19 Nov Comprehensive Guide to Innovations in Precision Engineering
TPrecision engineering is a niche manufacturing process that utilises advanced technology to create highly accurate parts and products. These range from very simple pieces to highly complex and are moulded into shape using a variety of processes.
The advantages of precision engineering include tight tolerances, repeatability, speed, low cost and the ability to work with multiple materials.
Different Types of Precision Engineering
There are many different types of this technology, including:
- CNC (computer numerical control) machining, which includes processes like milling, turning, drills, lathes and grinding.
- EDM (electrical discharge machining). You may also see this referred to as die sinking, spark eroding, spark machining or wire erosion.
- Laser micromachining.
- Laser cutting.
- Micro stamping.
Precision engineering can be used to fashion products from many types of materials. These include different types of plastics and various metals, such as aluminium, brass, copper, titanium and steel.
Thanks to this diversity, precision engineering is used to create parts for virtually every industry. From medical to aerospace, nuclear to automotive, the technology provides the vital manufacturing abilities to create affordable, accurate and repeatable products.
CNC machining is a staple of part production. Over recent years, technology has advanced to bring further processes to the table. These include Additive Manufacturing, Wire EDM (WEDM) and Calibration Blocks.
CNC Machining
This process has revolutionised the manufacturing process. As well as bringing accuracy, speed and versatility, it addresses many of today’s industry challenges, such as:
- Improved health and safety: Once the programme has been entered into the system, the whole process is automated. This reduces the risk of human error, workplace accidents and plays a major role in improving working conditions.
- More sustainable production: The machines require minimal energy to operate and produce less material waste.
- Faster, affordable prototyping: The ease of programming speeds up the creation of a prototype from a blueprint. The ease of doing so also allows for faster, more affordable design tweaks before a full production run takes place.
- Can run 24/7: As well as being quicker than humans, CNC machining can constantly produce parts without needing a break.
Learn more about the top 5 benefits of precision engineering, why it beats traditional machining and some of the common applications for precision CNC machined parts.
Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing – also known as 3D printing – is a more recent technology that, once again, is a true game changer. It can used to quickly and accurately produce complex items and components from a variety of materials, including resin, nylon and metals, such as aluminium, stainless steel and titanium.
The process is used to create one off parts, rapid prototypes and optimised moulding and tooling.
Find out more about how 3D printing brings projects to life and how metal 3D printing is fast-tracking innovation and design.
Calibration Blocks
There are many different types of calibration blocks, all of which are used to check and confirm the accuracy of precision equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy and quality of machines and testing processes.
Calibration blocks are used in multiple industries and scenarios. They fall under 12 key categories, including fish-tail, IIW type I & II and eddy current notch. They’re used in a variety of NDT methods, such as:
- UT (ultrasonic testing).
- ET (eddy current testing).
- PA (phased array).
- A-UT (advanced ultrasonic testing).
- TOFD (time of flight diffraction).
Calibration blocks can be produced in all sizes, from the very small up to 1,000kgs. Discover more about them in our Calibration Blocks 101 article.
Wire EDM (WEDM)
WEDM is a wire-cutting process that uses a taut wire and a spark to cut through conductive materials. It is an incredibly accurate process that provides clean cuts and minimal to no distortion of the surrounding material.
It’s often used over other precision engineering processes for creating parts with extremely delicate features, high complexity and when deep cuts are needed. It’s also a very stable technology, making it ideal to run without any human supervision.
The process is used in very particular situations. Find out more about the benefits of wire cutting.
What the Near Future will Bring
Such innovative technology is already well established within the precision engineering landscape – but this is only the tip of the iceberg. Much effort and funding are already bringing further technology into play. This includes the use of digital twins, where simulated computer models allow for design creation and testing to be carried out in the digital plane, virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, all of which are just some of the cutting-edge technologies that the Sixde design team are taking advantage of.
The move towards such trends is accelerating and is only predicted to move faster as they become further ingrained into processes.
Sixde leads the way in innovative Australian manufacturing processes, with a design team consisting of some of the most talented individuals in the field of precision engineering. Contact us today to find out more and explore how our advanced technological processes can benefit your business.