You might have heard about the huge computers that occupied whole rooms. Yet, you are likely reading this article using a small computer or even a portable tablet or phone. You would not have the ability to live in a world where computers are only available in small numbers if the machines that make them were not as efficient, fast, and precise. Even though it may not seem important, knowing the origins of so many things you rely on is invaluable. Here’s where the CNC machine shops, the unsung hero in manufacturing, come into play.
The CNC machine shops are the unassuming shapers of the many parts, components, products, and other metal items that make a real difference in our lives. A CNC Lathe in Fremont, CA , as it is called, is a place where metals are cut, formed, and then shaped by machine tools. The machine shop concept is no longer a medieval “smithy” but a modern, high-tech multi-million-dollar business that doesn’t need a hammer nor anvil.
The evolution of modern machine
Shops saw an increase in technology and innovation. The rapid production of tools, aided by the industrial revolution, led to tools that could be mass-produced. Although it might seem redundant, it’s really true. Imagine the first batch that could produce more machines than it needed. The ability to quickly manufacture and mass-produce machines with interchangeable parts made it possible for more businesses to create more products.
Think about metal components in your house, car, or office. There are years of history and innovation going back to the industrial revolution and beyond. CNC (computer numerical control) is today’s main technology for metal products.
CNC machinery benefits
Whether you drive your vehicle or use your computer. It’s a technology that business barons could only dream about. So, what is numerical control? In the simplest definition, numerical control is the automation or programming of machine tools. This includes boring machines and industrial-milling machines. Instead of controlling the machining tools by hand cranks and levers as in the 18th Century, they are fully controlled by computer-programmed commands that can be repeated anytime the machine shop needs to make a second part. This makes it extremely easy to produce the exact same part repeatedly and saves money.
There was only one type of numerical control before CNC.
It required a programmer for tapes that could be used to enter the commands. As computers got more powerful, a number of subroutines became popular. They could be used to enter a series of points and speeds and produce the list of “instructions“, that a machine requires to produce a given piece.
Before long, computer numerical control l (CNC) was used alongside computer-aided design (CAD). In CNC machine shops and CNC machining centers around the world. Making both the design and machining of metal products even faster and more effective. This allows everything to be brought from the manufacturer to you, including precision electronic parts.
