Precision CNC Machining Parts - Custom CNC Machining Service

Custom CNC Machining Service

Short for ‘Computer Numerical Control’, CNC is a manufacturing process whereby the movement of the factory’s tools and machinery are dictated by a pre-programmed computer software.

Precision CNC machining can be used to control a whole range of machinery within a company, including grinders, mills and routers. It is suitable for a wide range of material such as metals, wood, plastics as well as glass.

Our expert engineers are skilled at programming the CNC machines to accomplish complicated tasks such as removing layers from the workpiece and three-dimensional cutting to produce the custom designed products. Reach out to us to find out how our precision CNC machining manufacturers can meet your needs.

CNC Machining Process

The first step in CNC machining is designing the product parts with CAD software. The 3D drawing enables the dimensions and properties of the model to be determined.
Our CNC machines come with CAD-CAM packages so that the same programmes flow throughout. CAM refers to ‘Computer Aided Machinery’ software. If the CAD software used is different from the CAM software, the CAD files will have to be imported before the CAM software can prepare the model for the fabrication process.
The CAM software will check the model for errors and if the model is error-free, the CNC program to fabricate the product will be created.
The program created will guide and direct the movement of the machines during the actual manufacturing process.
Our skilled engineers and technicians understand that choosing the right parameters is of significance when it comes to manufacturing a high-quality product. The configuration of Voltage, cutting speed, and RPMs depend on the shape of the product as well as the machine and tools that are being used.
The software also determines how to place and orientate the parts in relation to the raw material used. This nesting process helps in maximizing material and reducing wastage.
All this information is then coded so that the machines can ‘read’ the directions and start producing the desired products with accuracy.
Our CNC machines are fully automated, needing only digital files that contain cutting and tooling instructions per your company specifications. At Eko Industries, our experienced team will ensure that your 3D model is without errors and the right parameters for your product are used so that the desired part is precisely manufactured.

Types of CNC Machines

There are 6 main types of CNC Machines:

CNC Mills – With milling machines, rotary cutters are used to shape the products as requested. CNC Mills are popular because they are able to cut according to the required depth, angles and direction.
CNC Lathes – Lathes are used to cut precise conical or spherical shaped parts. Lathes are able to produce complex designs with its turning centres in which the cutting tool is located. The cutting tool works to shave off unwanted material whilst the material rotates on a spindle.
CNC Routers – Built especially to be operated by CNC tech, CNC Routers are generally used to produce large dimension parts. It is usually used to cut sheet metal, wood and plastic.
CNC Plasma Cutters – CNC plasma cutters cut material with a plasma torch that is powered by compressed air, gas and electrical arcs. They are commonly used to cut metal.
CNC Grinders – This machine has a rotary wheel that repeatedly grinds the material into the wanted shape.
CNC Electric Discharge Machines (EDM) – EDM machines are utilized to manufacture products that need a particular shape inside the material. This is achieved through repeated electrical releases between two anodes. There are two types of electric discharge machines: Wire EDM and Sinker EDM.

Types of CNC Machining Support Software

CNC machines use software applications to ensure that end products are precise and accurate. These software applications also optimize designs, reduce flaws and reduce production costs. Software applications that are commonly used in CNC machining include:

CAD – Computer aided design software programs are employed to produce 2D vectors and 3D renderings. It can define optimal part properties, simulate products without an actual prototype as well as provide data needed by manufacturers
CAM – Computer aided manufacturing software work to extract technical information from the CAD model. It is also used to generate the machining program to run the CNC machine.
CAE – Computer aided engineering software during pre-processing, analysis and post-processing of product development.

CNC Machining Materials and Applications

Custom CNC cutting is suitable for parts made from various materials including different types of metals, wood, composites, plastics, foam and even fiberglass. As CNC machining is able to product most of the basic geometric shapes with high accuracy, it is a fabrication method that is popular in the following industries:

Custom CNC Machining Services at EKO INDUSTRIES

At EKO Industries, we carry multi-axis custom CNC milling and turning equipment. This has solidified our reputation as a CNC machining part manufacturer and service supplier for multi complexity parts that require a high degree of intricate manufacturing processes.

