progress as time goes on.

How Precision Manufacturing With CNC Mills Can Give You a Competitive Edge

If you’re in the market for true precision manufacturing, CNC Mills can give you an edge over your competitors. With ISO9001:2015/AS9100D CERTIFIED manufacturing, CNC mills provide consistent, high-quality pieces suited to a variety of needs.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, we have to answer a basic question.

What is a CNC Machine?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are used to create a surface from a piece of stock. This piece is cut to exact specifications so that component pieces with different tolerances can be produced. More precise than manual machining, CNC Mills can cut in 3 dimensions which makes them an excellent tool for precision manufacturing.

Why Are CNC Mills Used?

The accuracy of CNC Machining Advancements ensures a consistently high-quality product. This increased production speed and efficiency is a huge plus when it comes to existing in a competitive market. Since CNC Mills have the ability to cut in 3 dimensions, they are an impressive competitive choice and have the ability to replicate a needed part as many times as necessary with little to no variation.

The tight tolerances and high degree of complexity CNC machines are capable of make them a favorite of precision machinists in all levels of the industry. Tailored for high productivity and optimum performance, these machines can work tirelessly to transform raw materials into the needed sizes and shapes with no errors in production.

CNC mills operate by using rotating multipoint cutting tools and computer controls to shave away bits of metal, wood, glass, plastic, and other materials to create a custom-designed piece or part. This versatile and high-precision way of machining has become a favorite of the industry and adopting CNC mills or CNC milled parts into your workflow can really give your projects a competitive edge in the marketplace.

When Should CNC Manufacturing Be Used?

Precision CNC manufacturing is suitable for a wide variety of materials including metal, glass, plastic, and wood. This kind of versatility makes it a great choice for any business looking for precision-made, error-free parts. Pieces and parts can be made and remade to the same standard for as long as necessary. The result of this is a more reliable final product and a consistency of product across multiple lines or locations.

The bottom line is that precision manufacturing with CNC mills turns out a high-quality and consistent part, which in turn makes for a more consistent and reliable final product.