CNC grinding uses an abrasive wheel, disc or belt to provide automated precision material removal and surface finish in a number of industrial and commercial applications. An acronym, CNC stands for computer numerical control, a system that utilizes advanced computer software to control the movements of grinders and sanders in order to ensure accurate and reproducible results.
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CNC grinding, a precision machining process, requires operators to have both an in-depth understanding of grinding mechanics as well as knowledge regarding the use of programming software. CNC machines are automated but require regular maintenance and supervision to ensure accuracy. This accuracy is needed to generate holes and contours or to improve surface quality. The vast capabilities of grinding make it popular in automotive, military, aerospace, metalworking, woodworking, medical, construction, surface preparation, cleaning, electronics and several other industries where both finished parts and material components are often finished in this way. Such varied use entails a plethora of grinding apparatus such as belt grinders, grinding wheels, backstand or benchstand grinders as well as angled grinders. CNC grinders may be bench or floor mounted depending on their size, and they can perform centerless grinding, creep feed grinding, internal and external grinding, jig grinding, thread grinding and surface grinding operations. CNC grinders are often relatively simple in design since many contain only one grinding wheel, though complex composite machines combining grinding and other machining processes are also available; some can house up to 400 interchangeable tooling apparatus.
As with other grinding tooling, CNC grinders are composed of a wheel, disc or belt that is coated or adhered to abrasive materials. The particular implement and covering required depend upon the materials to be processed. CNC services provide machining for any number of materials including metals, woods, plastics, glass and stone. No matter the material, CNC machining begins with a concept or design. Machinists work carefully with clients in creating a specific schematic through the use of computer assisted design (CAD), computer aided manufacturing (CAM) and other software such as photo imaging. The resulting measurements and dimensions are converted into a computerized language or code. When activated, the code instructs the behavior of the tooling, grinding disc or belt. Various passes of the grinder will result in the precise level of finishing required for a given part. CNC grinding is not only accurate, but also easily reproduced, allowing for the creation of identical precision parts produced in a fraction of the time that would be necessary in manual processes. Because grinders and sanders wear away the material surface, they often produce waste in powder or dust form, which may be harmful to workers and machinery. Machinery enclosures and dust collection systems are often utilized to promote workplace safety and comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. CNC machine shops should also follow International Organization for Standardization regulations ISO 9001:2000, ISO 13485:2003, ISO 14001 and ISO/TS 16848:2002, which relate to and define industry specific quality standards.
