The Importance of High Precision CNC Machining
There are a few ways to create physical parts from computer designs; one is through 3D printing, and the other is through CNC precision machining. Avon Machining is an excellent supplier of high precision parts.
In this blog post, we will explore the importance of precision CNC machining, its applications in specific areas, and why you have heard of 3D printing but not CNC machining.
1.3D Printing vs. CNC Machining
3D printing has become ubiquitous over the past few years, and like many consumers, you probably own one. However, high precision CNC machining is not for consumers, so it is the lesser-known of the two types.
This article will improve your knowledge and understanding of the importance of this type of machining in the products we use every day in business and life.
1) Manufacturing Process
① Additive
The manufacturing process of a 3D printer is the exact opposite of that of CNC machining, starting with no material and then gradually adding the right amount of material until you get the product at the end.
② Subtractive
In contrast, CNC machining is a more traditional process, which is a subtractive process, that is, starting with a piece of physical material and then removing the excess to get the desired product.
2.Why is high precision CNC machining so important?
Many industries are eager to use micro components in their products, a trend in industries such as electronics, medical components, energy components and life science research.
With the development of computer power, telecommunications and the Internet, the demand for microprocessing services is increasing worldwide, and the technology industry is particularly interested.
The latest music equipment, phones and computers are just a few examples of industries that require precision CNC machining of tiny parts with the highest accuracy. Advances in the medical, fiber optic and satellite industries are also requiring micromachining companies around the world to improve their precision machining capabilities.
The first computer numerically controlled precision machines were introduced in the 1940s. They were card punches and were popular with companies until the late 1980s.
CNC machining technology has undergone substantial technological changes from the end of the last century to today. With the rapid development of five-axis CNC machining technology, more and more prototype manufacturers have put forward higher requirements for the machining accuracy of parts.
For example, if the size of a device is reduced, the parts that make it work will also become smaller and smaller to obtain better performance and higher efficiency.
3.Jobs
From a career perspective, there is a high demand for team leadership, business management, and experience in more specific areas, including:
1) CNC machine tool worker or specialist
Roles include tool group production, turning and stamping (some positions may require programming skills as well as fixture design and development). The ability to push the machine to exceed the manufacturer’s expected design and tolerances, thereby maximizing its performance.
2) Machinist
Roles from operator to shop manager
4.Major industries using high-precision machining
1) Medical device industry
5-axis milling and EDM are favorites for manufacturers of cardiovascular and orthopedic devices, surgical instruments, and implants.
Many factors can affect the results of medical procedures. The same is true for medical CNC machining. If the equipment can control temperature and dust, ensuring a perfect environment and tight tolerances for each process, then high-precision results can be guaranteed.
①Surgical scissors
An essential tool in almost all medical procedures, when not used to cut into the skin, they are used for suturing. Surgical scissors come in a variety of shapes and sizes for various applications – they are particularly small when used in ophthalmic surgery.
Surgical device manufacturers often look for a reliable CNC machining shop that can deliver incredible results
②Cannulas
Medical products such as intravenous cannulas are in high demand because they are used in medical centers almost everywhere in the world. Like many surgical instruments, they come in a variety of sizes, similar to pin gauges. Only the most advanced equipment, such as multi-axis milling machines and wire cutters, can produce high-precision cannulas.
③Guidelines for using saws for orthopedic surgery
Helps orthopedic surgeons make the cleanest cuts possible and prevent cutting too deep into the bone when sawing. Orthopedic surgery requires the highest precision machining tools to produce the highest precision results.
2) Aircraft
For more than a century, modern aircraft have moved away from the days of wooden, wire rope, and canvas biplanes, requiring ever-increasing precision and complexity to maintain consistent efficiency, safety, and durability.
The complexity of modern aircraft cannot be overstated: complex avionics and trim systems, aircraft turbines, hydraulic surfaces, and advanced engines all require advanced components to operate.
As air travel has been established and expanded, aircraft fleets have always needed the best components to operate efficiently, reliably, and safely. Precision and accuracy are critical in machining civil and military aerospace parts.
In many cases, high-precision machining engineers refine the design of components to improve the overall application level.
Revolutionary 5-axis CNC machines and wire cutting services make aircraft parts faster and more accurate. Fast turnaround times coupled with consistent accuracy make it easy to produce the most precise parts.
5.Summary
With the third, fourth, and fifth industrial revolutions, our businesses and industries such as medical and aviation have reached higher levels.
As consumers, we have equally high expectations for technology. We want appliances and products to be smaller, smarter, and greener, and our smart devices to be faster, smarter, and smaller.
Therefore, the application prospects of high precision CNC machining in the manufacturing industry will be endless.