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Posted On: March 23, 2020
High precision and quality are crucial aspects to be achieved for any machine, product, part, or equipment in the manufacturing sector. So, in principle and execution, high precision and quality as factors should form the core of the process in every workshop and industrial unit. It should be just as important as speed and volume of production and the financial aspects. However, when it comes to high precision and ultra-precision there seems to be some confusion, as often we hear these terms being used interchangeably. However, there are subtle differences between the two. High precision means setting tight tolerances with differences of a couple of microns. Ultra-precision is required for specific applications, wherein no amount of error or difference can be tolerated. So, extremely tight tolerances need to be set for such machines, and are usually in a few sub-microns. This increases the complexity of the task, and in any case, such tolerances are not always required. This post talks about high precision and quality in machining processes and their significance.
High Precision in CNC Machining and the Factors Affecting It
CNC machining is employed to create parts out of metal or plastic. These parts have particular dimensions such as size, shape, length, and so on, which need to be consistent irrespective of the volume of parts to be manufactured. Most parts or products used in industries such as electronics, defense, healthcare, sports, and so on need to have high precision. CNC machines are automated to do the cutout task with the help of a computer program. If done manually, these tasks are mundane and repetitive, and leave room for human errors, which is why CNC machining is a better option. It is not possible for humans to hit the bull’s eye a hundred times; each time there may be some difference. Also, it enables to make extremely complex parts with equal or more precision. This helps produce accurate parts in high volumes, with the same precision. It is too ideal to achieve 100% accuracy. However, accurately-programmed CNC machines would take you closest to the level demanded, perhaps with a difference if 0.01mm without any other error.
CNC machining for high precision is crucial from a larger perspective because it helps better the final product quality and functioning. Aside from the accuracy, there are other parameters such as materials used, features incorporated, and so on, which make the product or part of a certain quality. Another important aspect is vibration because it produces variation. The object which is being machined may or may not have a certain level of vibration resistance, and this does affect precision and accuracy by a few microns. Therefore, a certain level or range of acceptable values or differences in tolerance is always defined. The acceptable value of tolerance would really depend upon the application.
The number of axes a machine has also decides the number of tasks performed at a time. This certainly increases the speed and volume without compromising on quality and precision.
Benefits of High Precision and CNC Machining
For decades, CNC machines have been used to for, drill, and cut various components and products. Now, with the help of software programs and advanced features such as multiple axes, they only offer better precision and quality. Here are some benefits of CNC machining for high precision:
- Low error rate:
Once the software program is executed and the machine is started, it functions on its own with limited or no human intervention. This reduces the error rate.
- High speed and increased volumes of production:
Multiple tasks can be carried out in one CNC machine, which increases the speed of production and helps meet high volume requirements. All this is done without compromising on accuracy.
- Prototyping and 3D printing:
CNC machining has enabled prototyping and 3D modeling of parts for future references.
- High precision and consistency:
The required precision is met through CNC machining, irrespective of the volume and repetitiveness. The same consistency is achieved for all the parts made in a batch, and in a stipulated timeframe.
- Less wastage of materials:
The wastage of materials is low when CNC machining is used to make parts rather than manual fabrication. This helps save on material costs for the product, although the material may be purchased in bulk.
Are you an OEM and looking for a fabrication and prototyping partner? Look for a reliable CNC machining service provider who offers the level of precision based on your requirements. The service provider should understand your requirements relating to the products or components. BDE Manufacturing Technologies offers all kinds of CNC machining services, and is totally focused on achieving the required quality through CNC machining and high precision.
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