Current CNC Machine to support are as follows:

CNC MILLING (3 Axis & 4 Axis)

CNC TURNING

CNC Machining Works

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom CNC Machining

Is EKO Industries a CNC Machine Parts Company or Precision CNC Machining Company?

EKO Industries provides both CNC machine manufacturing and precision CNC machining for our client companies worldwide. We produce custom CNC parts that are built to your specifications. Our engineers also work closely with you to meet your needs and ensure that our software can produce accurate, reliable results for your products. Reach out to us to find out how EKO Industries sets itself apart from other CNC machine manufacturing companies.

What are the Advantages of CNC Plasma Cutting?

CNC plasma cutting is a type of CNC machine that cuts materials with a plasma torch powered by compressed air, gas, and electrical arcs. They are commonly compared to conventional plasma cutting torches used in industrial environments. The biggest advantage CNC plasma cutters have is that they have higher precision, speed, and accuracy compared to handheld plasma cutters. This makes them suitable for large-scale manufacturing such as in the industrial construction, automotive repair and restoration, salvage, and scraping industries. Find out more about CNC plasma cutting in our blog.

What are the Advantages of CNC Laser Cutting?

Laser cutting is a commonly used technique in metal fabrication processes. CNC laser cutters employ computer-controlled and directed fabrication processes that use high-powered lasers to cut the metal into desired designs and shapes. This process can also be used for materials including wood, plastic, gemstones, paper, and glass. As the CNC machine is guided by sophisticated CNC software, it can achieve accurate and intricate cuts without additional machinery or manual input. This leads to high versatility and productivity that can help you stay ahead of the competition. Our blog post dives deeper into what sets CNC laser cutting apart from traditional laser cutting methods.

What is a CNC Machine?

In today’s world of industrial automation, it is inevitable to meet the stringent demand for quality to produce consistent products with competitive prices.

One of the most remarkable and influential steps in the industrial automation sector was the development of CNC machines (Computer Numerical Control).

Until the 1980’s CNC machinery was used only in the areas which required a high level of precision, but now, the advancement in technology has allowed the use of this machinery in all industrial and production areas.

Using advanced software programs for design, coupled with the high precision of CNC machinery brings out a drastic reduction in production cost with superior quality products.

What is a CNC machine?

CNC stands for computer numerical control, which is a manufacturing process in which a programmed computer software directs the movement of factory tools and machinery.

The CNC process can automate a range of manufacturing techniques such as water jet cutting, milling, laser cutting materials etc. The process can control a range of complex industrial machineries such as mills, lathes, grinders, and routers.

By definition, the CNC machine stands for a programmable machine that is capable of automatically performing the functions of CNC machining.

The machine is fully equipped for three-dimensional cutting tasks as per the instructions that are fed through a CAD file.

CNC manufacturing is a subtractive manufacturing process in which layers of materials are removed from the blank or workpiece.

The subtractive process is the method by which layers of materials are removed from the workpiece to produce shapes and designs. On the other hand, the additive process is a formative process in which layers of materials are assembled up to produce the desired shape.

This process is apt for a wide range of materials such as wood, foam, plastic, glass, composites and even metals. The CNC process enables the production of products with extremely high precision and accuracy from simple parts.

Types of CNC machines

Several different types of CNC machines are available, each having its own unique function.

1. CNC Milling machine

These are one of the most common types of CNC machines. CNC milling machine has built-in tools for cutting and drilling.

The CNC milling machines are available in three- to six-axis configurations.

The material to be drilled will be placed inside the machine, and the built-in computer will guide the tools precisely as per the instructions in the program to perform a drill or cut.

2. CNC plasma cutting machine

The plasma cutting machine is used to cut the materials similar to that of a CNC Milling machine. The main difference here is that a plasma torch is used.

