CNC (Computer Numerical Control) manufacturing refers to a production process using CNC technology. CNC machines are computer controlled and their cutting tools can shape materials automatically. These machines have automatic motion capabilities and cut, drill, turn or shape material according to a specific design or program. CNC manufacturing can work with metal, plastic, wood and other materials.
The CNC manufacturing process occurs as follows:
- Design: The 3D model of the product is created using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Programming: The design is converted into a program in a language the CNC machine can understand (usually called G-code). This program specifies the shaping operations of the material.
- Adjusting the CNC Machine: The material is placed in the CNC machine and the machine is moved to the correct position. Additionally, cutting tools are placed correctly.
- Production: The CNC machine cuts, drills, shapes or turns the material following programmed paths.
- Quality control: The quality of the manufactured parts is checked by measurements and tests. If there are any defects, they are corrected or the parts are remanufactured.
CNC manufacturing is widely used in industrial production and is preferred in the production of various parts in automotive, aerospace, medical, electronics, furniture and many other industries.