How to ensure the accuracy of CNC machined parts?

CNC technology plays a significant role in the modern manufacturing industry, and optimizing the CNC machining process is the key to ensuring the accuracy of the machined parts. Therefore, CNC machining factories must formulate reasonable parts processing routes, optimize tool path planning, adjust CNC system parameters, and simplify the assembly process to effectively ensure the accuracy of the machined parts. At the same time, we must also pay attention to the challenges faced by CNC machining technology and continue to innovate and optimize to cope with them. In modern manufacturing, CNC technology has become the core force in the production of complex parts with its high precision, high efficiency and strong flexibility. However, how to further optimize the CNC machining process to achieve higher production efficiency and part quality and precision, and to achieve higher precision and higher efficiency of machined parts, the Elimold CNC machining factory’s team of engineers and technical experts still needs to continue to explore.

Things to note when improving the precision of CNC precision parts machining

Precision has always been one of the concerns of Elimold’s customers. When we perform CNC precision parts machining, we will improve the precision in the following ways. If the customer’s consent or changes are required, our team will communicate with the customer in detail.

Improve system stiffness

• Efficient product design: minimize the number of joint surfaces; avoid the occurrence of low stiffness links; scientifically and rationally select the structure and cross-sectional shape of components and pivot parts.
• Improve the contact stiffness of the joint surface.
• Improve the quality of the surface between parts in CNC lathe prefabricated components.
• Preload CNC lathe prefabricated components.
• Improve the accuracy of the positioning measurement points of product workpieces and reduce their surface roughness values.
• Use scientific and rational milling and positioning methods when processing CNC precision parts.

Reduce the load and its changes

• Reasonably select the basic parameters and cutting performance of CNC tool graphics to reduce the cutting amount.
• Classify the blanks and try to make the blank production and processing volume uniform during adjustment.
• Reduce the thermal deformation of the CNC processing system.
• Reduce the fever of pyrogens and protect pyrogens.

Choose a relatively small cutting performance

• When the precision requirements of parts are high, separate the rough and deep processing production process.
• Try to extract the heat source from the CNC lathe to reduce the thermal deformation of the CNC lathe.
• For the heat source that cannot be extracted from the spindle bearing, screw nut pair, and fast-moving linear slide pair, improve its friction characteristics from various aspects such as structure and lubrication, reduce heat generation or use thermal insulation materials.

When machining CNC precision parts, use heat dissipation prevention measures such as forced air cooling and water cooling.

• Balance the temperature gradient.
• Use scientific and reasonable CNC lathe prefabricated component structure and installation specifications.

Measures to improve the precision technology level of CNC machining parts

Focus on upgrading the mechanical CNC software and hardware system

Elimold is very clear that among the many factors that affect CNC processing technology, the mechanical CNC software and hardware system has the greatest impact on mechanical CNC processing technology and processing accuracy. Therefore, in order to improve the overall level of CNC mechanical CNC processing technology, the first concern is to upgrade the mechanical CNC software and hardware system. In actual operation, we mainly solve the system problems of CNC processing equipment from the following two aspects.
On the one hand, we focus on improving the optimization and research of computer numerical control programs by engineers and machinists. And we can design computer programs for parts processing that meet the needs of our current customer groups based on the current demand for parts processing and production undertaken by Elimold. After completing the program design, our engineering team will try out the program. By recording, evaluating and analyzing the results of the program trial, we can optimize the problems in the program and avoid affecting the quality of CNC processing in the program application.
On the other hand, after upgrading the software system, Elimold will upgrade the corresponding hardware system of our CNC machining factory, eliminate the use of some aging and obsolete equipment, and eliminate those that cannot support the normal operation of the corresponding software system. In addition, we strengthen the training of technical personnel and require them to pay attention to the upgrade of CNC software and hardware systems. Once common processing problems occur in the equipment, they must be reported to the management in a timely manner so that software or hardware engineers can understand the operating status of the mechanical CNC equipment and install and optimize the new system in a timely manner.

Pay attention to the improvement of the skills and capabilities of the corresponding personnel

Although CNC processing can achieve automated processing, it is inseparable from the operation, maintenance and repair of the corresponding personnel. Therefore, in order to better assist mechanical CNC processing equipment to operate under normal conditions and achieve high-quality processing, Elimold attaches great importance to the improvement of the skills and capabilities of the corresponding personnel. In actual operation, on the one hand, we hold training sessions and training courses to improve the skills of equipment operators, and on the other hand, we will also focus on improving the capabilities of maintenance and management personnel. For the improvement of operator skills, we must start from the source. We will arrange technical personnel to teach and arrange targeted practical teaching separately.

In addition, we also adopt the school-enterprise cooperation mode. By building a cooperative relationship with specific vocational schools, professional colleges can regularly provide high-quality talents for enterprises, and improve the theoretical level of the team through targeted practice. At the same time, we also conduct regular training for technical operators. Let the operators understand the problems that are prone to failures in the operation of different mechanical CNC equipment and the measures to avoid failures.

