CNC Machines Australia: Your Comprehensive Guide

In recent decades, CNC machining has helped to revolutionise the field of engineering, emerging as a dominant method of manufacturing. Within this article, we explore CNC machining, and discover the diverse range of CNC services available.

The History of the CNC Machine

Its inception is often attributed to John Parsons. An esteemed computer pioneer, Parsons contributed his expertise to an Air Force Research Project focusing on the improvement of helicopter blades and aircraft skin.

Parsons harnessed the computational power of an IBM 602A multiplier to precisely calculate the coordinates of helicopter airfoils. These calculations were then meticulously recorded onto punched cards, which he subsequently employed with a Swiss jig borer. This groundbreaking approach ultimately facilitated the production of numerous helicopter blades and aircraft skins.Within CNC history, this pioneering effort is recognised as the birth of the first CNC machine.

Understanding CNC Machining

Delving deeper into CNC machining, we shed light on the mechanics, advantages, and industries in which CNC machining shines.CNC machining removes material (rather than adding it) to create a finished part. Starting with a material block, CNC machines employ high-speed cutters to carve the material into the desired shape meticulously.

Operation

CNC machines are directed by digitalised computers that automate, oversee, and control industrial machinery movements. Larger-scale industrial facilities typically integrate computers within the machines.The precise actions guided by this code vary depending on the type of CNC machine used.

Industries Utilising CNC Machining

CNC machining finds applications across numerous industries, such as aerospace, energy, electronics, automotive, manufacturing, and more. It is particularly valuable in sectors where precision is paramount.CNC machining caters to a wide array of industries, offering versatility in creating accurate parts.

Types of CNC Machines

Milling Machines: Renowned for precision, CNC milling employs built-in tools for drilling and cutting. These machines use computer-guided drilling and cutting tools to shape materials.

Lathe Machines: CNC turning involves rotating the material while cutting it, as opposed to moving cutting tools. CNC lathe machines manipulate and position materials as per computer instructions.

Plasma-cutting Machines: Similar to milling machines, plasma-cutting CNC machines are used for cutting materials. They use a high-powered plasma torch capable of cutting through tough materials like metal.

Laser-cutting Machines: In contrast to plasma cutting, laser-cutting CNC machines use lasers for precision cutting.

Benefits of CNC Machining

CNC machining offers numerous advantages:

Ideal for Large Quantities:It is cost-effective for producing moderate to large quantities of parts.

Compatibility with Various Materials: They can work with a wide range of materials, including metals like aluminum, stainless steel, magnesium alloy, and more.

Rapid Production: They are known for its quick turnaround times.

Exceptional Accuracy: They deliver precise results, with tolerances as tight as +/- 0.005mm achievable.

Versatile Finishing Options: They allows for a variety of post-processing and finishing options, including anodizing, polishing, plating, and heat treatment.

CNC machining is reliable, precise, and diverse in terms of its applicability. Simply select the right supplier and digital manufacturing platform when ordering your parts, and success is within reach.

Automating your CNC Machine

At ASA we take CNC machining to a whole other level by automating your CNC machine robotically. Are you looking to automate your CNC machine? At ASA we work with all brands of machine tools, including Okuma, DMG Mori, Mazak, Doosan, Haas and many, many more. To read up on robotic CNC Machine Automation, and all it entails, click here.