13 Parts of CNC Machine + Function & PDF: A Clear

Guide
linquip.com/blog/parts-of-cnc-machine/

July 20, 2022

Parts of CNC Machine + Function – Some significant components and elements that
contribute to the machine’s efficacy are present in machine tools with CNC systems.
Before utilizing any CNC machine, one must be familiar with the control code, according
to a previous post. We have looked at two G-codes and two M-codes.

Basics of CNC Machining?

Understanding the CNC process and how it functions will help you better grasp the
challenges associated with properly using your data for a CNC-controlled machining or
cutting operation. This little introduction should be useful.

Some Basic Definitions

CNC: Computer Numerical Control – A computer and CAM software are used to
automate, control, and observe the motions of a machine using digital data. The machine
might be a robot, router, lathe, grinder, welder, sheet metal stamping machine, laser or
waterjet cutter, or any number of other devices. The computer is often an on-board
specialized controller for bigger industrial machinery. However, the computer can be an
external PC for machines that are more suited to hobbies or with certain retrofits. In order
to move and control the machine axes and carry out the preprogrammed movements, the
CNC controller collaborates with a number of motors and drive components. The
advanced feedback system that continuously analyzes and modifies the cutter’s speed
and position is often present on industrial equipment.

Desktop CNC: There are a lot of smaller desktop CNC machines designed for model
makers and hobbyists. These are often less costly, slower, less accurate, less stiff, lighter,
and less rigid than their industrial equivalents, but they work well for milling things made
of softer materials like plastic, foam, and wax. Some desktop computers may operate
quite similarly to a printer. Others may even have specialized CAM software and their
own closed command system. A few will also take input in the form of regular G-code.
Certain desktop industrial standard machines have specific controllers for performing fine
tiny operations.

CAM: Computer-Aided Machining or Manufacturing – This is the process of using

different software programs to generate toolpaths and NC code for a CNC-operated
machine based on data from 3D computer models (CAD). The combination of the two is
frequently referred to as CAD/CAM.

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It should be noted that CAM only generates code for the CNC machine to follow.
Additionally, it does not import your CAD model and automatically generates the
appropriate NC code. In order to execute the program, create machining strategies, and
know which tools and operations to employ in each circumstance to produce the best
results, CAM programming, like 3D modeling, requires knowledge and expertise. While
there are certain straightforward programs that a novice user can pick up and use without
too much trouble, more complex models require time and financial commitment to
become skilled.

NC code: This is a unique, relatively basic computer language that can be understood
and used by CNC machines. These languages were first created to enable direct part
programming at the keyboard of the machine without needing a CAM application. Along
with managing other machine operations like spindle and feed speeds and coolant, they
instruct the machine on what actions to do one at a time. The most widely used language
is G-code, often known as ISO code, a basic alphanumeric programming language
created in the 1970s for the first CNC machines.

Postprocessor: Although G-code is regarded as the industry standard, individual

manufacturers are free to change certain components, such as auxiliary functions,
making it possible for G-code designed for one machine to malfunction on another. Many
machine makers have also created their own programming languages, including
Heidenhain and Mazak. Therefore, there is a bridge software component software called
a postprocessor to convert the internally determined routes of the CAM software into
precise NC code that the CNC machine can interpret. Once properly set, the post
processor generates the appropriate code for the selected machine, allowing any CAM
system to produce code for any machine theoretically. Postprocessors may come with the
CAM system for free or at an additional fee.

CNC machining (Reference: indiamart.com)

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How Do CNC Machines Work?
All-automatic CNC machines are available nowadays. All they need are digital files with
details on the cutting instruments and trajectories.

A variety of tools are required for design or machining procedures to produce a particular
product. Digital tool libraries that are connected to the actual machine can be made by
machinists. Because they can switch tooling automatically based on digital instructions,
these machines are production workhorses.

The initial stage of CNC production is the component design using CAD software. The 3D
model is used to establish the necessary dimensions and features for the finished
product.

Since several of these programs are part of CAD-CAM packages, the flow can continue in
the same programs. Otherwise, CAD models are employed with CAM software. If the
CAD and CAM systems are from the same product family, no file translation is necessary.
Otherwise, the CAD files must be imported.

