Industry

Computer Numerical Control refers to a programmed code. The code represents instructions that control the precise movements conducted by machines or parts, such asCNC machine milling parts. The code controls how virtual objects can get automatically transformed into physical ones. In this post, we discuss essential terms used in CNC technology, in particular, CNC milling.

What is CNC machining?

CNC machining is a computer-centric and high-precision production or manufacturing technic. The term CNC is an abbreviation for Computerized Numerically Controlled.

In this method of manufacturing, the machines or tools used are controlled through computer programming. Doing so provides them with high precision. The tools get controlled using various axes, usually between 3 to 6, depending on the machine’s type and brand.

Other than 3D printing, CNC machining is the only other technology that allows makers or engineers to produce a physical part by designing a model using a computer. The model is known as a CAD model.

However, unlike 3D printing, CNC machining is a subtractive method of production. This means that raw material is placed on the machine table, and small chunks get eliminated to produce desired results. It is worth noting that this production method got first established between the late 1940s and the early 1950s. There are several types of CNC machining services, one of which is CNC milling.

What is CNC milling?

This process uses rotating and multi-function cutting mechanisms to remove materials or pieces from a workpiece.

What is a CNC milling machine?

Milling is the process of cutting or drilling through the material to come up with a pre-determined part or design. As mentioned earlier, CNC milling is a type of CNC machining technology. Therefore, a CNC milling machine is an automated cutting device whose tools or parts are controlled using a computer through programming. Like a regular milling machine, this device cuts and drills into a material like wood or metal to form a part.

The difference between a standard mill and CNC mills is that the latter uses automated and programmed instructions within a computer. Therefore, it provides more precision, better ability to perform repeated tasks, faster production, and better product quality. Another benefit of CNC milling machines is that they can cut in different angles since the cutters move in various axes. This is only possible through CNC technology.

What is a Computer-Aided Design (CAD)?

CAD is a type of program that allows you to digitally design a product or parts you want to produce physically. The virtual part can get produced through milling or 3D printing. It uses G-Code.

What is G-Code?

G-code refers to the code language that is applied when programming the CAD. The G-code instructs the CNC machine on how to transform the virtual product into an actual one.

Conclusion

The terms mentioned above are only the primary terminology used in CNC machining or CNC milling technology. They are meant to give you a starting point. However, you may want to look into several other terms and processes if you want to better understand CNC technology.

Plasma metal cutting machine dates back to the 1960s. It is a high-tech process that ionized gas with very high velocity to cut through electrically conductive materials such as metal sheets, aluminum, stainless steel, brass, copper, nickel, etc. The ionized gas is also known as plasma. This is after all, what the machine uses as a source of heat.

Unlike oxy-fuel cutting which cuts through metal by burning or oxidizing it, plasma cutting is not reliant on oxidation and can be used on non-ferrous materials that are usually resistant to the oxy-fuel method. The plasma cutting method is very precise and has a relatively higher velocity compared to other methods of cutting metal.

As a result of its efficiency and low cost, plasma cutting is widely used across industries ranging from industrial CNC applications to small shops where their materials are often welded. A plasma cutting machine can cut through thin metals and metals as thick as 3’’. They are widely recognized for their quality, velocity, and versatility.

The process

The plasma cutting process is a thermal cutting process. The gas is heated up to a temperature above 20,000°C which forms an electric arc between the workpiece and an electrode. The electrode is securely placed in a gas nozzle cooled by air or water which contracts the arc to form a narrow, accelerated, high-temperature stream of plasma.

As a result of ion recombination, immediately the plasma jet strikes the workpiece heat is transferred which causes the gas to return to its initial state. The metal is melted by the transferred heat and the stream of gas blows away the molten material through the cut. All through the process, the surface surrounding the area being cut stays cool. As the plasma cutting machine travels along the surface, a neat, linear cut with little or no slag is produced.

Plasma cutting machine can be used in industries such as automotive repair and maintenance, shipyard manufacturing, construction sites, fabrication, etc.

Advantages of plasma cutting machine

• Safety

Plasma cutting machine is very safe to use especially since it uses inert gases that are not flammable thus getting rid of the risk of fire hazards associated with gas cutting procedures.

