Computerised Numerical Control (CNC)
A computerised numerical control (CNC) is an electronic device using numeric control software in order to automate instructions to control the machine's tools. CNC uses information from CAD during the production process to create the desired finished parts.Computer Aided Design (CAD) or Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) softwares writes a program. This program then moves the motorized tool or platform, according to specific input instructions. These instructions are then sent to the CNC machine and automates the control of the machine tools. With these tools and the code programmed by CAD, CNC process a piece of material by cutting, forming, and carving.
CNC Advantages
- Able to precisely cut, form, and carve materials such as metals, wood, foam, composites, plastics and more
- Once code from CAD and CAM is generated for CNC use, no human intervention is needed
- Speed, efficiency, repeatability, reliability, and precision improves manufacturing greatly
- The machines can theoretically run all day and night
Because CNC is using computer programming, the speed, efficiency and accuracy of replication is greatly improved. Complex surfaces that used to be difficult to manufacture are now easy to manufacture.
CNC Codes
Computerised Numerical Control (CNC) uses two different code files: G-Code and M-Code Files.G-Code Files, also known as Geometry Code Files, are used to coordinate the machine's movements. This includes where to cut, or remove pieces, which tool to use, the speed at which a tool moves, the geometry of cuts, etc. given by the machine.
M-Code Files, or Miscellaneous Code Files, include orders from the machine such as when to stop different tools, when to change the direction of the spin of tools, and when to use coolant.