Thanks to CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software, the model is prepared for the
full production process. It starts by checking the model for errors. Then, CNC software is
used to construct the real piece.

The program is simply a set of coordinates that directs the cutting head throughout the
production process.

The final step is choosing the proper parameters. These include parameters like voltage,
RPMs, and cutting speed. The configuration is influenced by the part’s shape as well as
the equipment and tooling that are available.

Finally, the software chooses the nesting. The term “nesting” describes how parts are
arranged and orientated in relation to raw resources. The objective is to make the most
out of the resources.

Then, using all of this data, M-code and G-code are generated, which the machinery can
understand.

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 Working principle of a CNC machine (Reference: timebusinessnews.com)

13 Parts of CNC Machine

13 Parts of CNC Machine are:

The Input Device

Machine Control Unit
Machine Tools
The Drive System
Feedback Mechanism
Display Unit
Bed
Headstock
The Tailstock
Tailstock Quill
Pedal or a Footswitch
Chuck
The Control Panel

The primary components of a CNC machine are represented by the following:

The Input Device

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These are the tools used to enter part-programming data into a CNC machine. Three
types of input devices are often used: magnetic tape readers, punch tape readers, and
computers connected via RS-232-C.

Machine Control Unit

The CNC machine’s brain is here. The MCU completes all of the CNC machine’s
controlling operations. It completes and decodes the provided instructions and reads
them among the many jobs. The coded instruction is decoded by it. This axis employs
interpolation (linear, spherical, and helical) to create motion commands.

It supplies the amplifier circuit driving the spindle mechanism with the axis speed order.
For each driving axis, it gets feedback signals indicating position and speed. It supports
auxiliary control features like tool change, coolant, or spindle on/off.

Machine Tools

To manage position and speed, a CNC machine tool is always equipped with a sliding
table and a spindle. The X, Y, and Z axes of the machine are used to operate the tables,
while the Z-axis is used to control the spindle.

The Drive System

The ball drive motors, lead screws, and amplifier circuit make up the CNC machine’s
driving system. The MCU provides the amplifier circuit with the signals (i.e., position and
speed) from each axis.

The drive motors are then turned on by amplifying the control signals. And to position the
machine table, actuated drive motors turn the ball lead screw.

Feedback Mechanism
Transducers, which serve as sensors in the system, are used. Another name for it is a
measuring system. It is made up of position and motion transducers that constantly track
the location and movement of the cutting tool.

The MCU receives signals from these transducers and creates control signals to rectify
position and motion faults by comparing reference signals to response signals and
comparing response signals to reference signals.

Display Unit

Programs, instructions, and other essential information about the CNC machine are
shown on a monitor.

Bed

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On CNC machines, these components carry the whole machine’s weight, necessitating
mounting all other parts. Due to the fact that the tool turret in CNC lathe machines travels
over them, the bed component is built of harder materials like cast iron.

Headstock

Due to the fact that the workpieces are secured to the headstock, it is one of the key parts
of CNC lathe machines. The primary axle of the CNC lathe is driven by motors.

The Tailstock
When a CNC machine is used to conduct tasks like noodling, threading, and turning, this
lathe gives the workpiece more grip. On the workpiece’s end surfaces, support is offered.

Tailstock Quill
Thanks to the tailstock quill, the workpieces are more evenly distributed between the
headstock and the tailstock.

Pedal or a Footswitch
The tailstock quill is transferred to the forward and reversed positions, for example, as the
pedal is utilized to open and shut the chuck while attempting to grip the component.

Chuck

Because the chuck is positioned on the main axle, the tool has room to fix.

The Control Panel

Control panels are one of the key components of CNC machines that are utilized to set or
feed programs for the operation to be carried out on the workpieces. It is sometimes
referred to as the CNC machine’s brain.

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 Various parts of a CNC machine (Reference: mechanicaljungle.com)

Advantages of CNC Machining

CNC machines assist manufacturers in enhancing productivity and accuracy and help
lower the risk of human error by enabling them to automate various production operations
that would otherwise need to be carried out manually.

