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Metal Cutting CNC Machine Tools Features(2)
The design and manufacture of machine tools and manufacturing systems should not only be adapted to the current production needs and developments of machine tools, but also be produced in an efficient and reliable manner. Metal cutting machine tools have advanced substantially in the past few decades due to the development of high-speed machining, the utilization of high-precision systems and the availability of high-precision machine tools.
Modern metal cutting CNC machine tools typically consist of three major components: a structural frame, a machining axis, and a direct drive control unit. The structural frame is made from cast iron or steel and provides a rigid, vibration resistant foundation for the machining axis and the associated direct drive control unit. The Rigid Tapping unit, for example, is designed to minimize the amount of vibration transmitted to the machining axes and the work piece. The machining axis, usually made from cast iron or aluminum, holds the spindle and the associated cutting tools. These cutting tools rotate at high speed and are used to machine the work piece. Finally, the direct drive control unit, typically a numerical control device, operates the drive motors that power the machining axis and controls their direction and speed.
In addition to the components mentioned above, modern metal cutting CNC machine tools may also have additional features such as tool changers, coolant systems, and automatic rotating head systems. Tool changers allow for the quick exchange of tools, such as drill bits and cutting tools, while the coolant system provide added lubrication and cooling during machining operations. Automatic rotating head systems are used to change the orientation of the machining axis more quickly, thus increasing productivity.
In order for these machine tools to provide the necessary accuracy and repeatability, they must be rigorously calibrated and tested. Calibration ensures that all parts of the machine tool are within the manufacturers specifications. This process can be done manually or with the use of a CNC testing tool. Once calibrated, the machine should be stress tested under simulated production conditions. During the testing process any problems can be identified and corrected before the machine is put into production.
Modern metal cutting CNC machine tools have revolutionized the manufacturing process, allowing higher levels of precision and repeatable accuracy to be achieved while operating at much higher speeds than traditional manual cutting methods. By using high precision machine tools with advanced control systems and tool changers, manufacturers can greatly improve the speed and accuracy of their operations while maintaining high levels of quality and reliability.