A high powered plasma torch is generated, which can cut through even the rigid materials such as metals. The temperature of the plasma torch can go as high up to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. CNC Lathe Machine

These machines can rotate materials while it is in operation. When compared to the CNC milling machine, the lathe machines have lesser number of axis, making it more compact.

These machines have a lathe in the centre which helps to move the material as per the desired way.

4. CNC Electric Discharge Machine

Quite popularly known as the spark CNC machine, this device uses electric sparks to change the materials to reach the desired shape.

One unique feature of electric discharge is that it can cause an erosive effect. This means that it can deform the materials and manipulate them to reach the desired shape.

By producing controlled sparks inside the CNC electric discharge Machine, the desired shape can be obtained.

The material will be placed between the top and bottom electrode, after which the computer will generate precisely the required amount of electric spark required for the operation.

5. CNC Laser-Cutting Machine

This CNC laser cutting machine is somewhat similar to that of a CNC plasma cutting machine. The main difference here is that instead of plasma, a high beam of the laser is used to perform the cutting.

The main advantage of using a laser is that you can achieve a high level of accuracy, which is not possible in the case of CNC plasma machines.

The three different types of lasers commonly used are CO2, neodymium (Nd) or yttrium-aluminium-garnet (YAG).laser.

6. CNC water jet cutters

The CNC water jet cutter uses high-pressure water to cut various metals.

For cutting softer materials such as wood or rubber water alone can be used, and for cutting hard materials, water is mixed with an abrasive substance such as an aluminium oxide or garnet.

The water pressure is usually between 20,000 to 55,000 PSI. Water is induced into the CNC jet unit using a high-pressure pump and a filter. Here jewel nozzle is selected for corrosion resistance.

Types of CNC manufacturing processes

The great thing about the CNC manufacturing process is that it can be used for a wide variety of industries such as aeroplane engines, aerospace, construction, automotive and even in agriculture.

This technique has the potential to produce a range of products such as simple garden tools to highly complex aerospace equipment.

The CNC manufacturing process is a unique blend of controlled machining operations such as thermal, electrical and mechanical processes.

Let us examine some of the most common mechanical CNC machining operations.

1. Turning

This is one of the simplest processes for removing large amounts of materials in one go. Turning involves clamping a workpiece firmly on to a rotating plate or mandrel.

While the workpiece spins, a cutting tool will be firmly held against it on a moving slide or in a fixture.

By moving the slide up and down, it is possible to remove a large amount of materials quickly and effectively.

The process of turning can produce smooth and uniform surface finishes.

Precise holes can be drilled down the centreline of the workpiece with a drill bit mounted on the tailstock.

2. Milling

Milling is used to make squares/flat faces, notches, chamfers, channels, profiles, keyways and other features that require precisely cut angles.

The majority of CNC operations are done by milling and turning.

The fundamental difference between turning and milling is that unlike the former here the workpiece is held stationary and the cutting tool will rotate on a spindle.

The spindle holds a variety of cutting tools and can move in the X, Y and Z-axis. The workpiece will usually be mounted on a table which can move in the X, Y and Z-axis.

Milling excels at removing stock from highly complex and asymmetrical parts. A cooling fluid is used to cool down the workpiece, lubrication and to flush away the metal parts.

3. Grinding

For many applications, it is necessary to have a smooth and flat surface on the metal piece. Grinding is a method which is best suited for creating a flat surface on the metal piece.

The workpiece is mounted on a table and moved back and forth laterally beneath the spinning disk to which an abrasive grit of a specific coarseness is attached.

The abrasive chosen will be depending on the type of material that needs to be lubricated.

Sometimes a different approach is taken where the abrasive disk is held firm, and the workpiece is moved back and forth.

The whole process of grinding will create a large amount of heat due to friction which needs to be regulated by carefully controlling the number of spins and temperature.

4. Optical Grinding

This technique is used for making optics in glass or plastic. As we all know, optics require a very fine surface with extremely close tolerance.

