Brief Introduction to Precision Machining

Machining generally refers to the process by which a raw material piece is cut and then turned into a desirable shape. This process is carried out under controlled conditions and with precision machining devices and tools like gear cutters, water jets and milling machines. This process comes under the subtractive manufacturing processes wherein the material is removed.

Industrial Revolution: When Machining gained momentum

The industrial revolution was the time when precision machining picked up the pace. Manufacturers employed the basic level technology to generate considerably precise parts. For instance, Victorians used precision machining technology to build weaponry and craft ships. Farming equipment was also made using primitive machining technology. Isambard Brunel was a mechanical engineer who utilized precision machining to build ships and railway back in the 19th century. Machining process has been an integral part of manufacturing for decades.

Processes involved

Set up cost for most of the machining processes is low as compared to that of molding, forming and casting. It makes machining an affordable and time-effective process. However, precision machining itself involves a number of sub-processes, two of which are mentioned below:

1. Roughing Cuts

Machining operations can be divided into two segments: the first one is called Roughing Cuts. The roughing operation is used to remove large amounts of material in a small amount of time. This is done to create geometry close to the shape you have in mind.

2. Finishing Cuts

Next phase of operations is the finishing cuts. This is usually performed after the roughing cuts operation and is used to achieve the final geometry and surface finish. Activities performed in the finishing phase include binding and decorative processes. The decorative process further includes embossing, die-stamping and laminating; whereas, binding is the fastening together of individual sheets. Finishing consists of two main processes: in-line and the offline-processes:

• In-line process

The in-line processes are those where the units are attached to the end of the printing press and they perform the finishing operations. This is typically the case with web presses as well as many digital presses.

• Off-line process

On the other hand, off-line processes are a bit different. They involve printing and finishing processes which are entirely separate.

Primitive technology has evolved into much more comprehensive algorithms, paving the way precision machining and other sophisticated manufacturing technologies such as 3D and artificial intelligence.

Trust experienced machining service for your business

If you are looking for machining services for your business, be sure to ask about the capabilities of different machine shops. The service provider should have a team of experts who acquire the equipment and necessary skills to handle everything, from the nitty-gritty of small-scale orders up to large scale ones.

Trust only the best when looking for precision machining services for your company. Reliable millwright and fabrication shops such as QMillwright specializes in machining, fabrication and other industrial millwright services. They have advanced machining equipment and tools and offer complete millwright solutions for any project with optimal results while saving cost and time. If you are based in Edmonton and require machining service, you can contact them.