Before precision engineering, shaping of metal and plastics was difficult as it required constant human supervision. Because of this, errors, inaccurate measurements and inferior quality products were a common thing.
Now due to advancements in technology and upskilling of the workforce, mechanical parts can be manufactured precisely and according to specifications. It is CNC turned components that have made this possible.
HOW DOES CNC TURNING WORK?
CNC refers to computer numerical control. It works by securing the raw material and then running a single point cutting tool across its axis which shapes the material into the desired shape. The exact dimensions fed in through a CAD machine. Once the computer receives the information, it moves the lathe. In This way, the product is manufactured with utmost precision. Turning is preferred to milling and 3D printing since it makes manufacturing multiple components of the same part from one piece of raw material quicker.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CNC PARTS
CNC turned components manufacturers make CNC components out of steel, aluminum and brass. Let us take a closer look at each of them.
- METAL COMPONENTS
- STEEL TURNED COMPONENTS: CNC components made of steel are expensive but stronger than their aluminum counterparts. Steel CNC components are mostly used in the aerospace and automotive industries.
- ALUMINUM TURNED COMPONENTS: Aluminum turned components are strong, lightweight and corrosion resistant. That is why they are preferred for use in hi-tech applications.
- CARBON STEEL COMPONENTS: Carbon steel components are basically steel components with 2-3% carbon and come in 3 categories-low, medium and high. Higher the percentage of carbon, the more the hardness and strength. Although these components are easy to use, higher carbon percentage can make it difficult to control. Steel components need to be exposed to heat after usage to prevent corrosion and weathering.
- COPPER ALLOY CNC COMPONENTS: CNC turning parts can also be made out of copper. When using copper components, it is important to consider your speed as they tend to generate more heat than components made of other materials.
WHICH PARTS ARE MADE BY CNC TURNING?
CNC turned components can be used to make different types of products like:
- ROLLERS: CNC lathes can be used to manufacture high tolerance rollers for industrial use
- BALL JOINTS: CNC turning components are ideal for manufacturing ball joints
- NUTS AND BOLTS: Because CNC components are accurate and precise, they can be used for making nuts and bolts
- SHAFTS: CNC components can also be used for making shafts
- FLANGES: A variety of flanges can be manufactured using CNC components
- NOZZLES: Nozzles are hollow or cylindrical in shape and can easily be made using a CNC machine.
- FIREARMS: By using a CNC machine, you can easily manufacture tubular parts which are used in gun barrels
- TURBINES: CNC turning machines can easily manufacture round turbine blades used in the energy industry.
