Introduction to NC/CNC

Definitions of NC/CNC
Numerical Control (NC) is the term used to describe the control of machine movements and various other functions by instructions expressed as a series of numbers and initiated via an electronic control system. Consequently, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is the term used when the electronic control system is influenced by a computer. [1]

Definitions of NC/CNC cont.

Numerical Control (NC) is the operation of a machine tool by a series of coded instructions consisting of numbers, letters of the alphabet and symbols that the machine control unit (MCU) can understand. These instructions are converted into electrical pulses of current that the machines motors and controls follow to carry out machining operations on a workpiece. The numbers, letters and symbols are coded instructions that refer to specific distances, positions, functions or motions which the machine tool can understand as it machines the workpiece. [2]

Definitions of NC/CNC cont.

Computer Numerical Control is the control of a machine tool using numbers and letters. It is a system in which programmed numerical values are directly inserted and stored on some form of input medium and automatically read and decode to cause a corresponding movement in the machine which it is controlling.[4]

Definitions of NC/CNC cont.

CNC is the process of manufacturing machined parts using a computerized controller to command motors which drive each machine axis

Effect of NC/CNC in Manufacturing

NC and CNC have changed the manufacturing industry more specifically the metalworking industry.[2]

Machines that are combined with NC or CNC can produce and fabricate parts with an accuracy that is nearly impossible to achieve by human operators. [2]

Effect of NC/CNC in Manufacturing cont.

Furthermore, these parts can be replicated many times over given that the NC or CNC controls and commands allow it.[2] The operating commands that control the machine tool are executed automatically with amazing speed, accuracy, efficiency and repeatability. [2]

Effect of NC/CNC in Manufacturing cont.

Reasons for using CNC/NC [3]: Increase production throughput Improve the quality and accuracy of manufactured parts Stabilize manufacturing costs Manufacture complex or otherwise impossible jobs 2D and 3D contours

Getting to Know the CNC

CNC Manufacturing Process

Machine Tool Control

Slide Movement

Spindle Rotation

Tooling

Work Holding

Supporting Function

CNC Manufacturing Process cont.

Slide movement - is usually achieved by electric servo motors although there are some that uses hydraulically operated pistons. - The plane in which movement can take place may be longitudinal, transverse or vertical. - The direction in which a slide moves is achieved by the direction of the rotation of the motor (cw or ccw).

CNC Manufacturing Process cont.

Spindle Rotation - Control of machine spindles are driven directly or indirectly by electric motors. - The speed of the spindle is often infinitely variable and will automatically changes as cutting is taking place to maintain a programmed surface speed.

CNC Manufacturing Process cont.

Tooling - may incorporate turrets or magazines which hold a number of cutting tools. - The machine controller can be programmed to cause indexing of the turret or magazine to present a new cutting tool to the work or to facilitate tool removal and replacement where automatic tool-changing devices are involved.

CNC Manufacturing Process cont.

Work holding - can be fairly conventional: vices, chucks, collets and fixtures are all used. - The NC can extend to loading the workpiece by the use of robots and securely clamping it by activating hydraulic or pneumatic clamping systems.

CNC Manufacturing Process cont.

Supporting functions - supplementary functions that are done during machining which might be vital to the success of the operation. - Tool monitoring might also fall under this category.

Machining Process
Roughing Semi Roughing Semi Finishing Finishing

History of NC/CNC
1947 Developed a control system that directed a spindle to many points in succession Added computer to Parsons system Cincinnati Milicron Hydro-Tel Vertical Spindle Milling Machine

1951 1952

History of NC/CNC cont.

1954 1957 NC was announced in public First production NC machines were delivered and installed NC machine tool commonly available

1960

Advantages of NC/CNC
Flexibility of operation is improved, as is the ability to produce complex shapes with good dimensional accuracy, repeatability, reduced scrap loss, and high production rates, productivity and product quality Tooling costs are reduced, since templates and other fixtures are not required.

Advantages of NC/CNC cont.

Machine adjustments are easy to make with microcomputers and digital readouts Simplified inspection. Once the first piece has passed inspection, minimal inspection is required on subsequent parts

Advantages of NC/CNC cont.

More operations can be performed with each setup, and less lead time for setup and machining is required compared to conventional methods. Design changes are facilitated, and inventory is reduced. Programs can be prepared rapidly and can be recalled at any time utilizing microprocessors. Less paperwork is involved.

Advantages of NC/CNC cont.

Faster prototype production is possible. Required operator skill is less than that for a qualified machinist, and the operator has more time to attend to other tasks in the work area.

Limitations of NC/CNC
Relatively high initial cost of the equipment. The need and cost for programming and computer time. Special maintenance with trained personnel.

Limitations of NC/CNC cont.

High preventative maintenance since breakdowns is costly. Tools on NC machines do not cut metal any faster than conventional machines

NC does not eliminate the need for expensive tools.

Limitations of NC/CNC cont.

NC will not totally eliminate errors. Operators can still fail to push the correct buttons, make incorrect alignments and fail to locate parts properly in a fixture. Physical limitations

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