CNC Notes
CNC Notes
CNC Notes
In a CNC machine, there is a dedicated computer that is integrated into the control to perform the basic
and advanced NC functions. The computer allows the storage of additional programs, program editing,
running of programs, and control diagnostics. For the CNC machine, it is very easy to change the
programs while in an NC machine every time the program is changed in the tape and fed into the
machine again.
In the CNC machine tool, the encoder is used to sense and control the table position. In a CNC machine,
there is a dedicated computer that is integrated into the control to perform the basic and advanced NC
functions.
The computer allows the storage of additional programs, program editing, running of programs, and
control diagnostics.
For the CNC machine, it is very easy to change the programs while in an NC machine every time the
program is changed in the tape and fed into the machine again.
Increased Productivity: It is achieved due to lower cycle time and lower setup times.
Improved Quality: Due to accurate part dimensions and excellent surface finish which is achieved due to
accurate motion control.
Reduced Scrap Rate: The part programs are developed in an optimized way to reduce the scrap rate.
CNC systems can be interfaced with CAD/CAM, DNC, and FMS to increase productivity.
Profile Generation
Feedback processing
In a CNC machine, the part programs are initially entered either through a punched tape reader or could
be entered through a video control unit. The main difference between CNC and conventional NC control
is thus that while in the conventional system the punched tape is cycled through the reader for every
work piece in the batch but in CNC, the program is entered once and then stored in computer memory.
CNC of course has additional flexibility and computational capability. Reprogramming capability, both
for part programs and system control, makes the system quite flexible and versatile.
While a computer is meant mainly for machine tool control, it also performs other functions like in-
process compensation, improved programming and operating features, and diagnostics.
In addition, a computer can also be used to optimise the machining process (adaptive control strategy)
i.e. it measures one or more process variables (like cutting force, temperature, horsepower, etc.) and
manipulates speed and/or feed to compensate for undesirable changes in the process variables.
Machine tool control involves the conversion of the part program instruction into machine tool motions
through the computer interface and servo system.
Sometimes, it is found advantageous to use hardwired logic circuits for some of the functions, and thus
hybrid system consisting of the soft-wired system (for motion interpolation and servo-system) and
hardwired logic and interface is also used.
With computer control, in-process compensation facilities (like adjustments for error sensed by in-
process inspection probes and gauges; offset adjustments for tool radius and length, computation of
predicted tool life and appropriate action for change of tool, adaptive control) are easily provided.
Further several improved and convenient programming and operating features are incorporated. Some
of these are editing of part programs at the machine, permitting correction and optimisation of the
program; graphic display of the tool path to verify the tape; several types of interpolation like circular,
parabolic, cubic, etc.; storage of a large number of part programs; manual data input; use of specially
written subroutines which simplify the task of programming; etc.
In view of the high initial cost of CNC machines, it is imperative that the downtime should be as least as
possible. In other words, the mean time between failures (MTBF) should be high and the meantime to
repair (MTTR) be less.
This is achieved by incorporating suitable diagnostics features which assist the operator in maintaining
and repairing the system by giving timely information of the exact nature of the fault. For very critical
components, redundancy is incorporated so that the standby part takes over whenever the main part
fails and machine operation continues uninterruptedly. At the same time, an alarm is given for the failed
part which can be replaced online.
Tape reader, a weak component of the conventional NC system is used only once initially for program
entry.
NC tape can be updated at the machine site during the tape tryout.
CNC can accommodate the conversion of tapes prepared in units of inches into the International System
of units.
The risk of obsolescence is less since new control options (like interpolation schemes, other updates,
etc. can be introduced with relative ease.
It is possible to optimise working conditions by using techniques like adaptive control and in-process
compensation.
CNC system is more compatible with total factory automation.
FMS is called flexible due to the reason that it is capable of processing a variety of different part styles
simultaneously at the workstation and quantities of products can be adjusted in response to changing
demand patterns.
DNC System:
Direct Numerical Control (DNC) is the automation process on the shop floor.
It is a method by which a number of CNC machine tools are connected together and controlled by a
single computer, which is called a central computer.
Several machines are directly controlled step by step by a central mainframe computer.
In this system, the operator has access to the control computer through a remote terminal.
In this way, the handling of tapes and the need for a separate computer on each machine are
eliminated.
With DNC, the status of all machines in a manufacturing facility can be monitored and assessed from the
central computer.
Numerical Control
Numerical control (NC) is the name given to the method where the movements of the machine
components are controlled by directly inserting the coded instructions, in the form of numbers and
letters into the system.
Data Input: The numerical information is read and stored in the tape reader or computer memory.
Data Processing: The programs are read into the machine control unit for processing.
