Mechanical Processing Concept and Application
Abstract
Mechanical processing is an important element of industrial manufacturing. It involves the use of machines to shape material into desired shapes, sizes, and properties. Primarily, mechanical processing is used for the mass production of components and to meet precise dimensional and surface-finish requirements. Today, modern CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technologies help give manufacturing capabilities to machines and make precise production of components possible. This article will provide a brief overview of the concepts, principles, processes, and applications of mechanical processing.
Introduction
Mechanical processing is used in industrial manufacturing to produce components, parts and tools that have precise dimensional and surface-finish requirements. It is also used when mass production or precise production of components is required. The term mechanical processing generally refers to the physical machining or shaping of material through the use of mechanical tools such as lathes, milling machines and grinding machines.
A machining process is used when material is removed from workpiece in the form of chips in order to achieve a desired shape, size, or surface finish. Material can be removed in two ways. One is through the application of a cutting force; the other by using a tool that rotates on its axis against the material. Examples of machining processes include turning, drilling, reaming, counterboring and grinding.
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is a major development that has increased the demand for mechanical processing in many industries. CNC technology is used to control the machining of parts and components. CNC machines are more efficient and faster than using manual machines.
Principles of Mechanical Processing
Mechanical processing relies on the same basic principles of cutting and forming. Machining processes involve the application of a cutting force to the workpiece material to remove it in the form of chips. This process requires tooling and a machine with the ability to apply force and movement to the material. The form of the cutting force and its shape, size and position is determined by the tool geometry and machine capabilities.
The forming process is used to shape material into a desired shape or size. In this process the material is deformed by forces that act on it through the application of mechanical force. The material can be stretched, compressed, or expanded in order to achieve a desired shape or size. The force applied is determined by the material being shaped and the machine used.
The type of mechanical processing used depends on the type of material being machined, the desired shape or size of the part, and the application for which the part is being made. Machining processes can be broadly divided into two categories, conventional and Non-Conventional Processes.
Conventional machining processes, such as turning and milling, are used to produce components, parts and tools with desired shapes, sizes, and surface finishes. Non-Conventional Processes, such as electrochemical and electro-discharge machining, are used to produce components, parts and tools with desired shapes, sizes, and surface finishes with exacting accuracy, repeatability, and detail.
Applications
The application of mechanical processing depends on the type of material being processed, the shape or size desired, and the application for which the part is being produced. Common applications include automotive, aerospace, medical, military, industrial and commercial applications. Mechanical processing is also used to produce components, parts and tools to be used in machine tools, robots, and automation systems.
Conclusion
Mechanical processing is an important element of industrial manufacturing. It is used to produce components, parts and tools that have precise dimensional and surface-finish requirements for a variety of applications. Modern CNC technologies have greatly increased the capabilities of machines which, in turn, has increased the demand for mechanical processing. This article has provided a brief overview of the concepts, principles, processes, and applications of mechanical processing.
