Computer numerical control: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 06:54, 1 June 2024

Revision as of 08:49, 1 June 2024

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In [[machining]], '''numerical control''', also called '''computer numerical control''' ('''CNC'''),<ref>{{Cite web|title=What Is A CNC Machine? {{!}} CNC Machines|url=https://cncmachines.com/what-is-a-cnc-machine|access-date=2022-02-04|website=cncmachines.com}}</ref> is the [[automation|automated control]] of tools by means of a [[computer]]. It is used to operate tools such as [[drill]]s, [[lathe]]s, [[Milling (machining)|mills]], [[Grinding machine|grinders]], [[CNC router|routers]] and [[3D printer]]s. CNC transforms a piece of material ([[metal]], [[plastic]], wood, ceramic, stone, or composite) into a specified shape by following coded programmed instructions and without a manual operator directly controlling the machining operation.

A CNC machine is a motorized maneuverable tool and often a motorized maneuverable platform, which are both controlled by a computer, according to specific input instructions. Instructions are delivered to a CNC machine<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-18 |title=CNC Laser Metal Cutting Machine {{!}} Metal Laser Cutter |url=https://dwcnclaser.com/metal-laser-cutter/ |access-date=2024-06-01 |website=https://dwcnclaser.com/ |language=en-US}}</ref> in the form of a sequential program of machine control instructions such as [[G-code]] and M-code, and then executed. The program can be written by a person or, far more often, generated by graphical [[computer-aided design]] (CAD) or [[computer-aided manufacturing]] (CAM) software. In the case of 3D printers, the part to be printed is "sliced" before the instructions (or the program) are generated. 3D printers also use G-Code.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=3ERP |date=2022-06-24 |title=What is CNC Milling and How Does it Work: Everything You Need to Know - 3ERP |url=https://www.3erp.com/blog/cnc-milling-everything-you-need-to-know/ |access-date=2022-06-30 |website=Rapid Prototyping & Low Volume Production |language=en-US}}</ref>

CNC offers greatly increased productivity over non-computerized machining for repetitive production, where the machine must be manually controlled (e.g. using devices such as hand wheels or levers) or mechanically controlled by pre-fabricated pattern guides (see [[Pantograph#Milling machines|pantograph mill]]). However, these advantages come at significant cost in terms of both capital expenditure and job setup time. For some prototyping and small [[batch production|batch]] jobs, a good machine operator can have parts finished to a high standard whilst a CNC workflow is still in setup.