CNC MACHINE
What CNC means?
CNC means Computer Numerical Control. This means a computer
converts the design produced by Computer Aided Design software (CAD), into
numbers. The numbers can be considered to be the coordinates of a graph and
they control the movement of the cutter. In this way the computer controls the
cutting and shaping of the material.
How CNC Machine Works?
The CNC machine comprises of the computer in which the
program is fed for cutting of the metal of the job as per the requirements. All
the cutting processes that are to be carried out and all the final dimensions
are fed into the computer via the program. The computer thus knows what exactly
is to be done and carries out all the cutting processes. CNC machine works like
the Robot, which has to be fed with the program and it follows all your
instructions.
Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
is widely used for the automation of machines used in metal removal, shaping,
and fabrication. There are several types of CNC machines
that can be found in fabrication facilities today. Some of these include:
How Many Types CNC Machine?
5 Types of CNC Machines Commonly Used
CNC Milling Machines –
A mill uses rotary cutters to shave, cut or slice sections off of a work piece.
CNC technology enables far greater precision in milling than when the operation
is performed manually.The CNC milling machine can be programmed to vary in
depth, angle and direction of cut. A 3-axis machine operates along both the X
and Y horizontal axes, as well as the Z vertical axis. A 4-axis machine
includes a rotary dimension to its linear capability, which allows it to cut
along an arc.
CNC Lathes – Lathes
used in turning centers operate by rotating the material rapidly on a spindle.
While the material is turning, a cutting tool is used to shape the piece into
its desired form. CNC lathes are ideal for manufacturing symmetrical objects
that have conical, spherical or cylindrical shapes.
CNC Drilling Machines –
Sophisticated drilling machines can be programmed using CNC technology to
ensure precise positioning of holes in materials. With thick material, a
process called peck, or interrupted cut drilling is used to drill the hole in a
step wise procedure turret drilling machines have several drill bits and
cutting tools mounted on a turret. Automation enables the required tool to be
indexed quickly and accurately into position for drilling.
CNC Grinders –
Grinding machines use a rotary wheel, which abrades the material by grinding or
grating it into the desired shape. CNC grinders are easier to program than
lathes or milling machines because they do not require the same level of
precision.
CNC Plasma Cutters– Plasma
cutters use a plasma torch to cut sheet metal. They are are ideally suited for
cutting two-dimensional shapes.
CNC Machine Price?
CNC machines are overly expensive, both in terms of investment and
maintenance.
The prices may differ from territories to territories and also the type
you wish to purchase.
However, I have made an attempt to combine the figures to the best of
my machine knowledge.
1. The most basic of three-axis models sell for anywhere from $5,000
to $10,000.
2. Mid-range CNC
machines used for panel processing and signage are likely to cost
anywhere from $25,000 to $50,000.
3. High-end machines are often around $50,000 to $150,000
There are inevitable additional costs as well. For example:
- The computer-aided design (CAD) software package will cost you anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000.
- Training usually costs anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per day. The installation charges will run from $500 to $1,000 per day.
- Shipping starts at several hundred dollars and can cost up to $3,000.
0 Comments