What is Precision Machining?
Precision machining is the manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machine tools for parts production.
Precision machining is used to make parts requiring tight tolerances, high complexity, or both. The operator is called a precision machinist.
It is a subtractive manufacturing process where the machine starts with a block and removes material from the block with a cutting tool.
Precision machining is frequently used for making an assortment of parts that fit and work together.
Successful precision machining relies on a combination of two factors.
Firstly, quality precision machining requires a high-end cutting tool capable of removing the material carefully to match the final dimensions and provide a low tolerance.
Secondly, the process requires a controlling mechanism by a Computer Numerical Control machine.
Using high-speed robotics, CNC device automatically moves the cutting tool around the workpiece without requiring manual interaction.
What are the Benefits of CNC Precision Machining?
The cost of
CNC precision machining can be a bit higher than regular machining methods.
However, the benefits that the process offers makes it worth the extra investment. Here are some of the benefits:
Tight Tolerances
Tight tolerances are the primary reason to implement CNC precision machining.
Tolerance is also known as dimensional accuracy.
It refers to the slight deviation in dimensions of a machined part from its CAD blueprints.
CNC precision machining uses specialized processes and cutting tools that rely on reducing the tolerances to the minimum values possible.
This leads to a high accuracy of parts as intended in their blueprints.
What Is precision machining tolerances
There are four different types of tolerances in generally performed precision machining:
Unilateral Tolerances: In this type of tolerance, the variation of dimensions is permitted in a single direction. The tolerance limit can either be above or below the intended size.
Bilateral Tolerances: In this type of tolerance, the variation of dimensions is permitted in both directions. It is accepted for the tolerance limit to be both above or below the intended size.
Compound Tolerances: Compound tolerance is the final tolerance calculated after adding or subtracting the tolerances of different dimensions that make up a part.
Limit Dimensions: In limit dimensions, the upper and lower limit of the dimension is defined instead of defining the required size of a dimension. For instance, it is preset that the dimension can fall in the range of 20 mm to 22 mm.
High Accuracy
The tight tolerances directly infer that the final product by precision machining will have high accuracy. Precision machining is generally performed for parts that require interworking with other parts and components. Therefore, high accuracy becomes essential for these particular parts to work flawlessly in later stages.
High Repeatability
The concept of repeatability is one of the important foundation stones for modern manufacturing industries. Every part manufactured by a process is intended to look like every other part for the end user. Any deviation from this reproduction seems like a defect. Precision machining is quite desirable in this regard. With high precision CNC machining, every part seems like the original due to the negligible deviations.
Low Production Costs
Due to the lack of deviations in precision machining, there are lesser defective productions. This leads to lower rejections when these processes produce parts. Therefore, the cost of material is quite lower. Additionally, the whole process is automated and controlled by computer-aided manufacturing. This results in a reduced cost of labor. The combined reduction in labor costs and material costs means that the production costs of CNC machining are lower than any alternatives.
Speed and Efficiency
Precision machining involves high-speed robotics that can create parts faster than manual manufacturing or conventional lathes. Additionally, the parts have high accuracy and finishing, so there is no requirement to take them through secondary processes. This leads to faster production of parts, increasing the workshop’s efficiency.
Safety
A CNC machine replaces human labor with computer numerical control. This eliminates the human risk factor involved in the cutting processes. The human labor can be transferred to more skill-requiring roles such as CNC operations.
