CNC MACHINE UTILIZATION

From the CNC Machinist
The introduction of CNC machine tools has revolutionized manufacturing process. These CNC machines have many advantages over the conventional machines like better scheduling, flexibility, increased productivity, reduced setup and lead time, reduced tool cost, reduced material scrap, and most importantly production of superior quality products. CNC machines are many times expensive than their conventional counterparts.

The CNC machinist should know that the maintenance of the machine and control system, process planning, part programming, tooling and fixtures, management, and inspection are the factors influencing the utilization of CNC machines.

The CNC machinist should know that the CNC machines are high-tech machines and require highly skilled maintenance engineers. A good maintenance program could be worked out including, daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, bi-annually, and annually as per the requirements. As the CNC machinist knows for reducing the idle time,the CNC machines require tremendous overall planning procedures and systematic careful selection and applications of tools, tool holders, and work holding fixtures, etc.