For this specialised grinding equipment is used that spins a grinding wheel against a surface while rotating in multiple axes. The grinding equipment is specially designed to minimise deviating from the normal, which is a common occurrence while grinding glass.

Grinding paste is also used as a lubricant to create a polished surface.

5. Wire EDM

This uses a copper wire as a conductor for high voltage electric charge. The new wire has to be constantly fed from the spool as the conductor will be steadily eroded during the process of cutting.

6. Solid sink EDM

In this method, an electric current is used to shape the material. The workpiece will be immersed in the dielectric fluid, and conductive electrodes will be placed close to it.

The electrodes don’t physically touch the workpiece but need to be replaced constantly.

As the electrode discharges, the metal will be forced off the workpiece to create the desired shape.

EDM is used for making textured surfaces or logos and lettering. It is also used for plastic injection and pressure die casting.

How does a CNC machine work?

The CNC manufacturing process involves computerised controls to fully automate and operate the CNC cutting tools to make sure that exact details of the dimensions fed into the software program are carved out from the workpiece.

In a typical CNC manufacturing process, the fundamental principles remain the same. This includes the following stages:

Designing the CAD model
Converting the CAD file to a CNC program
Preparing the CNC machine
Executing the work

1. CAD model design

The machining process starts with designing the parts in CAD software. The designers can build digital tool libraries that interface with the actual tools. Unlike the previous CNC machines, modern equipment is fully automated. The digital files having instructions about the tools and cutting trajectories can be fed into tho the machine.

The machine is capable of mimicking the effect of several different tools at the same time.

The 3D model created from the CAD software will determine the properties and necessary dimensions for the final part.

2. Converting the CAD file

Once the CAD design has been finalised, it is run through a CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software to extract the geometrical features and convert them into digital programming code.

The programming code will later control the CNC machine tools to carve out the exact dimensions as per the program.

Several programming languages are used for the CNC machine. This includes M-code and G-code.

G-code(Geometric code)- Controls how and where the machine tools move.For example: how fast to travel to a particular location, when to turn on and off etc.
M-code( Miscellaneous function code)- Contains auxiliary functions of the machine. For example: automating the removal and replacement of the machine cover at the start and end of production, use of coolant, tool change etc.

Once the CNC program is generated, it is loaded into the CNC machine.

3. Preparing the machine

Before the technician runs the CNC program, it is necessary to prepare the CNC machine for the desired operation.

This includes:

Attaching the toolings to the machine components such as end mills, toolings etc.
Affixing the workpiece directly into the holding devices in the machine.

4. Operating the machine

The technician will run the CNC program once the machine is fully set up. The program will dictate the commands to the integrated computer within the machine. All tooling actions will and movements of the machinery will be done precisely as per the instructions in the program.

Once the operation is started, the program will continually guide the tools to perform all the operations, as mentioned in the program.

What engineering materials are suitable for CNC machining?

The CNC machines can handle a variety of engineering materials such as

Metals
Wood
Composites
Plastic

The material selection for the CNC manufacturing process varies greatly on the applications and specifications required.

The physical properties of the workpiece material are first analysed to determine the optimal cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut.

The cutting is performed in two different phases. In which during the first phase the material is cut to custom-designed dimensions. The second phase is the finishing phase in which the material is polished to the exact dimensions with a lower cut-rate.

The CNC machine can handle almost all types of materials, provided it has enough tensile strength, sufficient hardness, chemical and temperature resistance.

Bottom Line

CNC machining is a great boon for today’s manufacturing sector. The components of several devices that we use on a day to day basis are manufactured through this process.

This includes computer parts, automobile equipment and even aerospace components.

In this article, we have covered some of the basics of the CNC machining process, various CNC machining operations, their required equipment, and the factors that have to be considered before deciding if CNC manufacturing process is the best choice.

As this technology continues to evolve, we will be able to produce equipment which is highly precise and complex with less cost.

Also read our follow up articles on: