If you have just purchased a CNC machine and want to know more about it, you have come to the perfect place. This post takes a close look at the top 10 things you need to know about CNC machining. It is important that you increase your knowledge about CNC by reading this post. Starting work on a new project might seem exciting. You could think about making an electronic guitar, clock parts, or bicycles with the machine. There is nothing that you cannot make with the machine. It allows you to create anything that you can imagine. However, before you take on a large and complex project, the following things should be considered.
- Purchase Quality Cutters
One of the most important things that you need to know about CNC machining is that it requires quality cutters. You should avoid getting low-quality, cheap cutters as they would be unable to provide you the precision and accuracy that you are looking for. Now, it does not mean that you need to purchase cutters. Opt for cutters from a famous brand for the best price. They will help you create quality products. On the other hand, if you use low-quality, the final product would have issues and faulty output would be high.
- Get a Quality Visa, a Clamping Kit, and a Set of Parallels
To ensure that everything goes smoothly and things stay in place, you need to think about work holding. A high quality vise is extremely important. It should last a long time. The part should not shift from its position. As for the clamping kit, it will mount onto the vise. As for a set of parallels, they will help keep the tools raised.
- Misting Set Up Is Required for the Coolant
To prevent chip buildup, it is a good idea to set up a misting for the coolant. The misting set up is available in two types. It includes a micro-drop option and one that is siphon-based. If you opt for a micro-drop system, it would pressurize the coolant to keep the air and coolant in different chambers until the tip of the tool is hit. As for the siphon system, it would atomize the coolant into an aerosol. Hence, it can be somewhat messy. The micro-drop system would allow the coolant to vaporize as it hits the work piece. Thus, it is a lot more efficient. With the right misting system, you would be able to prevent any chip buildup.
- Learn How to Use MDI (Manual Data Input)
Another thing that you need to know about CNC machining is learning how to use MDI. It will help you save a ton of time. In fact, you will be able to increase your productivity significantly. You can use the MDI keypad for just about everything such as creating different types of products and more. With just a bit of learning, you will be able to save a ton of time. With some learning, you can set basic g-codes, move the axes, adjust the coordinates, and move the machine rapidly.
- Get a Feeds and Speeds Calculator
If you want greater accuracy, it is advised that you buy a feeds and speeds calculator. When making your cuts, it is important that you focus on accuracy. A feeds and speeds calculator will provide you with much-needed accuracy. It can be used to determine the spindle speeds and ensure precise cuts.
The thing about CNC machining is that it is completely different from manual machining. This is why it is vital that you get the feeds and speeds right from the beginning.
- Consider Getting a Touch Tool Measuring the Device
A touch tool measuring device can come in handy. It will accurately measure the Z-heights and more. Similarly, you can also get an Edge Finder to set your part zeros. For maximum accuracy, you should know where the tip of the tool is. The touch tool would enable the machine to know what the tool length is. As you would know about the tip, you can set the position of both X and Y. The machinery tools will make your life a whole lot easier.
- Tram the Mill and Vise to Ensure Accurate Cuts
Tram refers to just how square the mill head is to the table. The tram parallel covers the x-axis and the y-axis. You need to check the tram on the mill when working on a new project. The mill has to be in tram to allow for accurate cuts. Besides, it would also provide the best finishes. Every machinist needs to learn more about it.
- Avoid Going near the Stainless Steel
When working with CNC machining, it is best that you keep away from stainless steel. The same goes for mild steel, brass, and aluminum. The initial tips have prepared you to keep going. When you first start out, it is important that you avoid using harder materials such as stainless steel for the first cuts. You need to be confident about which materials you use. It is important that you master the cuts to reduce the likelihood of premature wear or breaking of the product.
- Use Aluminum Material
Make a square block of material by using aluminum material. You can easily create vise jaws by using your saw to cut small pieces of the material. You can cut the stock in the desired manner. Next, you have to square the blocks and ensure that all of the sides are perpendicular or parallel to one another.
- Use CAD/ CAM
Finally, you need to use CAD/ CAM to make the most of CNC machining. It will allow you to create custom CNC parts and more. It is vital that you take advantage of the techniques for developing a variety of products.
Conclusion
Now that you know the top 10 things about CNC machining, nothing stands in the way of you making the most of it.