06 Aug Precision CNC Machined Parts: Some Common Applications
The CNC machining process utilises a wide array of processes to create intricate parts. These are shaped into the desired form by removing materials from a base shape. By using advanced technology and software programmes, these parts can be formed into virtually any shape or pattern and adhere to the finest of detail.
What are some of the common applications for precision CNC parts?
CNC machined elements are found in virtually every industry – from energy to medical, automotive to transportation. In addition, and thanks to the ease and relatively low cost of CNC part production, the technology is a game changer when it comes to modelling and testing physical prototypes.
Examples of some of the widely used applications include:
- The energy industry: As the push for alternative energy increases, so too does the need for intricate CNC machined components. Wind turbines, solar panels, hydropower generators etc utilise the repeatable, accurate and cost-effective technology of the process to produce a virtually infinite number of cutting-edge parts and components.
- Building and construction: Precision CNC machining has revolutionised the expensive, laborious process of hand-shaping the common parts used by tradies. Examples include components for HVAC systems, plumbing, pipework, electrical components and more.
- The aerospace industry: Aircraft and, increasingly, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) benefit from the incredibly high level of accuracy that CNC machining brings. With safety always needing to be the highest priority, the guarantee of precision and repeatability plays a huge role in ensuring this. The process is used for small and large elements, from valves and pump parts to bushings, manifolds and landing gear.
- Within the medical field: This rapidly advancing industry takes full advantage of CNC accuracy. Parts for diagnostic tools, treatment and patient implants are regularly created with the technology.
- The transportation industry: From vehicle components to prototypes for the vehicles of the future, the speed and relatively low cost of CNC machining help increase safety and drive down the price for the end user.
- Robotics: From robotic components already in regular use to the creation of intricate parts to push technology boundaries, this niche industry overlaps into virtually every manufacturing process. Examples include robotic arms used in vehicle production, the components that make up the ever-advancing technology of drones and crawlers, as well as the robotic parts used to power so many applications found in all areas of manufacturing.
Every CNC process is unique, utilising the exact methods necessary to create the required part. Many parts need to undergo multiple processes to achieve the end result. Some of the most common include laser, turning, milling, electrical discharge machines (EDM), drilling, sawing, grinding and broaching.
What are the advantages of CNC machining?
The process brings many advantages to part production, such as:
- High levels of accuracy: Precision is one of the greatest advantages of the technology. Careful programming and meticulous calibration ensure that parts are turned out with repeatable accuracy, with tolerances as small as 0.004 mm in the most complex of designs.
- Scalability: There’s no limit on the number of components that can be produced. If a small, trial run proves successful, increasing the volume can be done with no additional work involved.
- Complexity: Because the process utilises a wide range of machining processes, it can be used to create the most intricate of parts.
- Speed: As well as production timescales that are far quicker that manual processes, CNC machines can work 24/7.
- Can be used with a wide range of materials: Metals, plastics, composites, alloys, polymers and more.
- Reduced costs: Dramatically drives down the production cost. While the initial price might be a little more than other processes, when the high output, increased accuracy, ease of operation and other benefits are taken into consideration, the per-part cost is usually significantly lower.
- Enhanced safety: Operators have minimal interactions with the machine. Programming and maintenance are all that’s required, rather than being at the sharp end of potentially dangerous machinery.
SixDe is one of Australia’s foremost CNC machining providers. As well as providing the highest level of accurate components to industries across the country, our skilled design team supports a wide range of research and development projects.
Contact us today and let’s discuss the art of the possible…