News

How Do CNC Machines Work?

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

 

CNC technology has become quite common in the machining industry over the past decades. A CNC machine is a device that is able to control machining tools using programmed instructions. CNC is one of two technologies that are used to create parts based on a computer program. The other technology is 3D printing.

CNC machines have been in service since the middle of the 20th century, but their design has improved considerably. The earliest CNC machines were programmed using punched tape, much like the earliest computers. Modern CNC machines are controlled by specialty software on a computer that is connected to the machine.

How Does a CNC Machine Work?

After the instructions are input into a Computer Aided Design or Computer Aided Manufacturing program, the computer is able to control the machine shop tools in order to create the part. In many projects, the CNC process will involve multiple different machine shop tools, including drills, lathes, milling machines, or other cutting tools.

Depending on the CNC machine, an operator may need to manually turn the part over for the bottom to be machined. However, more advanced CNC machines are completely automated and are able to turn parts over for machining on every surface.

The Benefits of CNC Machines for Many Industries

There are many advantages to CNC machining. The precision that a computer is able to apply to the machining process simply cannot be matched by a human machinist. CNC machining is also considerably faster once the software has been programmed. Mass production is ensured with CNC machining, but there is no decrease in quality and efficiency. CNC machining is meant to be able to provide precise machined parts and products for industries such as medical, renewable energy, aerospace, oil & gas, etc. To improve our way of developing our country, CNC machining is playing a major role in getting machined parts manufactured quickly, efficiently, and highly accurate for these industries. 

It's important that CNC machining continues to play a role, so our technology and innovation can continue to develop even further for industries and technology in the future. We're seeing a trend towards all-electric vehicles, renewable energy projects, advanced medical research, high-speed trains, and much more. We could go on, but these things are coming into our world, and CNC machining will be involved heavily. 

Lowrance Machine is a family-owned business that is built on a reputation of quality and excellence. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment to deliver high-quality products of all sizes, and we have a wide variety of CNC machines to meet the needs of any project. Contact us today at 281-449-6524 to learn more about our services or to request a quote on your next project.

 




TAGGED AS:
  • cnc machining