A computer numerical control (CNC) machining center is made up of many different components that work together and enable you to create machined parts. Learning about the components of a CNC machining center will give you a foundation of knowledge to build on as you advance in your training to become a CNC operator.
Learning Objectives
- Define a CNC machining center
- List the components of a CNC machining center
- Describe the purpose of each component
- Describe how the axis assemblies move the spindle head assembly and the table
A CNC machining center moves on three axes of travel. It uses a machine coordinate system and a part coordinate system to identify positions on the axes. Learning about how a CNC machining center moves and identifies positions will help you understand how the geometry of a part is defined and how the part is machined.
Learning Objectives
- Define movements on the Z-axis
- Define movements on the Y-axis
- Define movements on the X-axis
- Describe the machine coordinate system
- Define machine home
- Describe the part coordinate system
- Define part zero
- Describe how ordered triplets are used to define the geometry of a part
Different types of workholding devices and tool holders make a computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining center versatile. Learning about workholding devices and tool holders will give you a better understanding of how a CNC machining center works.
Learning Objectives
- Identify common workholding devices
- List the components of a vise
- List the components of a fixture
- List the components of a tool holder
- Describe how an automatic tool change occurs
The CNC controller is a computer numerical control (CNC) device that directs the motions of the machine tool. Understanding the parts of the CNC controller and how they operate will enable you to operate a CNC machining center accurately and efficiently.
Learning Objectives
- Identify the five main areas of the CNC controller
- Describe how the operator controls work
- List the areas of the display screen
- List the areas of the keyboard
- Describe how the Shift key works
- Describe the side panel controls
The lubrication, coolant, and chip removal systems keep the CNC machining center components lubricated and free from dirt and debris. These systems are essential to the consistent production of quality products.
Learning Objectives
- Describe how the lubrication system works
- Describe how the coolant system works
- Describe how the chip removal system works