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CNC Almanac2023-03-31T22:04:40+00:00

cnc almanac

G-code

G-Code: A language used in CNC programming to control the movement and actions of the machine

CAD: Computer-Aided Design

Computer-Aided Design: A software used to create digital designs of parts or products.

CNC

CNC: Computer Numerical Control is a manufacturing process that utilizes computerized systems to control machine tools.

Abrasive blasting

Abrasive blasting: A process that uses abrasive particles to remove surface contaminants or shape a workpiece.

CAM: Computer-Aided Manufacturing

Computer-Aided Manufacturing: A software that generates G-code from CAD designs.

CNC Machining Center

CNC Machining Center: A machine tool that can perform multiple operations in a single setup.

Lathe

Lathe: A machine tool used to cut and shape metal using a rotating tool.

Milling machine

Milling Machine: A machine tool used to remove material from a workpiece using a rotating cutting tool.

Turning

Turning: A machining operation that involves rotating a workpiece on a lathe and cutting away material with a cutting tool.

Milling

Milling: A machining operation that involves using a rotating cutting tool to remove material from a workpiece.

Drilling

Drilling: A machining operation that involves creating holes in a workpiece using a drill bit.

Reaming

Reaming: A machining operation that involves enlarging a previously drilled hole to a specific size.

Tapping

Tapping: A machining operation that involves creating threads in a hole.

Boring

Boring: A machining operation that involves enlarging an existing hole to a specific size.

Facing

Facing: A machining operation that involves cutting a flat surface on the end of a workpiece

Chamfering

Chamfering: A machining operation that involves cutting a beveled edge on the corner of a workpiece.

Contouring

Contouring: A machining operation that involves cutting a complex shape into a workpiece.

Engraving

Engraving: A machining operation that involves cutting a design or lettering into a workpiece.

Surface finish

The texture of the surface of a machined part, which can be controlled by the machining process.

Toolpath

Toolpath: The path that a cutting tool takes during a machining operation.

Workholding

Workholding: The method of securing a workpiece to a machine tool during a machining operation.

Fixture

Fixture: A device used to hold a workpiece in a specific position during a machining operation.

Chuck

Chuck: A device used to hold a workpiece on a lathe or milling machine.

Collet

Collect: A type of chuck that holds a workpiece by squeezing it around the circumference.

Tool holder

Tool Holder: A device used to hold a cutting tool in a machine tool.

Tool insert

Tool Insert: The replaceable cutting edge of a cutting tool.

Cutting speed

Cutting Speed: The speed at which a cutting tool moves across the surface of a workpiece during a machining operation.

Feed rate

Feed Rate: The rate at which a cutting tool moves into a workpiece during a machining operation.

Depth of cut

Depth of Cut: The distance that a cutting tool penetrates into a workpiece during a machining operation.

Chip

Chip: The small pieces of metal that are removed from a workpiece during a machining operation.

Coolant

Coolant: A liquid used to cool and lubricate cutting tools during a machining operation.

Abrasive

Abrasive: A material used to grind, polish, or cut a workpiece.

EDM

EDM: Electrical Discharge Machining. A process that uses electrical sparks to erode metal from a workpiece.

Waterjet cutting

Waterjet cutting: A process that uses a high-pressure stream of water to cut through metal.

Plasma cutting

Plasma cutting: A process that uses a high-temperature plasma arc to cut through metal.

Laser cutting

Laser cutting: A process that uses a high-powered laser beam to cut through metal.

Tramp oil skimmer

Tramp oil skimmer: A device used to remove oil that has mixed with coolant in a CNC machine sump. This helps to maintain the quality of the coolant and improve machining performance.

Coolant venturi mixer

Coolant venturi mixer: A device used to mix coolant and air in a CNC machine. The mixture is then delivered to the cutting tool to improve the lubrication and cooling of the machining operation.

Coolant mixing proportioning pumps

Coolant mixing proportioning pumps: A device used to mix coolant and water in a specific ratio to maintain the quality and concentration of the coolant.

BRIX

BRIX: A unit of measurement used to measure the concentration of a coolant solution. It is used to ensure that the coolant concentration is within the recommended range for optimal machining performance.

Refractometers

Refractometers: A tool used to measure the BRIX or concentration of a coolant solution. It works by measuring the refractive index of the solution.

CNC sump maintenance

CNC sump maintenance: The process of maintaining the coolant system of a CNC machine. This includes monitoring coolant concentration, removing tramp oil, and cleaning the sump to prevent bacterial growth and maintain optimal machining performance.

Whether you are using a lathe, milling machine, or CNC machining center, a variety of cutting operations can be performed to shape and remove material from a workpiece. To achieve optimal machining performance, it is essential to maintain the quality and concentration of the coolant used to cool and lubricate cutting tools. This can be achieved through the use of tramp oil skimmers, coolant venturi mixers, coolant mixing proportioning pumps, BRIX and refractometers, and proper CNC sump maintenance. Additionally, other cutting processes such as EDM, waterjet cutting, plasma cutting, and laser cutting can be used to achieve specific shapes or cuts in metal.

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