Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this guide will help you understand the key terms and concepts in CNC machining.
A
- Axis
Refers to the directions in which a CNC machine can move. Common setups include 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machines, which allow for movement along X, Y, Z, and rotational planes. - Adaptive Clearing
A CAM strategy designed for efficient material removal while minimizing tool wear. - Automation
The use of computer systems to operate CNC machines with minimal human intervention.
B
- Ball Screw
A precision mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion, commonly used to move CNC machine axes. - Bed
The base structure of a CNC machine that supports the workpiece and machining components. - Bit
A cutting tool used in CNC machining, often referred to as an end mill or drill bit.
C
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
Software used to create precise 2D or 3D designs for CNC machining. - CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
Software used to convert CAD designs into machine instructions (G-code). - Chip Load
The thickness of material removed by a single cutting edge of the tool during machining. - Controller
The computer or electronic device that interprets G-code and sends commands to the CNC machine.
D
- Depth of Cut
The amount of material removed in one pass of the cutting tool. - Drill Press
A machine used for drilling holes in materials, often included in CNC operations. - Dynamic Milling
An advanced milling technique designed to optimize tool paths and improve material removal rates.
E
- End Mill
A type of cutting tool used in CNC milling to remove material from a workpiece. - Engraving
A process of cutting or carving designs into a material surface using a CNC machine. - Extrusion
The process of shaping material by forcing it through a die, often used in conjunction with CNC machining.
F
- Feed Rate
The speed at which the cutting tool moves through the material, measured in inches per minute (IPM) or millimeters per minute (mm/min). - Fixture
A device used to hold a workpiece in place during machining. - Flute
The grooves on a cutting tool that allow chips to escape during machining.
G
- G-Code
The programming language used to control CNC machines, specifying movements, speeds, and tool actions. - Grain Direction
The orientation of fibers in materials like wood, which affects machining quality. - Grooving
A machining operation that creates narrow cuts or channels in a workpiece.
H
- High-Speed Machining (HSM)
A machining technique that uses increased speeds and lower depths of cut for faster production. - Hybrid Machine
A CNC machine that combines additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques.
I
- Interpolation
The process of generating smooth curves or movements in CNC machining, such as circular interpolation. - IoT (Internet of Things)
The integration of smart technology and data sharing in CNC operations.
L
- Lead Screw
A screw mechanism that drives the movement of CNC machine axes. - Linear Motion
Straight-line movement along an axis, controlled by ball screws or guide rails. - Lubrication
Essential for reducing friction and extending the lifespan of CNC components.
M
- M-Code
Machine control codes used in CNC programming to manage auxiliary functions like coolant or spindle on/off. - Mill
A CNC machine that performs milling operations to remove material and shape the workpiece. - Multi-Axis Machining
CNC operations involving more than three axes for greater flexibility and complexity.
P
- Parametric Programming
A programming technique that uses variables to create flexible and reusable CNC programs. - Plunge Rate
The speed at which a cutting tool enters the material. - Post-Processor
Software that translates CAM output into G-code tailored for a specific CNC machine.
R
- Rapid Traverse
The fast movement of the machine’s axes when not cutting, to save time between operations. - RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
The speed at which the spindle rotates the cutting tool. - Router
A type of CNC machine designed for cutting softer materials like wood or plastics.
S
- Spindle
The rotating component of a CNC machine that holds the cutting tool. - Surface Finish
The texture and quality of a machined surface, often specified in micrometers or microinches.
T
- Toolpath
The route the cutting tool follows to machine the workpiece. - Tool Wear
The gradual degradation of a cutting tool during machining. - Tolerance
The allowable deviation from a specified dimension in machining.
W
- Workholding
Techniques or devices used to secure a workpiece during machining. - Workpiece
The material being machined in a CNC operation.
Z
- Z-Axis
The vertical axis in a CNC machine, controlling up-and-down movement.
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