Screw Machining
These machines are powered by motors that are usually powered by electricity and can vary in horsepower in accordance with the size of the machine, the desired speed and the composition of the part to be machined. Screw machining is relatively fast and cost-effective due in part to the use of multiple spindles that allow more than one screw to be worked at a time. Use of a software program called a computer numerical control (abbreviated as CNC) allows specific depths and dimensions to be achieved with precision. Automated tools perform the machining processes of cutting the metallic material into the desired geometry, minimizing the possibility of human error and mistakes. Because screws and other similar threaded parts are common fasteners, screw machining is an important process that is constantly in demand. Industries that benefit from screw machining services include automotive, electronics, petroleum, defense, commercial, aerospace, marine and construction.
Screw machines are fundamentally a variety of lathe, though they are often seen as two individual pieces of equipment. They operate in the same way. A round, square or hexagonal blank is attached to spring collets on the equipment's holding spindles, and the blank, or workpiece, begins to spin. Multiple automated cutting, drilling, notching and knurling tools attached to the machine apply the appropriate amount of pressure to mechanically cut away material. These cutting tools are called tool bits and drill bits. Screw machines are multi-spindled, enabling the machining of several parts simultaneously while achieving high production rates. For this reason, long runs are typically most cost effective. However, since many screw machines are CNC, they require a lengthy set-up process involving CAD design and system programming. After the part takes shape it is smoothed and given a finish. For screws and parts that must be made to exact specifications, precision turning may be used to produce highly detailed and accurate results. The use of computer software also maintains the general integrity of machined parts. Using CNC turning also has the benefit of requiring very little finishing to remove rough edges or blemishes, but some post-production work may be necessary to meet safety regulations.
