CNC MACHINING

ABOUT CNC MACHINES

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control and has been around since the early 1970's.
CNC machining is a process used in the manufacturing sector that involves the use of
computers to control machine tools. Everything that an operator would be required to do with
conventional machine tools is programmable with CNC machines. A computer program is
customized for an object and the machines are programmed with CNC machining language
(called G-code) that essentially controls all features like feed rate, coordination, cut depth,
location and speeds.

All CNC machine types share this commonality: They all have two or more programmable
directions of motion called axes. An axis of motion can be linear (along a straight line) or
rotary (along a circular path). One of the first specifications that implies a CNC machine's
complexity is how many axes it has. Generally speaking, the more axes, the more complex the
machine. The axes of any CNC machine are required for the purpose of causing the motions
needed for the manufacturing process. Axes are named with letters. Common linear axis
names are X, Y, and Z. Common rotary axis names are A, B, and C.

Types of Machines

The most common CNC machines are milling machines, lathes, and grinders. Milling
machines automatically cut materials, including metal, using a cutting spindle, which can
move to different positions and depths as directed by the computer instructions. Lathes use
automated tools that spin to shape material. They are commonly used to make very detailed
cuts in symmetrical pieces, like cones and cylinders.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Many are capable of running for several days without human intervention. These automated
features make it possible to produce thousands of parts with minimal supervision, and free the
operator to perform other tasks.
Besides this, a CNC machine can form parts with a level of precision that is nearly impossible
using older tools. Because of the precision possible with CNC machining, this process can
produce complex shapes that would be almost impossible to achieve with manual machining.
In a conventional factory, workers must control different tools by hand, and errors are
common, but a machine can perform the same task without becoming tired, and can work
non-stop. This saves a lot of time, and the improved accuracy can help eliminate waste, since
there are less faulty parts that have to be thrown away.

Despite their advantages, CNC machines are more expensive than older types of machines,
which can make them unaffordable for smaller operations. They are also expensive to repair
and maintain.

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I. READ THE BENEFITS OF CNC MACHINES AND ADD TWO OTHERS.

These sites may help you:

http://www.hyvac.com/services/machining/mach_cnc.htm
http://www2.mae.ufl.edu/designlab/Lab%20Assignments/EML2322L%20CNC
%20Facts.pdf

 The first benefit offered by all forms of CNC machine tools is improved automation.
The operator intervention related to producing workpieces can be reduced or eliminated.
Many CNC machines can run unattended during their entire machining cycle, freeing the
operator to do other tasks.
This gives the CNC user several side benefits including reduced operator fatigue, fewer
mistakes caused by human error, and consistent and predictable machining time for each
workpiece.
Since the machine will be running under program control, the skill level required of the CNC
operator (related to basic machining practice) is also reduced as compared to a machinist
producing workpieces with conventional machine tools.

 The second major benefit of CNC technology is consistent and accurate

workpieces. Today's CNC machines boast almost unbelievable accuracy and repeatability
specifications. This means that once a program is verified, two, ten, or one thousand identical
workpieces can be easily produced with precision and consistency.

 A third benefit offered by most forms of CNC machine tools is flexibility. Since
these machines are run from programs, running a different workpiece is almost as easy as
loading a different program. Once a program has been verified and executed for one
production run, it can be easily recalled the next time the workpiece is to be run.
This leads to yet another benefit, fast change-overs. Since these machines are very easy to
setup and run, and since programs can be easily loaded, they allow very short setup time.

 Another benefit:

 Another benefit:

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II. COMPLETE THE LIST OF DIS/ADVANTAGES THAT CNC MACHINES HAVE
OVER OLDER, MANUALLY OPERATED MACHINES.

skilled, same, money, expensive, leave, less, update, supervise, off, need,
program, unemployment, exact, designer, lose

ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES

1. CNC machines can be used continuously 24 hours 1. CNC machines are more ___________________
a day, 365 days a year and only need to be switched than manually operated machines, although costs
___________________ for occasional maintenance. are slowly coming down.
2. CNC machines are ___________________ with a 2. The CNC machine operator only
design which can then be manufactured hundreds ___________________ basic training and skills,
or even thousands of times. Each manufactured enough to supervise several machines. In years gone
product will be exactly the ___________________. by, engineers needed years of training to operate
3. Less skilled/trained people can operate CNCs centre lathes, milling machines and other manually
unlike manual lathes / milling machines etc.. which operated machines. This means many of the old
need ___________________ engineers. skills are being ___________________.
4. CNC machines can be ___________________ by 3. ___________________ workers are required to
improving the software used to drive the machines. operate CNC machines compared to manually
5. Modern design software allows the operated machines. Investment in CNC machines
___________________ to simulate the manufacture can lead to ___________________.
of his/her idea. There is no need to make a
prototype or a model. This saves time and
___________________.
6. One person can ___________________ many
CNC machines as once they are programmed they
can usually be ___________________ to work by
themselves. Sometimes only the cutting tools need
replacing occasionally.
7. A skilled engineer can make the same component
many times. However, if each component is
carefully studied, each one will vary slightly. A CNC
machine will manufacture each component as an
___________________ match.

