Whether you’re producing a prototype or fleshing out an entire product line, you want precision, quality, and consistency. To achieve these goals, it’s important to choose a machine shop that has the right technological capabilities. You’ll want to choose a product development partner with CNC machining capabilities.
Kooks Industries has been a leading name in product development services since 2012, and a big part of our claim to fame is the robust set of technological solutions we provide. We offer a full array of CNC machining services to clients around the world.
If you’re new to CNC machinery, it may be helpful to have a little background. Here’s a quick guide to what CNC machining is all about.
What is CNC Machining?
CNC stands for computer numerical control. This is a method for automating the control of machine tools, specifically through the use of computer software that’s embedded via microchip somewhere in the tool itself.
While there are a number of applications of CNC machinery, it’s most commonly used for manipulating metal and plastic parts. At Kooks Industries, we use CNC machining to work with all kinds of common metals, including stainless steel, steel, and aluminum.
In the CNC process, every item that’s being manufactured gets its own, custom computer program. This program is stored in and implemented by the machine control unit, or MCU, which is basically a tiny computer attached to the tool. This program contains a clear set of parameters and instructions for the tool to follow. For example, the program can dictate things like the angle and positioning of the tool, the rate at which materials are fed through the tool, and the speed at which the tool functions.
How Does the CNC Machining Process Work?
CNC technology can be paired with a range of different tools, encompassing everything from lathes to routers, from mills to grinders. CNC can even be used to direct non-machine tools, such as welding.
The process begins when an engineer creates a CAD drawing of the product, part, or component they are seeking to manufacture. The drawing is then translated into G-code, a universal computer language. The program is uploaded to the MCU, and one of the engineering team members will run a quick test, usually without a piece of raw material, to ensure the program directs the tool appropriately. This test is critical, as any errors with the speed or positioning of the tool could either damage the tool, or simply waste raw material.
Ultimately, machine shops and production development companies use CNC because it provides higher levels of consistency, precision, and repeatability than what you could achieve with manual machining. Additionally, CNC machining can handle a higher level of complexity than what you’d be able to do manually. For instance, CNC machining can be a great way to create contoured or 3-D shapes.
CNC machining requires trained, capable CNC machinists, which many companies do not have. Kooks Industries has a team of skilled CNC machinists, and we’re trusted by companies that need to outsource their CNC machining needs.
Get a FREE Quote from Kooks Industries
Kooks Industries provides a range of services and machine shop capabilities, with CNC machining being foremost among them. Our team is known for a commitment to customer service, fast turnaround times, and a high level of quality control.
If you have any questions about the CNC machining process, or wish to start a project of your own, reach out to us any time. We’d love to provide you with a FREE quote for your prototype or production.
