The Importance of CNC in Zagar Machines

 

ZAGAR MQ CNC Controller Package

ZAGAR MQ CNC Controller Package

ZAGAR is hydraulic, pneumatic and high-production drilling & tapping machines and related equipment.  Geared multi-spindle drill heads by ZAGAR are engineered for adaptability, CNC, high repeatability, speed & performance in manufacturing applications.

Why is CNC so important?  Integration and adaptability of ZAGAR Machines are commonplace because our machines are made for Computer Numerical Control, or CNC.  Machining is a subtractive process, meaning material is removed from the workpiece.  CNC machining utilizes computerized controls and machines tools to remove material from the workpiece autonomously.  With today’s shortage of skilled labor, automation is more important than ever.

Stages of CNC Machining Process

How does it work?  There are four main stages of the CNC machining process.

The first phase involves designing the model using CAD, or computer aided design software.  In this step, the engineer creates either a 2D vector or a 3D solid part CAD design.  This may be done in house, using CAD software such as SOLIDWORKS, aided by a Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software such as CAMWORKS, or SOLIDWORKS CAM.  Alternatively, this work can be handled by an exterior CAD/CAM design service.  This step allows manufacturers to produce a model or rendering of their parts and or products, with dimensions, and other required technical specifications.

Once the CAD design is completed, the designer exports it to a CNC-compatible file format or code using CAM software.  CAM software is designed specifically to facilitate the shift from design to implementation.   In fact, the second step is relatively seamless with the first, thanks to software development in CAM and CNC.

Step three involves preparing the CNC machine.  Once the CAM software delivers a readable file, the CNC operator can set up the machine.  He or she does this by attaching the appropriate workpieces and tooling for the program to execute its job.

And finally, the fourth step is the executing of the machining operation on the blank or workpiece.  The CNC operator starts the program, which controls the machine, guiding it through the procedure.

Types of CNC Machines

CNC machining is used in the subtractive manufacturing process.  Machines that benefit from the use of computer numerical control include:

  • Drills and Taps: A classic hole making machine, or drill, spins the drill bit against the material to remove some of it. Taps characterize the hole created by the drill bit, creating threads such as in the center hole of nuts.
  • Lathes spin material against the cutting tool to shape it to specifications.
  • Milling Machines use rotary cutters to remove material.
  • Waterjet, laser or plasma cutters are all used to cut parts out of sheet metal.

Each of the machines listed, when run on a CNC program can be automated to perform machining tasks at a high level of precision and high volume.  Each CNC run machine requires less human intervention to perform the tasks.  Manufacturers find CNC machines are versatile enough to be useful in a variety of applications.  In a manufacturing process, CNC allows machines to complete more manufacturing tasks autonomously, increasing production levels.  Just as important as delivering more products faster, is the CNC machine’s ability to create rapid, precision prototype parts.  The combination means producing prototypes for approval are faster and productivity is increased – increasing the competitive edge of the manufacturer.

Recognizing the need for quality CNC, ZAGAR is proud to feature Siemens CNC digital native machine tool control standard on tools like the Zagar MQ150 SU.  Siemens CNC controllers integrate effortlessly with software to answer industry specific requirements.  Zagar teams with Siemens to continue to provide cost effective solutions for your automation needs.

Visit https://www.zagar.com/ today or call (216) 731-0500 for information on how ZAGAR machines can boost your production.