Monday 7 July 2014

Factors To Consider When Buying CNC Parts

By Rosella Campbell


Like any other machine, a CNC system relies on its component parts in order to function effectively. Simply put, a CNC system is a machine that is computer controlled and designed for manufacturing. It uses programs and instructions to undertake a sequence of machining functions. When shopping for their ideal machinery, many people often consider the whole system alone. However, to be able to procure the most suited, effective and fault tolerant equipment, ensure to consider its component parts. Below are some important CNC parts that are worth considering.

The first component is the part program. A CNC part program is simply a collection of code instructions that is required to produce a part. It specifically controls the motion of the machine alongside regulating the on and off functions of the spindle and coolant auxiliary rotations. In order to achieve this, the part program entails codes of a mix of not only the letters but also some symbols and numbers.

There is also a program input device that helps in entering the part program in the CNC control. The input device comes in various types, including the magnetic tape reader, the punch tape reader and the computer and employs the RS-232-communication technique.

The machine control unit (MCU)is at its center. The control unit is used to perform numerous tasks. For instance, the unit is responsible for reading the coded instructions and decoding them. It also implements interpolations (helical, circular and linear) to produce axis motion commands and feeds the commands into the amplifier circuits that drive the axis mechanisms.

CNC motion is facilitated by a drive system that composes the drive motors, amplifiers transfers and ball lead screws. This section of the system is particularly responsible for the amplification of the regulatory signals such as the speed and position. The amplified signals are then transferred to the drive motors, causing them to rotate the lead screws and position the table.

The system also incorporates a variety of CNC controls. The controls are responsible for the regulation of speed and position. This is especially the role of the slide and spindle table. For the machine table, the regulation takes place on the Y and X axes while the same is done along the Z axis of the spindle.

Feedback is provided by a measuring system that forms an essential segment of the device. To be able to relay the feedback, this segment relies on the speed and position elements in monitoring the cutting tool at any given time and place. It relies on the gap between the feedback and reference signals to come up with a control signal for the regulation of errors in speed and position.

Nevertheless, before embarking on the daunting task of buying a system component, it is worth considering that the spare is not a stand- alone equipment. As such, consider the level of compatibility with the other components and software. A system relies on the configuration of the individual components for its performance. You must therefore ensure that each and every part is portable from one machine to another. In addition, consider the fixtures of the device by determining the height, width and length.




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