Introduction to CNC Machines

The world of mechanical engineers revolves on machines and manufacturing processes. In daily activities of mechanical engineers, it is not quite easy to work on hands and tools alone regularly. The invention of Computer Numerical Control or CNC is a blessing to mankind especially to workers and technicians. Way back 1970’s, these machines are called Numerical Controls or NC, but later on changed into CNC when computers are widely available for use.

Industries where CNC is typically used

Today, CNC machines are widely used especially in fabrication industries where greater effort is necessary to produce finer steel and other metals. CNCs are now incorporated to machines such as lathe, milling, shapers and drilling machines. CNC machines are also used in metal-removing industries, electrical discharge industries, and wood working industries.

How a CNC works

CNC provides the operator a lesser task. However, a CNC operator should be able to know how to use this effectively to produce a quality work piece. Generally, a CNC is connected to a CAM or Computer Aided Manufacturing system and with a CAD or Computer Aided Design. These two systems will help the CNC improve whenever a change in the design or change in the process for the work piece is needed.

A CNC machine with computer control

Advantages of CNC machines

• CNC machines can be operated 24 hours a day. It only needs to be switched off for a minimal and occasional time. 
• One skilled and knowledgeable operator can operate more than one machine in a given time unlike having one operator for each machine. This would give a lesser cost for the company.
• Less effort and less skill is required for making any work piece with the CNC machines, unlike when working in a typical lathe machines and other manually operated equipments which requires a great training for the worker to perfect his operation.
• A single design of work piece can be made and multiplied with that same design with a very high accuracy.
• The software can help the designer make his design easily without the need of having a prototype. 

Disadvantages of CNC machines

• When a company decides to invest on CNC machines, they would lessen the numbers of their workers, thus will lead to unemployment.
• Most students that are taking up engineering or technical courses are not learning the manual operations of machines anymore. Most university is now teaching CNC operations only, thus pupils do not have the skill of operation lathe, milling, boring and other machines.