What is a CNC station and how does it work?
Numerical control (English: Numerical control) or NC refers to the automation of machine tools that operate by carefully programmed commands on a storage medium, as opposed to manual verification.
Computer numerical control (English: Computer Numerical Control), or CNC, is the automation of tools and machines using computers that have the ability to execute machine control commands. This method is against machines that work manually.
In modern CNC machine tools, the design of a mechanical part and its production program are fully automated. The mechanical geometry of the object is defined using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and then it is converted into manufacturing and manufacturing instructions by computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. Finally, these instructions, which are understandable to the system of a production machine, are loaded on a numerical control machine (CNC).
Since a specific component may need different tools such as: drill, saw, lathe, etc. to be made; Modern machines are often a combination of multiple tools in a single cell.
History:
After the mass production of NC machines, researchers and critics of this machine realized that this machine could be upgraded. It was at the same time that the computer industry had grown significantly. The growth of the world of computers made researchers think of controlling all devices with the help of computers, and NC devices were no exception. A series of engineers from all over the world gathered at MIT and discussed the NC machine control project through computers. After 2 months of discussion and discussion about whether these devices are worth upgrading or not, finally, the order to build a new series of these devices was issued by the president of MIT; And after 3 years of working on this project, the computer numerical control (CNC) machine was invented in 1959.
⚫️ CNC device
CNC tool movement is generally controlled along the X (length), Y (width) and Z (depth) axes. Tool movement is directly determined by stepper motors or servo motors to provide highly accurate movements. The control system of these devices is open loop or closed loop. In the open loop system, communication is established only in the direction of the controller to the motor. While in the closed loop system, feedback from the system outputs (position, speed, etc.) is given to the controller so that it can correct the errors. These errors may be caused by changes in load, temperature, device calibration or system errors. Stepper motors can be used in both types of systems while servo motors are only used in closed loop systems.
What is ⚫️G-Code
G-code is the language used to control CNC machine tools. Using this programming language, the operator gives the device the necessary commands to create the desired design. For example, by receiving the command G1 X100 Y100, the tool will move on a straight line to the coordinates (100,100). This movement is performed with high precision without the need for measurements by the operator. For this reason, CNC machines greatly increase the speed and accuracy of machining.
Some applications of CNC devices
⚫️ Making components of 3D models
Making wax models used in jewelry making
Making small wooden decorative pieces
⚫️ Cutting wood to make wooden products
⚫️ Cutting signs to make a board
⚫️ Text engraving on metals
⚫️ 3D engraving on wood
⚫️Making a replica
⚫️ Making non-metallic molds
PCB drilling
⚫️ Making all kinds of wooden products
⚫️ Making a product prototype before making plastic injection molds using CNC and SLA
Carving on wood
⚫️Cutting of unolith
Foam cutting
⚫️ Cutting the sponge
⚫️ Cloud cutting