When the term “precision machining” comes up, many assume that this level of quality in machining is a standard. However, in reality, there is a wide spectrum of quality levels possible, from really bad to really, amazingly good product. Ideally, when a customer pays for a machining project, they expect a certain level of quality to be produced. This assumption depends on how well the specifications in the desired design provided to the fabricator are then followed.
Technically speaking, precision machining involves the routing and cutting off of excess material from a target to achieve the target shape. The shaping and cutting transformation can be blunt or precise. However, in most professional cases, precise shaping is the norm. And the most precise production happens with computer numerical control machining, or CNC machining.
Understanding the Difference Between Basic Machining and CNC Precision Machining
Machining in general is quite common, especially with any kind of a metal or wood part that integrates within an assembly. Parts oftentimes have to be finished after fabrication, such as sanding and polishing. The original fabrication leaves sharp edges, rough appearances and similar. Finishing then produces the appearance that the average person is used to, shiny and clean. Basic machining is often associated with this work. However, it is precision machining that focuses on the end of the fabrication spectrum, the actual make of the part, particularly when it is a custom part that isn’t produced by the thousands on an assembly line or mass-production conveyor belt.
The above said, a good amount of precision machining today is also automated and handled repeatedly. For example, the production of wood and metal screws as well as threaded bolts are all a result of precision machining. The threads that actually appear on the metal for twisting and securing are created through a machining process that carves the threads into the metal itself and removes the excess. The result is a nail-like rod or internally threaded nut that can be used to secure things together tightly. This kind of machining is done by the thousands in mass production, counts as precision machining, but has nothing to do with CNC machining.
The Differential of CNC Precision Machining
With a CNC precision machining approach, one can create parts that have extreme adherence to very specific dimensions, shaping qualities not possible with human manual fabrication, and a level of professionalism with hard materials that would take months to complete by hand. All of this is possible with computer technology that guides the tool with exact specifications and a low tolerance of error. In fact, what many people find with CNC machining is that the greatest amount of work involved goes into the design and programming that the CNC machine will utilize for directions on what to produce.
The growth of advanced computer design has made CNC machining a standard for anything beyond a common gear or joint in terms of machining. The degree to which designers can fabricate parts, either as one-off prototypes or as regular production, has gone exponential with CNC design translated to fabrication. Even more interesting, CNC machining has been able to expand its range of materials to work with. For years, wood and metal were the primary stock for part fabrication. Now, a significant number of plastics, glass and graphite are also used for various product designs as well.
Not a Simple Function
Operating a CNC system to produce CNC precision machining is not learned overnight. The computer design side of the operation alone takes an extensive amount of training, particularly in understanding how to translate dimensions to program code. A working knowledge of CNC application is a must, and only those who have practiced it extensively are able to produce the best results with multiple CNC systems, ranging from the basic 3-axis machines to as much as a 9-axis setup. While there are classes one can take at local schools or trade certification programs, real learning comes with experience and time spent practicing the system’s requirements, especially on complicated projects with lots of criteria.
Evden Enterprises combines the latest in CNC machining capability for precision work along with a significant depth in experience and skill. The results speak for themselves. Evden products compete with some of the best in CNC machined products, and clients keep coming back repeatedly for more work because of Evden’s dedication to high quality output. When you know your machined parts or products need to be far above standard spec, that’s not the time to be looking for the lowest denominator in the market. Evden provides a competitive service with some of the most reputable work available in CNC machining. Connect with our specialists and you may very well be surprised at the options that are available for your project and what’s possible. Don’t settle for less. Go with Evden Enterprises for precision machining.