• Increased cutting speed/velocity

Plasma cutting machines do not just cut material effectively but quickly as well. They require less than the time often used by other cutting methods.

• Minimal slag or dross

Slag or dross on the material is commonly associated with materials cut with oxyfuels. This problem is eliminated when the plasma cutting machine is used. It leaves no little or no slag on material after they are cut.

• Precision

Plasma cutting machines are widely known for their precision. They can be used to draw curves, multiple cuts that are intersected by a precise beam.

• Versatility and compatibility

The plasma cutting machine is very versatile and can be used on a wide range of materials such as aluminum, copper, steel, titanium, nickel, iron, sheet metal, brass, etc.

• Cost-effective

Plasma cutting machine is very economical and cost-effective. It requires low maintenance and it is less expensive than other forms of cutting machines water-jet or laser cutting.

Conclusion

Plasma cutting machines are not only compatible and versatile, they are quite portable and would give one value for their money.

The art of metal cutting can get grouped into two-that is mechanical and thermal. Plasma cutting, however, can be categorized into thermal cutting via the famous BaoKun plasma cutting machine. The process uses ionized gas to cut through metal. Besides, this is the most widely used method to cut through sheets or thick metal plates.

Defining Plasma Cutting and Its uses in Various Industries

Plasma is the fourth state of matter from the three commonly known solid, liquids, and gases. Plasma can be found in nature but majorly on the upper part of the earth’s atmosphere. The lighting and high fire temperature are included in the plasma, so are our bodies. Plasma makes 99% of what can be seen in the universe.

Plasma is related to gas since the atoms are not touching each other. Gases can be changed to plasma through high temperatures. The reason why plasma is referred to as ionized gas is that it can flow freely like liquids when put through an electric and magnetic field. A plasma cutter uses electrically conductive gas to conduct energy to conductive material from the power supply resulting in a cleaner cutting process.

Components of Plasma System

Power supply- the supply converts three-phase line voltage to a smooth DV voltage from 200-400VDC. DC voltage helps maintain the plasma during the cut. It can also regulate the output required with the material type or thickness for processing.

a. How Does It Work?

Plasma cutting involves a thermal cutting. This is using heat to melt metal instead of cutting it mechanically.

The plasma cutters use other gases like nitrogen or compressed air. To create plasma, ionization of these gases has to occur.

When the compressed gases contact the electrode, they ionize to build pressure, and plasma is pushed to the cutting front.

Consequently, the cutting tip compresses the flow and creates a flow of plasma. This is put through the workpiece.

Plasma is electrically conductive when the workpiece has been connected through a cutting table from the ground.

Similarly, when plasma comes in contact with the metal, it melts at high temperatures. Eventually, the high-speed gases push off the molten metal.

b. The cutting process

This method requires high voltage and frequency spark. The spark creation occurs when the plasma torch comes in contact with the metal. This process blocks the circuit, which causes a spark, thus creating the plasma.

A pilot arc is a second method. Here, a spark is created in the torch through high voltage and low circuit currents. The spark subsequently creates a pilot arc with tiny amounts of plasma.

Alternatively, using spring-loaded plasma can be used by squeezing the torch on the workpiece to create a short circuit that will enable the current flow. Releasing pressure also establishes a pilot arc.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the different cutting methods is determined by the materials used. Either the thickness or the application parts used. The best cutting thickness is 15-50mm. Lastly, laser cutting can also be used for thin plates for good quality and speed.

A tek screw is also called self-drilling screws or self-tapping fasteners. At the end of its tip, a carving is found there known as a drill. It is used to create a small hole on a surface before the whole screw gets driven into the very surface. Most of them are designed for metal to metal applications, but there’s one made specifically for wood to metal known as ReanerTek screw. In this write-up, we look at the basics of a tek screw.

The Basics of a Tek Screw

1. How are Tek Screws Used?

The screws have many capabilities and are used in any wok that would benefit from them. They are used in construction to join two metals such as steel, aluminium, copper, or to join wood and metal. They are very common in the electrical industry and work with steel studs and thin metal applications. You drill it into the material while being guided by the drill points, depending on the material’s thickness. The drill points range from 1-5. An electric screwdriver or a drill is necessary to drive the screws in.