Data Output: The information in the tape is translated into the commands to the servomotors. The
servomotors then move the table onto which workpiece is there to specific positions by means of
stepping motors, lead screws, and other devices.
CAD/CAM
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design whereas CAM is the abbreviation for Computer-Aided
Manufacturing.
CAD/CAM applications are used to both design a product and program manufacturing processes,
specifically, CNC machining.
CAD and CAM can be set up to create a direct link between the design and manufacture of a product.
The drawing geometry is then used in the CAM program to generate instructions for the CNC machine
tools employing stamping, cutting, burning, bending and other types of operations.
An automatic tool changer (ATC) is used in computerized numerical control (CNC) machine tools to
improve the production and tool-carrying capacity of the machine.
They are generally used to improve the capacity of the machines to work with a number of tools.
The main parts of an automatic tool changer are the base, the gripper arm, the tool holder, the support
arm, and the tool magazines.
Although the ATC increases the reliability, speed, and accuracy of a machine, it creates more challenges
compared to manual tool change.
For example, the tooling used must be easy to centre, and easy for the changer to grab, and there
should be a simple way to provide the tool’s self-disengagement.
Tools used in ATC are secured in tool holders specially designed for this purpose
It is one of the most powerful metrological instruments; coordinate measuring machines are widely
used in most manufacturing plants, large and small.
CMMs are referred to as those machines that give physical representations of a three-dimensional
rectilinear Cartesian coordinate system.
The basic hardware elements of a typical CMM include structural elements, supporting bearings, drive
systems, feedback elements, probe head, and control systems.
Backlash:
This is any non – movement that occurs during axis reversals. For example, if X-axis is commanded to
move 1 inch in the positive direction. Immediately after this movement, if X-axis is commanded to move
1 inch in the negative direction. If any backlash exists in the X-axis, then it will not immediately start
moving in the negative direction, and the motion departure will not be precisely 1 inch.
Preloaded Ballscrews:
Ballscrews, also called ball-bearing screws, recirculating ballscrews, etc., consist of a screw spindle and a
nut integrated with balls and the balls’ return mechanism, return tubes or return caps. Ballscrews are
the most common type of screws used in industrial machinery and precision machines. The primary
function of a ballscrew is to convert rotary motion to linear motion or torque to thrust, and vice versa,
with the features of high accuracy, reversibility, and efficiency.
There are many benefits in using ballscrews such as high efficiency and reversibility, backlash
elimination, high stiffness, high lead accuracy. Compared with the contact thread lead screws as shown
in the figure, a ballscrew adds balls between the nut and spindle. The sliding friction of the conventional
screw is thus replaced by the rolling motion of the balls.
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machine tools require ballscrews with zero axial backlash and
minimal elastic deformation (high stiffness).
Backlash is eliminated by our specially designed Gothic arch form ball track and preload.
In order to achieve high overall stiffness and repeatable positioning in CNC machines, preloading of the
ballscrews is commonly used. However, excessive preload increases friction torque in operation. This
induced friction torque will generate heat and reduce life expectancy.
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Tool Change
Profile Generation
Feedback processing
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Explanation:
CNC Machine:
In a CNC machine, there is a dedicated computer that is integrated into the control to perform the basic
and advanced NC functions. The computer allows the storage of additional programs, program editing,
running of programs, and control diagnostics. For the CNC machine, it is very easy to change the
programs while in an NC machine every time the program is changed in the tape and fed into the
machine again.
In the CNC machine tool, the encoder is used to sense and control the table position.
Profile Generation
Feedback processing
They are generally used to improve the capacity of the machines to work with a number of tools.
The main parts of an automatic tool changer are the base, the gripper arm, the tool holder, the support
arm, and the tool magazines.
Although the ATC increases the reliability, speed, and accuracy of a machine, it creates more challenges
compared to manual tool change.
For example, the tooling used must be easy to center, and easy for the changer to grab, and there
should be a simple way to provide the tool’s self-disengagement.
Tools used in ATC are secured in tool holders specially designed for this purpose
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CAD/CAM
DNC
FMS
Explanation:
In a CNC machine, there is a dedicated computer that is integrated into the control to perform the basic
and advanced NC functions.
The computer allows the storage of additional programs, program editing, running of programs, and
control diagnostics.
For the CNC machine, it is very easy to change the programs while in an NC machine every time the
program is changed in the tape and fed into the machine again.
Increased Productivity: It is achieved due to lower cycle time and lower setup times.
Improved Quality: Due to accurate part dimensions and excellent surface finish which is achieved due to
accurate motion control.
Reduced Scrap Rate: The part programs are developed in an optimized way to reduce the scrap rate.