III. READ THE STATEMENT BELOW AND EXPRESS YOUR OPINION.

Many countries no longer teach pupils / students how to use manually operated lathes /
milling machines etc... Pupils / students no longer develop the detailed skills required by
engineers of the past. These include mathematical and engineering skills.
- Your Opinion:

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THE LATHE

The LATHE is a very old tool, dating at least to ancient Egypt. It was very important to the
Industrial Revolution. From the 1950s onward, computer systems were introduced to the lathe
for better precision. The lathe has evolved to the point that today all that is required to operate
one is to push a button.
If you want to learn more about its history, go to the site History of lathe machines
(http://www.ehow.com/facts_5488102_history-lathe-machines.html).

III. MATCH THE MAIN PARTS OF A LATHE.

Slovenian English
1. vpenjalna glava a. computer display
2. konjiček b. tailstock
3. postelja c. guard
4. menjalnik d. carriage
5. vpenjalo za orodje e. lead screw
6. vodila f. ways
7. sani g. spindle speed selector
8. navojno vreteno h. tool post (holder)
9. zaščitni pokrov i. bed
10. računalniški zaslon j. spindle

In the Kranj School Centre there are several traditional lathes and milling machines still kept,
thus forming a precious museum of traditional metalworking. Moreover, the 1990’s CNC
machines (lathes and milling machines) are still kept in the workshops. The present use of
modern HAAS CNC lathes and milling machines in the workshops proves that the school has
been constantly implementing new technologies and innovative methods in the education
process.

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 Lathes in the Kranj School Centre

IV. ON THE PICTURES ABOVE LABEL THE THREE TYPES OF LATHES,

WHICH ARE KEPT IN THE KRANJ SCHOOL CENTRE, BY USING THE
ENGLISH EXPRESSIONS.

Some more examples:

The Livnica Kikinda lathe The EMCO Compact 5 lathe The HAAS 10Y lathe

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 CNC MACHINE AND SAFETY

Safety is a value. Safety rules had to be followed while working with the manual lathes and
safety plays an important role while working with CNC lathes as well.
All turning machines contain hazards from rotating work, loosely clamped parts, belts and
pulleys, high voltage electricity, noise, and compressed air. When using CNC machines and
their components, basic safety precautions must always be followed to reduce the risk of
personal injury and mechanical damage.

V. COMPLETE THE TEXT ABOUT CNC MACHINES AND SAFETY.

instruction, start, stop, manually , design, guard, essential

CNC machines are very safe to use as they are ________________________ to be as safe as
possible. One of the main advantages of CNC machines is that they are much safer than
________________________ operated machines.
Most modern CNC machines are designed so that the cutting tool will not
______________________ unless the guard is in position. Also, the best CNC machines
automatically lock the ______________________ in position whilst the cutter is shaping
material. The guard can only be opened if the cutter has ______________________. Most
CNC machines work behind a guard or even a closed, transparent safety door. This means that
the operators cannot be hurt by 'flying' pieces of sharp/hot material.
Single phase CNC machines can be moved more easily because they are simply unplugged
and relocated. Three phase machines are specially wired by an electrician into the electrical
supply and cannot be unplugged.

It is ________________________ that pupils / students / machine operators receive ‘quality’

_______________________ before attempting to use any CNC equipment.

Compare the old SESŠ leaflet about the safety rules and the HAAS one.

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VI. TRANSLATE INTO ENGLISH.

nevarnost električnega udara - __________________________________________________

nevarnost hudih telesnih poškodb in udarcev - _____________________________________
nevarnost poškodb oči in ušes - _________________________________________________
nevarnost požara in eksplozije - _________________________________________________
premikajoči deli vas lahko porežejo - _____________________________________________

 Interactive exercise – CNC machines and health hazards –

go to http://www2.arnes.si/~sspmsubi/cnc.htm

VII. ANSWER.

- How often should the filters be cleaned?

- Can plain water be used to clean the filters? Why?

- Can flammable or toxic liquids be used as a coolant?

The Haas lathe is to be operated only by authorized and trained personnel in

accordance with the Operator's manual, safety decals, safety procedures, and
instructions for safe machine operation.
It is vital to read all appropriate warnings, cautions, and instructions before
operating this machine.

You can find the HAAS Lathe operator’s manual on this site:
http://diy.haascnc.com/sites/default/files/Locked/Manuals/Operator/2014/Lathe/English/Lathe_Operators_Manual_96-
8900_Rev_A_English_January_2014.pdf

More about HAAS Automation Inc. >>> https://www.haascnc.com/home.asp#gsc.tab=0

DRILL - A machining tool used to penetrate the surface of a workpiece and make a round hole.
GRINDER - A machine that uses an abrasive to wear away at the surface of a workpiece.
LATHE - A tool commonly used to machine cylindrical forms. It is generally considered the backbone of the
machine shop.
MILL - A machining tool used to either horizontally or vertically remove metal from the surface of a workpiece.
PUNCH PRESS - A machine that uses force to either cut or form a workpiece.
SolidWorks, a product of the SolidWorks Corporation, is a 3D Computer-aided design (CAD) program that runs
on Microsoft Windows platforms. It was designed as a cost-effective alternative to 2D CAD packages. It was
introduced in 1993 by newly-founded SolidWorks Corporation as competitor for products like AutoCAD and
others.
http://www.solidworks.com/

Sources:
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-are-cnc-machines.htm, http://www.ask.com/question/what-is-a-lathe-machine-used-for,
http://www.technologystudent.com/cam/camex.htm, https://www.haascnc.com/home.asp#gsc.tab=0

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