Precision and quality in manufacturing are what make any firm gain more reputation in the market. Thus, it is obvious that most manufacturing units make use of advanced technologies such as CNC machining today. The technology is compatible with a wide range of materials, including plastic, composite, and many others. Manufacturing huge bulk without compromising precision and quality is one of the prime qualities of the CNC machining technology. This is one of the prime reasons why many manufacturing units use this technology for their process.
Even though manufacturing units get CNC for precise results, it requires certain human intervention for proper results in processes. Thus, understanding the CNC design best practices becomes essential.
Fundamental Rules for CNC Machining Design
Larger diameters and smaller cavities are one of the best options to make the task less difficult. Also, in this manner, you will not require any specialist tool. Also, the principal direction of the machine, along with the number of axes, is to be checked to make the process less complicated. For text design, a size of 20 or above allows making reduced errors.
Design Restrictions
Though CNC machining is versatile, it faces some restrictions. Two major restrictions that can come as a roadblock are tool geometry and tool access. One of the common problems is that CNC machining may not produce several geometrical shapes. In most cases, the CNC machine applies cutting from the top of the material. So, it gets difficult for a piece in which a proper width-to-depth ratio has to be maintained. Making the product align with the machine’s fundamental direction can help. Of course, using innovative methods such as the five-axis technique can bring drastic change.
Design Guidelines
There are no such fixed guidelines as the CNC machine is continuously evolving. However, there are a few guidelines to check for an easy-to-go design.
- Adjusting the internal radii helps in cutting along different paths as per the requirements. However, in the case of a 90-degree ankle, it is best to utilize a T-bone undercut in place of adjusting the corner radius.
- It is best to drill with standard metric-sized options for holes in the product. Boring equipment or reamers can also be used to create absolutely precise diameters.
- In place of staying strict with the thread size of M2, using options like M6 offers a much better result in the end.
- A higher ratio between the depth and width of the product ensures reduced vibration and lower tool deflection. A variable cavity depth can also be used in case the machine requires larger depths.
- Laser marking or electrochemical etching are some of the best technologies for entering text in the case of marking.
Best Practices for Designing with CNC Machining
There is no special rule or guideline based on which the technology has to be used to deliver results. However, experts have come up with some practices that can help in enhancing the existing quality and results. These practices not only deliver quality but also ensure reduced resources.
Wish to get to know different practices that can be used? Have a look here:
CNC Milling:
It is the process in which the actual construction material is removed from the raw material.
- Options like the advanced tool end-mill cutter work great in designing within a short span.
- Sharp internal corners must be avoided.
- Deeper slots can cause deflection and vibration, so it is better to avoid them.
- An internal radius that is higher helps in utilizing the design to reduce machine time and cost.
CNC Turning
Shaping up the product is what happens in this process.
- Again, sharp external and internal corners must be avoided so that the machine does not run up a larger surface.
- Thin and long parts should be avoided, which otherwise would chatter with the material.
- Thin walls can cause tension on the component, and should be taken care of.
- The product to be designed should face the axis symmetrically.
Drilling
Drilling is the process by which holes are created in the product according to requirements.
- If a deeper hole is required, it is better to drill from both sides accordingly.
- Imperfect holes can cause complications in many cases.
- The drill axis must stand at an angle of 90 degrees on the surface.
- A hole going through the cavity can cause trouble. However, in certain cases, intersection with the cavity can be allowed.
Conclusion
Reliability is one thing that can be attained with the help of a CNC machining technology with ease. That does not mean human intervention is not required in the process. Experts mention certain tips and practices that can be used with the technology to deliver even better results. Even these practices can help reduce consumption of certain resources, such as time.
