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7. Computer-Controlled Machining

Summary

Safety measures

When working with a CNC milling machine, it is important to follow proper safety procedures to prevent injuries, protect the equipment, and ensure accurate machining. The following safety measures were applied during our CNC milling operations.

Safety Measures for CNC

When working with a CNC machine, several safety rules must be followed to avoid accidents and damage to the machine.

  • Always wear safety glasses during milling.
  • Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry near the machine.
  • Make sure the workpiece is firmly fixed to the CNC bed.
  • Check that the milling tool is properly installed.
  • Keep hands away from the spindle and moving parts.
  • Always monitor the machine while it is running.
  • Be ready to press the emergency stop button if something goes wrong.

Following these safety measures helps ensure safe and efficient CNC machining.

CNC Machine

CNC Machine Technical Specifications

  • Machine type: Large-format CNC Router
  • Frame structure: Steel frame with rigid gantry
  • Working area: Large bed for sheet materials
  • Motion system: Linear motion along X and Y axes
  • Spindle type: High-speed electric spindle
  • Spindle rotation speed: up to ~18,000 RPM
  • Cutting tools: End mills for wood and plastic machining
  • Supported materials: Plywood, MDF, wood panels, and plastic sheets
  • Control system: CNC controller using G-code toolpaths
  • Applications: Cutting large panels, furniture parts, and structural prototypes

Working on the cnc machine

Material selection

In the wood workshop we selected the material for our CNC machining process. We chose a 10 mm MDF board because it is easy to machine and provides good cutting quality.

Before using the CNC machine, the MDF sheet was prepared and cut to the required size using a large table saw. After preparing the material, it was ready to be fixed on the CNC machine bed for the milling process.

Tool

We used a straight end mill to cut the MDF material using the CNC milling machine. This type of milling bit is suitable for cutting soft materials such as MDF, plywood, and plastics.

The end mill is made of carbide, which provides durability and allows precise cutting. During the machining process, the CNC machine follows the generated toolpath while the rotating end mill removes material from the MDF board.

Test1

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Test2

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Conclusion

During this week’s group assignment, we worked with a large CNC machine in our lab and learned the full workflow of CNC machining. First, we studied the safety measures required when operating a large CNC router, including proper machine operation and safe handling of tools and materials.

We explored the technical characteristics of the CNC machine and learned how it works. We also tested different cutting parameters and understood which milling tools should be used for specific materials. In our case, we selected a 10 mm MDF board and prepared it for machining.

After that, we designed our models on the computer using CAD software and generated the toolpaths required for CNC machining. Then we fixed the material on the machine bed and performed the cutting process using the CNC machine.

Through these experiments and tests, we gained practical experience in digital fabrication and learned how to safely and effectively use a large CNC machine for manufacturing parts.