CNC machining is a versatile and precise method of creating custom parts and products from various materials. However, to get the best results, you need to use the right tools and accessories for your project. In this article, we will explore some of the most useful CNC machining tools and accessories that can help you improve your efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
Cutting tools are the essential components of any CNC machine, as they are responsible for shaping and removing material from the workpiece. Depending on the type of material, geometry, and finish you want to achieve, you need to choose the appropriate cutting tool for your CNC machine. Some of the most common cutting tools are end mills, drills, taps, reamers, and routers. Each of these tools has different features, such as diameter, length, number of flutes, material, coating, and angle, that affect their performance and suitability for different applications.
Different material in tool compositions also need to be taken into consideration. Some of these include carbide, high speed steel, diamond, and more.
The selection of tools and accessories depends on the specific machining requirements and the materials being processed. The specific needs of a CNC machining operation will dictate the most appropriate tools and accessories for the job. Regularly used tools and accessories are software tools, cutting tools like End Mills, Drill Bits, Taps and Dies; Tool holders and collets, work holding devices like clamps; Automatic tool changers, rotary tables and indexers, coolant systems, etc.
I still institute LLF: Look Listen Feel. Look at what the work piece and verify the results yielded are the results needed. Listen to the the cutter and the machine, they will give you insight as to how they are performing. Feel the machine to see if it is vibrating outside of normal operations. These are standards that were passed on to me by my dad years ago. I applied them to my skill set to become a Journeyman Toolmaker and I have passed the LLF rule on to others I have taught.
Workholding devices are used to secure and position the workpiece on the CNC machine table, ensuring stability and accuracy during the machining process. Without proper workholding, the workpiece can move or vibrate, causing errors, defects, or damage to the cutting tool or the machine. Some of the most useful workholding devices are vises, clamps, chucks, collets, fixtures, and vacuum tables. Each of these devices has different advantages and disadvantages, depending on the size, shape, and material of the workpiece, as well as the machining operation and orientation.
Measuring tools are used to verify and adjust the dimensions, alignment, and quality of the workpiece and the cutting tool before, during, and after the machining process. Measuring tools can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure compliance with specifications, and improve your productivity and efficiency. Some of the most useful measuring tools are calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, gauges, probes, and CMMs. Each of these tools has different levels of precision, resolution, and functionality, depending on the type and complexity of the measurement you need to perform.
Coolants and lubricants are used to reduce the heat and friction generated by the cutting tool and the workpiece during the machining process. Coolants and lubricants can help you extend the life and performance of your cutting tool, prevent overheating and warping of the workpiece, improve the surface finish and quality of the product, and remove chips and debris from the cutting zone. Some of the most common coolants and lubricants are water-based fluids, oil-based fluids, synthetic fluids, and compressed air. Each of these fluids has different properties, such as viscosity, conductivity, corrosion resistance, and environmental impact, that affect their suitability for different materials and applications.
Yes heat and friction is a machinists worst nightmare it will either make your tool blunt or your part distorted or warped even if you have the most expensive coolant so we have to be analytic or creative in positioning the nozzles specially in CNC lathes, because sometimes it gets tangled with the chips and breaks loose if this happens you need to index or change your insert (probably its already worn out) and reposition your nozzle so it will guide the chips away from the rotation of your part and spindle. you might also need to consider your turret rotation so those extended nozzles will not hit the machine covers during tool change. Works for me every time.
Safety equipment is used to protect yourself and your CNC machine from potential hazards and injuries during the machining process. Safety equipment can help you prevent accidents, comply with regulations, and maintain a healthy and comfortable working environment. Some of the most essential safety equipment are goggles, gloves, ear plugs, masks, aprons, fire extinguishers, and emergency stop buttons. Each of these equipment has different functions, such as shielding your eyes from flying chips and sparks, protecting your hands from cuts and burns, reducing noise exposure, filtering dust and fumes, covering your clothes from stains and spills, putting out fires, and stopping the machine in case of emergency.
Software tools are used to design, program, simulate, and control your CNC machine and your machining process. Software tools can help you create and edit your CAD models, generate and optimize your CAM codes, test and verify your machining operations, and monitor and adjust your machine settings. Some of the most popular software tools are Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Mastercam, Mach3, LinuxCNC, and GRBL. Each of these software tools has different features, such as compatibility, functionality, user interface, cost, and support, that affect their ease of use and effectiveness for different CNC machines and projects.
Look to a multi spindle 5axis machine, with automated loading. It doesn’t matter the application big or small… SW Machines can suit it all. Offering turnkey solutions as well as automation to put the cherry on top.
In CNC Machining centers probing systems are great add on accessory. Another accessory to consider, especially in shops where lots of setups and changeovers are required, would be modular/quick change fixture tooling.