Class: CAM
They are reconfigurable, so they can quickly change settings to perform different
machining tasks on a piece.
The flexibility and versatility due to the high degree of automation makes them
capable of performing various machining operations in one piece.
Uniformity in production, which is important in mass production.
High production speed, since they perform a large number of operations
automatically on the piece.
Good surface finish, which makes them suitable to give final shape to the
manufactured parts.
A CNC tool machine differs from a conventional tool machine in the following aspects:
The operator can handle several CNC machines at the same time.
You do not need to consult just the plan.
The program has full control of the cutting parameters.
There is the possibility of practically any type of machining.
It has a high cost of machines, accessories and maintenance.
It is necessary to maintain large production volumes to amortize costs.
Electro-computer architecture with a machining center
A machining center has a structure very similar to classic computer systems, being able to
communicate with each other. Currently they can become part of a computer network.
Basically the following parts or structures are distinguished in the systems of the machining
centers:
Calculate the position of the axes and the displacements of the machine.
Control the different operating modes of the machine.
Input peripherals
They are all the elements that serve to supply the information to the CPU. Among the most
important are the following:
HDD.
RS232 connection with computer.
Output peripherals
They are all those elements that serve to receive the information supplied by the CPU.
Among the most important are:
RS232 communications.
Display.
Control of movement of the axes and other elements of the machine.
The monitor informs the operator of all the events that are taking place between the different
communication processes, both the input data and the output data.
Once the data has been processed by the CPU, the information is transmitted to the different
organs of the machine, so that it can be executed. This data does not send directly to the
machine but it does so through the PLC, also called a programmable automaton.
Special applications
Machining center