CNC systems can be interfaced with CAD/CAM, DNC, and FMS to increase productivity.
DNC System:
Direct Numerical Control (DNC) is the automation process on the shop floor.
It is a method by which a number of CNC machine tools are connected together and controlled by a
single computer, which is called a central computer.
Numerical Control
Numerical control (NC) is the name given to the method where the movements of the machine
components are controlled by directly inserting the coded instructions, in the form of numbers and
letters into the system.
Data Input: The numerical information is read and stored in the tape reader or computer memory.
Data Processing: The programs are read into the machine control unit for processing.
Data Output: The information in the tape is translated into the commands to the servomotors. The
servomotors then move the table onto which workpiece is there to specific positions by means of
stepping motors, lead screws, and other devices.
CAD/CAM
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design whereas CAM is the abbreviation for Computer-Aided
Manufacturing.
CAD/CAM applications are used to both design a product and program manufacturing processes,
specifically, CNC machining.
CAD and CAM can be set up to create a direct link between the design and manufacture of a product.
The drawing geometry is then used in the CAM program to generate instructions for the CNC machine
tools employing stamping, cutting, burning, bending and other types of operations.
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A CNC worktable is driven in a linear direction by a lead screw connected directly to a stepper motor.
The pitch of the lead screw is 5 mm. The stepper motor completes one full revolution upon receiving
600 pulses. If the worktable speed is 5 m/minute and there is no missed pulse, then the pulse rate being
received by the stepper motor is
20 kHz
10 kHz
3 kHz
15 kHz
Option 2 : 10 kHz
Concept:
Calculation:
Given:
Frequency, f = =
F = 10000 Hz = 10 kHz
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Which of the following is NOT correct about Computer numerical control (CNC) machines?
The NC tape can be corrected and even optimized at the site of the machine tool
CNC can accommodate conversion of tapes prepared in units of inches into the International System of
units
The part program tape and tape reader are used only once to enter the program into computer
memory.
The part program tape and tape reader must be used multiple times
Option 4 : The part program tape and tape reader must be used multiple times
Explanation:
CNC System:
In a CNC machine, the part programs are initially entered either through a punched tape reader or could
be entered through a video control unit. The main difference between CNC and conventional NC control
is thus that while in the conventional system the punched tape is cycled through the reader for every
workpiece in the batch but in CNC, the program is entered once and then stored in computer memory.
CNC of course has additional flexibility and computational capability. Reprogramming capability, both
for part programs and system control, makes the system quite flexible and versatile.
While a computer is meant mainly for machine tool control, it also performs other functions like in-
process compensation, improved programming and operating features, and diagnostics.
In addition, a computer can also be used to optimise the machining process (adaptive control strategy)
i.e. it measures one or more process variables (like cutting force, temperature, horsepower, etc.) and
manipulates speed and/or feed to compensate for undesirable changes in the process variables.
Machine tool control involves the conversion of the part program instruction into machine tool motions
through the computer interface and servo system.
Sometimes, it is found advantageous to use hardwired logic circuits for some of the functions, and thus
hybrid system consisting of the soft-wired system (for motion interpolation and servo-system) and
hardwired logic and interface is also used.
With computer control, in-process compensation facilities (like adjustments for error sensed by in-
process inspection probes and gauges; offset adjustments for tool radius and length, computation of
predicted tool life and appropriate action for change of tool, adaptive control) are easily provided.
Further several improved and convenient programming and operating features are incorporated. Some
of these are editing of part programs at the machine, permitting correction and optimisation of the
program; graphic display of the tool path to verify the tape; several types of interpolation like circular,
parabolic, cubic, etc.; storage of a large number of part programs; manual data input; use of specially
written subroutines which simplify the task of programming; etc.
In view of the high initial cost of CNC machines, it is imperative that the downtime should be as least as
possible. In other words, the mean time between failures (MTBF) should be high and the meantime to
repair (MTTR) be less.
This is achieved by incorporating suitable diagnostics features which assist the operator in maintaining
and repairing the system by giving timely information of the exact nature of the fault. For very critical
components, redundancy is incorporated so that the standby part takes over whenever the main part
fails and machine operation continues uninterruptedly. At the same time, an alarm is given for the failed
part which can be replaced online.
Tape reader, a weak component of the conventional NC system is used only once initially for program
entry.
NC tape can be updated at the machine site during the tape tryout.
CNC can accommodate the conversion of tapes prepared in units of inches into the International System
of units.
The risk of obsolescence is less since new control options (like interpolation schemes, other updates,
etc. can be introduced with relative ease.
