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.