In addition, Elimold also has arrangements for improving the capabilities of repair and maintenance personnel. We mainly design equipment maintenance systems and maintenance requirements based on the conditions and equipment usage of different mechanical CNC equipment by hiring repair and maintenance personnel with professional technical capabilities. At the same time, we also carry out targeted training content for existing mechanical CNC equipment maintenance and repair personnel. We believe that only by combining theory and practice can we effectively improve the comprehensive level and professional skills of the corresponding personnel, which plays an important role in extending the service life of mechanical CNC equipment and improving the processing technology level.

Focus on the research of CNC processing technology and processing methods

In order to better improve the CNC processing technology level of the Elimold team, we not only focus on the upgrade of mechanical CNC software and hardware systems and the improvement of the corresponding personnel’s capabilities, but also pay more attention to the research of CNC technology and processing methods. Under the current social and technological innovation and development, there are relatively few researchers engaged in mechanical CNC. In view of this situation, on the one hand, we train more talents through training, and also stimulate the team to study related technologies through incentives. For example, as long as the engineers and operators of the team have certain results in CNC machinery and technology research, they can enjoy more benefits provided by the company, so as to increase the number of talents in the field of mechanical CNC technology of the company. On the other hand, we also organize a team of corresponding technical personnel to understand the development status and characteristics of relevant mechanical CNC technology in the world through overseas inspections, and learn some advanced mechanical CNC equipment software and hardware system design points and precautions with the help of technical cooperation opportunities. This plays an important auxiliary role in promoting the research and development level of mechanical CNC technology of the Elimold team. In addition, we also focus on integrating some new technologies with mechanical CNC technology, such as optimizing Internet technology and automation technology, and then fully combining it with mechanical CNC technology, and using intelligent processing equipment to achieve higher processing capabilities, which will promote our company to have a deeper and further development in the field of CNC processing. After completing the investigation of relevant technologies and machinery, we are also collecting relevant technologies and using relevant information to improve the existing mechanical CNC system and enhance the mechanical performance of mechanical CNC equipment.

Problems that need to be paid attention to in CNC machining factories to improve part processing accuracy

• Machine calibration and maintenance: Positioning accuracy is critical to achieving high-quality output from CNC machines. Operators should regularly verify the accuracy of the positioning system and promptly resolve any discrepancies by recalibrating or replacing components. In addition, it is equally important to keep the CNC machine clean and free of debris.
• Tools and cutting parameters: Select cutting tools and tool holders suitable for precision work. Optimize cutting parameters such as cutting speed, feed rate and cutting depth to match the material and part geometry.
• Material selection and preparation: Use high-quality materials that meet the required specifications. Properly prepare materials, such as preheating or cooling, to minimize material deformation during machining.
• Optimize CNC programming: Use CAD/CAM software to create CNC programs and ensure they are optimized for accuracy and efficiency. Consider tool paths, cutting parameters, and tool changes to minimize unnecessary movements and potential errors.
• Simulation and verification: Before running CNC programs on the machine, verify them with simulation software. This helps detect any collisions, tool path issues or potential errors early in the process.
• Tool Length Compensation: Implement tool length compensation in the CNC program to account for tool length variations, ensuring accurate tool positioning and cutting depth.
• In-Process Probing and Inspection: Utilize in-process probing systems and inspection techniques to measure critical dimensions during machining and make real-time verifications and adjustments as needed.
• Workholding and Alignment: Use reliable fixtures and workholding devices to securely hold the workpiece in place, ensuring proper alignment to prevent unwanted vibrations and ensure consistent accuracy.
• Optimize Cutting Parameters: Fine-tune cutting parameters such as cutting speed, feed rate, and cutting depth based on material properties and part geometry. This optimization helps balance material removal rate with surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
• Coolant and Lubrication Management: Maintain proper coolant and lubrication during machining to reduce heat and tool wear, which can affect accuracy.
• Environmental Control: Manage the machining environment, including temperature and humidity, to avoid any dimensional changes in the workpiece due to thermal expansion or contraction.
• Operator Training and Skill Development: Provide comprehensive training to CNC operators to ensure they are proficient in machining processes, programming, and inspection techniques. Competent operators are able to identify problems and implement corrective actions in a timely manner.
• Quality Control and Feedback Loops: Establish a strong quality control process using precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and CMMs. Regularly inspect machined parts against design specifications and collect feedback to continually improve the process.
• Continuous Improvement and Documentation: Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by analyzing any deviations and determining the root cause. Document best practices and lessons learned to ensure consistency in future machining operations. After revisions, foster a culture of continuous improvement by thoroughly analyzing any deviations and determining the root cause. Document exemplary methods and valuable insights to ensure consistency in upcoming machining operations.

Summary

In the CNC machining process, the instability of machining accuracy is a complex problem, involving mechanical equipment, tool management, machining parameters, fixture design, operator technical level and environmental factors. By taking appropriate solutions to these reasons, the accuracy of CNC machining can be effectively improved, thereby improving product quality and production efficiency. In future production practices, continuous attention and improvement of these factors will provide a solid guarantee for the long-term development of the enterprise. If you want to process high-precision metal or plastic parts, you can contact Elimold to serve you.