The most common CNC milling errors

The CNC milling machine works through axes that are moved and shape the blank according to the machine setting.

The CNC milling machine is able to recreate complex shapes with great precision, thanks to the ability to work on multiple sides of the material.

In this article we provide a list of factors to monitor carefully in order to reduce the margin of error during the preparation of the project and the processing of the object.

Here is a list of the main skills needed to ensure a high-quality result. 

Knowing the materials

First of all, it is important to know the materials and their composition. 

In fact, each material has technical characteristics that could affect processing.

Aspects such as hardness, strength, thickness, chemical composition and much more have great relevance. In fact, depending on the material to be processed, it is necessary to identify the right tool (there are different types of milling cutters) and correct parameters with which to set the machine.

In addition, in the case of metals, the presence of coolant could compromise the structure of the material. Therefore, knowing exactly the materials and their characteristics is useful to reduce errors in processing and possible damage to people or the machine.

If you are not sure of the composition of a material, it is possible that there are alternatives on the market that could be right for you and guarantee quality work.

We therefore recommend that you carefully consider the options and if you still have doubts, check with your supplier.

Choosing the right tool

The milling cutters are not all the same and must be chosen on the basis of the material to be milled and the type of processing.

There are several tools on the market to choose from based on modelling: milling cutters, spindles, drill bits, taps, etc.

To avoid malfunctions or production interruptions, carefully evaluate the most suitable tool. 

For example, the tool suitable for working hard metals will certainly be wrong for soft metals. In addition, the machining may require a different tool depending on the thickness of the material, especially when it comes to drilling.

Setting parameters correctly

CNC milling is an automated process, governed by a computer that adjusts the movements of the axes and modifies the workpiece.

Before starting the machine, it is good to make sure you know the necessary parameters to set on the machine, since the digital drawing is not enough to adjust all the machining variables. 

In fact, the CNC milling machine mainly deals with managing and monitoring the feed, rotation speed and number of spindle revolutions.

All these parameters must therefore be in line with the drawing of the file, the type of processing to be carried out and the characteristics of the material to be processed.

Treatment type

There are different types of processing (treatment).

In general, the choice is made on the basis of the material and the final use of the piece. 

In some cases, if you want to obtain a metal object whose main characteristic is hardness, the oxidation treatment may be more suitable than that of burnishing.

Therefore, to reduce the margin of error, it is good to ensure the final use of the part in production in order to achieve an efficient result.

Conclusions

In summary, to limit the possibilities of error and possible damage to people or property, it is important to have specific skills and technical knowledge.

Knowing the composition of the materials, the machine parameters to be set on the basis of these and the purpose of the object, can help you reduce errors, as well as save time and money.