It is possible to optimise working conditions by using techniques like adaptive control and in-process
compensation.
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Presently, Numerical Control of machine tools use which type of hardware technology?
Electromechanical relays
Vacuum tubes
Discrete semiconductors
Explanation:
Conventional manual machine tools have problems in manufacturing complex and accurate parts.
By 1952 the first NC machine, with three controlled axes, was developed at the Massachusetts Institute
of Technology (MIT).
In the 1960s NC machines reached a stage where they became reasonably reliable and productive.
These first NC systems used electronic hardware, based upon digital circuit technology.
The next improvement was the CNC (computer numerical controlled) systems, which were introduced in
the early 1970s.
CNC systems employ a microcomputer and eliminate, as far as possible, additional hardware circuits in
the machine controller.
This development from hardware-based NC to software-based CNC increased flexibility and provided
the possibility of introducing new features in the machine control unit.
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A machine tool having a dedicated computer to help prepare the program and control some or all of the
operations of the machine tool is called:
Explanation:
A machine tool having a dedicated computer to help prepare the program and control some or all of the
operations of the machine tool is called Computer Numerical Control Machine Tool.
Computer Numerical Control
The part program may be prepared at a remote site by the programmer and it may in corporate
information obtained from drafting software package and from machining simulation in order to ensure
that the part program is plug free.
The operator can modify the programs directly, prepare programs for different parts and store the
programs.
Numerical Control
The system automatically interprets these data and converts them to output signals. These signals, in
terms, control various machine components for example, by turning spindles on and off, changing tools
moving the workpiece or the tools along specific paths, or turning cutting fluids on and off.
Several machines are directly controlled step by step by a central mainframe computer.
In this system, the operator has access to the control computer through a remote terminal.
In this way, the handling of tapes and the need for a separate computer on each machine are
eliminated.
With DNC, the status of all machines in a manufacturing facility can be monitored and assessed from the
central computer.
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CAD/CAM
DNC
FMS
All of these
Explanation:
In a CNC machine, there is a dedicated computer that is integrated into the control to perform the basic
and advanced NC functions.
The computer allows the storage of additional programs, program editing, running of program, control
diagnostics.
For the CNC machine, it is very easy to change the programs while in an NC machine every time the
program is changed in the tape and fed into the machine again.
Increased Productivity: It is achieved due to lower cycle time and lower set up times.
Improved Quality: Due to accurate part dimensions and excellent surface finish which is achieved due to
accurate motion control.
Reduced Scrap Rate: The part programs are developed in an optimized way to reduce the scrap rate.
CNC systems can be interfaced with CAD/CAM, DNC, and FMS to increase productivity.
FMS is called flexible due to the reason that it is capable of processing a variety of different part styles
simultaneously at the workstation and quantities of products can be adjusted in response to changing
demand patterns.
DNC System:
Direct Numerical Control (DNC) is the automation process on the shop floor.
It is a method by which a number of CNC machine tools are connected together and controlled by a
single computer, which is called a central computer.
Numerical Control
Numerical control (NC) is the name given to the method where the movements of the machine
components are controlled by directly inserting the coded instructions, in the form of numbers and
letters into the system.
Data Input: The numerical information is read and stored in the tape reader or computer memory.
Data Processing: The programs are read into the machine control unit for processing.
Data Output: The information in the tape is translated into the commands to the servomotors. The
servomotors then move the table onto which workpiece is there to specific positions by means of
stepping motors, lead screws, and other devices.
CAD/CAM
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design whereas CAM is the abbreviation for Computer-Aided
Manufacturing.
CAD/CAM applications are used to both design a product and program manufacturing processes,
specifically, CNC machining.
CAD and CAM can be set up to create a direct link between the design and manufacture of a product.
The drawing geometry is then used in the CAM program to generate instructions for the CNC machine
tools employing stamping, cutting, burning, bending and other types of operations.
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Numeric control is
Numerical Control:
Numerical control (NC) is the name given to the method where the movements of the machine
components are controlled by directly inserting the coded instructions, in the form of numbers and
letters into the system. The functional elements of an NC machine tool involve the following
Data Input: The numerical information is read and stored in the tape reader or computer memory.
Data Processing: The programs are read into the machine control unit for processing.
Data Output: The information in the tape is translated into the commands to the servomotors. The
servomotors then move the table onto which workpiece is there to specific positions by means of
stepping motors, lead screws, and other devices.
Additional Information
CNC Machine:
In a CNC machine, there is a dedicated computer that is integrated into the control to perform the basic
and advanced NC functions. The computer allows the storage of additional programs, program editing,
running of program, control diagnostics. For the CNC machine, it is very easy to change the programs
while in an NC machine every time the program is changed in the tape and fed into the machine again.