Here are 5 significant ways they have changed engineering:

CNC Machining Is Excellent For Producing Lots Of Parts

If you need to produce more mechanical components in larger quantities (from the upper
double digits to the 100s), CNC is likely to be the most cost-effective option since it is far
less expensive to use CNC machining than 3D printing.

Various Materials May Be Worked On Using CNC Machines

While CNC machines are usually unconcerned with the materials they are cutting, 3D
printing primarily focuses on plastics as long as the material is robust enough to avoid
deforming or melting under the pressure of the cutting operation. At Geomiq, we take
great care to use the appropriate material for each item and provide over 60 production
quality materials for CNC machining. Aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium alloy, zinc
alloy, titanium, and brass are the metals utilized most frequently.

CNC Equipment Produces Items Swiftly

You likely won’t be surprised to learn that machines operate more quickly than people do.
You may receive the final goods in as little as 5 days when you purchase your CNC
machined components from a perfect CNC machine.

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CNC Equipment Is Very Precise
A typical CNC tolerance is +/- 0.127mm, and when you utilize the tolerance configurator,
you can anticipate precise machining down to +/- 0.005mm, giving you an indication of
how exactly they are.

There Are Several Post-Processing And Finishing Choices With CNC

Machining

For instance, a CNC machine provides high-quality finishing procedures, including

anodizing, polishing, heat treating, plating, powder coating, and more, for the majority of
CNC-machined parts.

Limitations of CNC Controlled Machines

CNC machines’ capabilities may be constrained by the sophistication and age of their
control and drive systems. The majority of CNC controllers only comprehend circular arcs
and straight-line motions. The arcs are often only allowed on the main XYZ planes in
many machines. Rotating an axis can be thought of as moving linearly, only in degrees
rather than in space. Two or more axes must interpolate (move precisely and
synchronously together) in order to produce arc motions or linear movements that are at
an angle to the major axis. Also capable of simultaneous interpolation are rotary and
linear axes. Five-axis machines require that all five be precisely synced, which is a
difficult undertaking.

It is crucial that the machine controller can interpret incoming data quickly, send orders to
the drive system, and keep track of the machine’s speed and location. In this regard,
older and less costly devices are plainly less competent, much as how an older computer
would perform demanding tasks less effectively and more slowly (if at all) than a modern
one.

Conclusion
This post has produced a collection of data on CNC machining, its working principle,
applications, limitations, and advantages. You are also encouraged to visit the Linquip
website to learn more about these machines, as well as to find providers of additional
industrial and commercial items. You can also visit our CNC Milling Machines Suppliers
and Companies to find out a complete list of CNC machine products and suppliers.

FAQs about CNC Machining

1. How Does A CNC Machine Work Step By Step?

In order to move and control the machine axes and carry out the preprogrammed
movements, the CNC controller collaborates with a number of motors and drive
components. The advanced feedback system that continuously analyzes and modifies

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the cutter’s speed and position is often present on industrial equipment.

2. What Is G-Code and M Code?

The machine control language, often known as M code or G code, governs the whole
program. M code governs the machine’s activities, whereas G instructions define
locations. Although M stands for many codes, some people refer to it as machine code
since it manages specific equipment functions.

3. How Many Types Of CNC Machines Are There?

CNC machines come in eight different varieties: mills, routers, lathes, plasma cutters,
laser cutters, water jet cutters, electrical discharge machines (EDM), grinders, and water
jet cutters.

4. Is CNC Easy To Learn?

If you have a basic understanding of technical design, computer and arithmetic skills, and
manual machining expertise, you may become proficient at writing G-code and 2d-CAM
programs in just one week.

5. Can You Teach Yourself CNC?

Given a rudimentary understanding of math and an understanding of how milling
functions, learning very basic CNC programming is simple. Usually, you can master this
within a few days. While learning advanced CNC programming might take many years,
learning intermediate programming abilities can be taught in a year.

6. What Are The Main Components of a CNC Machine?

Three fundamental parts make up a computer numerical control (CNC) system:

processing apparatus, often known as a machine tool, a machine control unit, and CNC
software, which is a set of instructions.

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