What is CNC Machining
CNC machining is a process that uses computer numerical control (CNC) to control machinery and tools for manufacturing. The computer controls the motion and operation of the machinery by executing pre-programmed sequences of controlled commands, using a special language called G-code. G-code tells the machine exactly how to produce items by specifying the feed rate, speed, location, and coordination of the tooling. This high degree of accuracy means that CNC machines are able to create a variety of parts from various materials with extreme precision.
The CNC machining process.
The process begins with the creation of a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) or CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) file that contains instructions for the machine.
An engineer or designer creates the CAD file which is then loaded into the CNC machine’s memory via computer control software.
The design is then sent to the cutting tool on the work piece using a gantry system that moves along X, Y & Z axes controlled by servos at high speeds (typically 40000 mm/min). A simple two-axis machine can cut up to 500 mm wide x 300 mm long x 20 mm deep while more complex 5-axis machines can cut work pieces up to 2000 mm x 2000 mm x 100 mm deep using laser technology over milling tools.
The instructions tell the machine how to move and when to cut or drill, creating the desired part.
What can CNC machines make?
CNC machining can be used to produce a wide range of components from simple, one-off parts to complex assemblies. Used widely in the aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer industries, CNC machining is faster and more cost-effective than traditional machining methods and can be used to create complex parts with high precision.
What are the advantages of CNC machining?
CNC machining allows manufacturers to:
- produce accurate parts quickly.
- produce parts with intricate details and shapes.
- produce parts using a wide range of materials.
- create high-precision parts cost-effectively.
- produce parts while creating minimal waste.
CNC machining has revolutionised the way parts are manufactured today. It’s quick, precise and cost effective and a great way to ensure absolute precision, time after time.
Choose Erlson for your CNC machining needs.
Erlson Precision Components has been producing high-quality turbocharger components for over 40 years. We work with a wide range of industries and sectors, always delivering exceptional products and outstanding customer service.
From our 75,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in the North West of England, we operate some of the finest state-of-the-art CNC robots, machine tools, and handling equipment in the world.
Here are just a few of our CNC machining capabilities.
CNC Turning
CNC turning (sometimes called subtraction machining) involves bars of material being clamped in a chuck and rotated at speed while a cutting tool removes material from the exterior and/or interior, until the intended shape is achieved.
We run a range of turning machines, including sub-spindle sliding head CNCs and bar fed twin spindle CNCs.
CNC Cylindrical Grinding
Cylindrical grinding is similar to turning, in that the material being machined is rotated around a central axis. However, instead of material being cut away, cylindrical grinding uses a grinding wheel to created profiled, stepped, tapered or straight outer surfaces.
Our cylindrical grinding machines include CNC Centreless Grinders and Double Disk Face Grinders.
CNC Cross Hatch Honing
CNC honing a highly specialised area of manufacturing. Although it is a computer-controlled process, highly skilled operators are still required. Homing refines surface finishes on a wide range of precision machined components with a round bore.
CNC Milling
CNC milling is used to manufacture very intricate parts. The higher the number of axes the CNC milling machine has, the more complicated and intricate the final piece can be.
We have 3, 4 and 5 axis machining centres, allowing us to produce incredibly complex parts..
Contact our team
Erlson Precision Components has decades of precision engineering expertise, manufacturing turbocharger components to bespoke specifications and to the tightest dimensional tolerances, for a variety of demanding automotive and specialist engineering applications.
If you have a CNC machining project and would like to chat to us about how we can help you, call one of our team on 0161 925 5160 or drop us a line via our contact form.