What are the Challenges for CNC Machining Small Parts?
CNC machining is a manufacturing process that uses computers to control the movement of machines to create or modify parts. The technology has upgraded and is now used to manufacture small parts precisely and accurately.
While there are many benefits to using CNC machining for small pieces, some challenges need to be considered regarding machining, quality, and materials.
This blog post will discuss the challenges of CNC machining small parts faced by a machine shop and how they can be overcome.
Small CNC machined parts can challenge even the most experienced machinists. When machining small pieces, some of the main challenges are ensuring quality and avoiding burrs and other imperfections.
Difficult to control the tight tolerance
Firstly, the tight tolerance required for these parts means that any errors in the machining process can have a visionary impact on the final product.
Secondly, the small size of the pieces means that they are more challenging to handle and keep track of during machining in a machine shop.
Materials
These parts are often made from delicate materials such as metal and plastics, making them more susceptible to damage during the machining operation.
Difficult to Chamfer
As bar stock gets smaller in diameter, it becomes increasingly difficult to machine precision parts. This is true for parts that require a chamfer or beveled edge.
When CNC machining small amounts, the high degree of accuracy needed means that even the slightest misalignment can result in an imperfect chamfer.
To avoid this, material manufacturers must take extra care to ensure that their CNC machines are correctly aligned and that their workpieces are held securely in place. This can add significant time and expense.
Difficult to Debur
Small machined parts can be difficult to debur due to the high level of precision required. The machined part must meet tight tolerances to function correctly, and any burrs or other imperfections can cause problems.
In addition, the small size of the material parts makes it difficult to work with them without causing damage.
Therefore, it is essential to use high-quality tools and techniques with small part machining is essential.
Challenges to drilling deep holes
One of the challenges of CNC machining small parts in drilling deep holes. This can be difficult to produce high-quality parts compared to large parts because the drill bit tends to wander off course, making it difficult to get a precise hole.
Another challenge the machining industry faces is that the bit can "walk" across the material's surface, especially if the hole is close to the edge of the workpiece.
This can be prevented by using a centre drill to create a small divot on the material's surface, which will help keep the bit from wandering.
When drilling deep holes with a CNC machine, the potential for the bit to "breakthrough" the bottom of the hole before the full depth has been reached.
This can be prevented by using a peck drilling cycle, which will retract the bit slightly after each revolution to clear any chips that have been produced.
Slow Production speed
When machining small parts, a CNC machine is often not as fast as a lathe. CNC machines are designed for larger production runs and automotive/aerospace demand.
As a result, they are not as suited for prototyping or small-scale production. However, there are many ways to speed up the CNC machining of small parts.
Production speed also depends on CNC design, machine parts, technology, and the diameter of the job. The equipment capabilities and features also define the production speed of the CNC machined parts.
Holding the Job
Industries providing machining services face another challenge during the small part machining. Special jigs and fixtures are vital to holding the job during the machining operation.
Conclusion
CNC machining is a process that has revolutionized manufacturing and production. However, it is not without its challenges.
Customers who require CNC machining services for small parts often have specific expectations of accuracy, surface finish, and overall quality.
Machining small parts can be complex due to the size constraints and the need for precision. To get the most output out of your CNC machines, you need to know these challenges and work around them.
With careful planning and execution, you can overcome any obstacle in your way and produce tight tolerances and high-quality metal machined parts using a CNC machine.
CNC machining is still an excellent option for customers who need small pieces with tight tolerances. Despite these challenges, Thanks to the many different capabilities of CNC machines, industries across the board can take advantage of this technology.
Worthy Hardware is a qualified machining company in China offering small CNC parts manufacturing services. We feature high-quality parts for various sectors, including automotive and aerospace.
Feel free to contact us if you need any CNC machining-related services.
Worthy Hardware is a CNC manufacturing and sheet metal fabrication company,including CNC machining services,CNC milling services, CNC turning services, laser cutting services and stamping services.Call us +86-76989919645 or email us [email protected] for more discounts for your projects.