CNC Systems Posses the following advantages over NC machines
Increased Productivity: It is achieved due to lower cycle time and lower set up times.
Improved Quality: Due to accurate part dimensions and excellent surface finish which is achieved due to
accurate motion control.
Reduced Scrap Rate: The part programs are developed in an optimized way to reduce the scrap rate.
CNC systems can be interfaced with CAD/CAM, DNC, and FMS to increase productivity.
FMS is called flexible due to the reason that it is capable of processing a variety of different part styles
simultaneously at the workstation and quantities of products can be adjusted in response to changing
demand patterns.
DNC System:
Direct Numerical Control (DNC) is the automation process on the shop floor.
It is a method by which a number of CNC machine tools are connected together and controlled by a
single computer, which is called a central computer.
CAD/CAM:
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design whereas CAM is the abbreviation for Computer-Aided
Manufacturing.
CAD/CAM applications are used to both design a product and program manufacturing processes,
specifically, CNC machining.
CAD and CAM can be set up to create a direct link between the design and manufacture of a product.
The drawing geometry is then used in the CAM program to generate instructions for the CNC machine
tools employing stamping, cutting, burning, bending, and other types of operations.
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Explanation:
It is one of the most powerful metrological instruments; coordinate measuring machines are widely
used in most manufacturing plants, large and small.
CMMs are referred to as those machines that give physical representations of a three-dimensional
rectilinear Cartesian coordinate system.
The basic hardware elements of a typical CMM include structural elements, supporting bearings, drive
systems, feedback elements, probe head, and control systems.
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Live Masterclass
A CNC worktable is driven in a linear direction by a lead screw connected directly to a stepper motor.
The pitch of the lead screw is 5 mm. The stepper motor completes one full revolution upon receiving
600 pulses. If the worktable speed is 5 m/minute and there is no missed pulse, then the pulse rate being
received by the stepper motor is
20 kHz
10 kHz
3 kHz
15 kHz
Option 2 : 10 kHz
Concept:
Calculation:
Given:
Frequency, f = =
F = 10000 Hz = 10 kHz
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Explanation:
Backlash:
This is any non – movement that occurs during axis reversals. For example, if X-axis is commanded to
move 1 inch in the positive direction. Immediately after this movement, if X-axis is commanded to move
1 inch in the negative direction. If any backlash exists in the X-axis, then it will not immediately start
moving in the negative direction, and the motion departure will not be precisely 1 inch.
Preloaded Ballscrews:
Ballscrews, also called ball-bearing screws, recirculating ballscrews, etc., consist of a screw spindle and a
nut integrated with balls and the balls’ return mechanism, return tubes or return caps. Ballscrews are
the most common type of screws used in industrial machinery and precision machines. The primary
function of a ballscrew is to convert rotary motion to linear motion or torque to thrust, and vice versa,
with the features of high accuracy, reversibility, and efficiency.
There are many benefits in using ballscrews such as high efficiency and reversibility, backlash
elimination, high stiffness, high lead accuracy. Compared with the contact thread lead screws as shown
in the figure, a ballscrew adds balls between the nut and spindle. The sliding friction of the conventional
screw is thus replaced by the rolling motion of the balls.
Features:
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machine tools require ballscrews with zero axial backlash and
minimal elastic deformation (high stiffness).
Backlash is eliminated by our specially designed Gothic arch form ball track and preload.
In order to achieve high overall stiffness and repeatable positioning in CNC machines, preloading of the
ballscrews is commonly used. However, excessive preload increases friction torque in operation. This
induced friction torque will generate heat and reduce life expectancy.
Ballscrews can reach an efficiency as high as 90% because of the rolling contact between the screw and
the nut. Therefore, the torque requirement is approximately one-third of that of conventional screws.
The mechanical efficiency of ball screws is much higher than conventional lead screws.
Due to metal to metal contact, conventional contact thread lead screws require high starting force to
overcome the starting friction. However, due to rolling ball contact, ballscrews need only a small starting
force to overcome their starting friction.
Adaptive control:
Adaptive control is another step towards true automation, wherein the vital element of decision making
is added.
As the component is being manufactured, the important variables are measured, and then if needed,
certain variables are altered within programmed limits, to get as accurate the finished part as possible
Adaptive control measures certain output process variables and uses these to control automatically
adjusting the speed and feed parameters according to actual cutting conditions the system
For example, in drilling, the torque on the drill is measured and speed and feed or both are adjusted
within programmed limits.
Similarly, in the milling process, feed, speed, and depth of cut are controlled in response to signal from
torque, force, vibration, and dimensional transducers.