What is CNC turning? ⚙️
CNC turning is an automated machining process that shapes materials like metal, plastic, or wood by rotating a workpiece on a lathe while a cutting tool removes material to achieve precise, custom shapes. Controlled by computer numeric control (CNC), this process ensures high accuracy and consistency, creating parts with exact measurements and smooth finishes. CNC turning is especially valued for its ability to produce components with cylindrical or round shapes, such as shafts, rings, and bushings, with minimal manual intervention.
How CNC Turning Works
In CNC turning, a piece of raw material is rotated while a lathe’s cutting tool removes material to form the desired shape. CNC software controls the entire process, moving the tool with exact precision and enabling consistent results across multiple pieces. The lathe can be programmed to work on both the outer and inner diameters of the material, allowing for the creation of complex internal and external features.
The main steps involved in CNC turning are:
Design and Programming: A CAD (Computer-Aided Design) model is created, defining the shape of the part. This design is converted to G-code, which tells the CNC lathe how to move and cut the workpiece.
Material Loading: The raw material is secured in the lathe's chuck.
Turning Process: The lathe rotates the material at high speeds while the cutting tool removes layers of material, shaping it into the finished part.
Finishing: Additional operations, like threading, boring, or drilling, may be performed if required, and the part is inspected for accuracy.
CNC in Plasma Cutting
CNC technology is also used in plasma cutting to provide precise, automated control of a plasma torch, which cuts metals by creating a high-temperature plasma arc. This process allows for intricate cuts and smooth edges on metal sheets, which would be difficult to achieve with a handheld torch.
Plasma cutting involves passing an electrically charged gas (plasma) through a nozzle to the workpiece, melting it, and blowing away the molten material to form a clean cut. This CNC automation makes plasma cutting faster and more accurate, ideal for fabrication applications requiring intricate metal shapes.
Types of Plasma Cutters
Depending on fabrication needs, there are different types of plasma cutters:
Air Plasma Cutters: Use electrically charged air, suitable for light to medium cutting needs.
Mixed-Gas Plasma Cutters: Combine gases (e.g., nitrogen or argon) to achieve cleaner cuts and handle thicker materials.
High-Definition Plasma Cutters: Utilize a narrowed nozzle to concentrate the plasma arc, achieving high energy density and providing exceptionally clean, high-quality edges.
For those in need of reliable CNC machines for turning, milling, or routing, Stoney CNC offers a variety of machines suited to different applications. Along with high-quality products, Stoney CNC provides expert training and consultancy to help you get the most out of your CNC investment.
