CNC & Machine Controls
A Realistic Definition Of Cycle Time
Many people determine cycle time by measuring cycle start to cycle start time. As the operator presses the cycle start button, he or she starts the stopwatch.
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Faster Milling of EDM Electrodes With Retrofit CNC Package
This precision moldmaker working out of his garage wanted to compete with bigger shops that had Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment. This led him to consider retrofitting his manual Kent milling machine with a CNC retrofit package. And he did.
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Modern CNC Control Systems for High Speed Machining
All around the world, companies that machine molds and dies face numerous challenges as well as numerous opportunities. How these companies are responding are influencing the entire metalworking industry.
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Long-Distance CNC Service
To most users, the talk so far about the potential of 'open' PC-based CNCs has greatly exceeded the benefits. Here's one application that delivers the goods.
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Under Control
This small-parts machining operation combines superbly automated workholding and handling with total machining process management.
Read MoreSlashing Part-To-Part Programming Time On The Shop Floor
How do you improve productivity with the excessive amount of time and effort it takes to program parts before they can be run on the shop floor? As parts have become more complex over the years and demands for accuracy have become more stringent, the challenge has become even greater. Shop owners are faced with the dilemma of being even more productive, while still spending hours programming machinery before cutting their first parts. Now there is an option for shop owners that enables them to go from part to part on the shop floor without involving off-line programmers.
Read MoreCommunicating With The Machine Tool
If you continue to operate a bankrupt company in the same manner, you will continue to be bankrupt. This was the primary thought of Steve Brown before he acquired a failed stretch forming company in Gardena, California. Mr. Brown was President of Camarillo Dynamics, an aerospace machining company.
Read MoreWhich Is Faster, G00 or G01?
Special thanks to Kyle A. Thornley, Technical Instructor at GE Fanuc Automation, for explaining the principles described in this article.
Read MoreCompany Navigates Its Way To More Efficient Shop Floor
Until recently, punched paper tape was still being used to transfer part programs into the machine tool controls. However, the company's manufacturing processes have undergone a metamorphosis that has saved the company time as well as money.
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Today's CNC Gives You More Control
Greater processing speed in combination with more sophisticated software is delivering high functionality, even on modestly priced machining centers.
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