2. What are the Benefits of Tek Screws?

a. Saves Time

You don’t need to pre-drill a hole to use it. Some screws require you to create a pilot hole that will guide you in driving it, which may take more time. With tek screws, you place it directly on the spot you prefer then a hole is created by the drill bit. This saves a lot of time and reduces the steps needed to complete some projects.

b. Durability

The crews remain in good condition even in extreme weather. You can use them on many projects, and they still look perfect. This extends their life span and serves you for a long time.

c. Non-Corrosive

The material used to make the screws does not rust. The most common material used is stainless steel, and it’s not affected by any environmental condition.

d. No Mess Made

Since there’s no pilot hole drilling, no shavings are produced; therefore, it is easy to clean up afterward. Creating the hole first produces dust and dirt, which adds to the work that has to be done.

3. What Type of Tek Screws are Available?

There are many tek screw options available for purchase. They come in various types and sizes. The tip’s size identifies the screws, and its length depends on the thickness of the material being drilled. The head style category includes screws such as flathead, wafer head, hex washer head, pan head, trim head, and many more.

4. What to Consider Before Buying the Tek Screw

It would help if you considered the following.

• The head style
• The thickness of the screw required, i.e., 6,8, 10, 12, 14
• The length of the screw depending on the thickness of the material
• How does the tip of the screw look like? Its purpose
• The material of the screw; zinc plated, stainless steel, copper
• The number of screws needed

Conclusion

Tek screws come in handy in various applications and have significant advantages. They are easy to use and require minimal effort and time. You can check out more on screws and know which other types are available.

The relevance of a walk-behind concrete planer cannot possibly be overestimated. The typical concrete planer also known as concrete scarifiers or concrete floor planers, is essential in the modification or repairing of already laid down concrete surfaces.

Concrete planers are needed when a modification needs to be made to an already laid down concrete surface. It is also needed when a repair needs to be carried out which will require chipping away some parts of the already existing concrete floor. Getting a concrete planer could be somewhat challenging, but not impossible. The best walk behind concrete planer is just a single delivery order away.

 This is to say that if cracks or any other type of surface damage is already occurring on these concrete floors a concrete planer would be needed if proper damage repairs to be done. The concrete planer is also seen by some as a finishing tool which is essential in grinding and proper leveling of concrete floors.

This process is indispensable as it is aimed at giving the concrete surface some level of shine and smoothness. At least, as smooth as concrete could be. The best walk behind concrete planer is so easy to use that there are various DIY videos concerning the use and handling of this planer.

What is Walk-behind Concrete Planers?

The conflict plane is also known as surface planers or concrete scarifiers function or work buy seemingly chipping away at concrete surfaces.

This “chipping ” action is needed especially when repairs are to be carried out. concrete once laid down is relatively difficult to alter. This is one of the benefits of concrete in construction, its durability. However, this advantage could seem like a disadvantage if modification is to be carried out.

Concrete planers or scarifiers make it easier to alter concrete floors. Although they would need to chip away some portion of the concrete for the modification process or repair to begin, the “damage” they cause is largely limited. 

The most recent walk behind concrete planers can be handled by just about any adult. All one needs to do is have a basic understanding of how the concrete planer works. There are various DIY or do-it-yourself videos available online.

JIEHE Walk-behind Concrete Planers

JIEHE walk behind concrete planers has been tried and tested with time. They have proven to be the most versatile and optimal machines in the preparation of concrete. This includes other damaged surfaces for either repair and/or modification.

The fact that they are known as concrete planers does not mean that their use is restricted to concrete floors and finishes only. JIEHE walk behind concrete planers could also be used in the removal of metal coatings and finishes. These machines are proven to be better than their counterparts in terms of efficiency. They also have a reliable rate of job completion. 

 Conclusion

JIEHE walk behind concrete planers are products of JIEHE machinery. This company has been in the construction industry for many years and its products and machinery have withstood the test of time. they are currently among the leaders in the manufacture of the best walk behind concrete planers today.