How to Learn CNC Machining – Effective Tips for Becoming a CNC Programmer | CNCLATHING

In the CNC manufacturing industry, if you want to become a CNC expert, not only the engineers’ theoretical knowledge are needed, but also you should have the practical experience and hands-on ability of senior technicians. How to learn CNC machining? Here are some effective tips and tricks for becoming a CNC programmer.

How Do I Become a CNC Programmer – CNC Machining Learning Methods for Beginners

If you just graduated from high schools, it should take several years for you to become a expert of CNC machine programming. Then how to get started and make progress in learning CNC machining?
1. Become a qualified technician
CNC machine tool integrates turning, drilling, milling, boring, reaming, tapping and other processes. There is a high demand for the technical literacy of the technicians. The CNC machine programming is the process of using computer language to reflect the technology. Processing is the basis of programming. You should reach certain technical level and requirements, and be familiar with the following knowledge:
1)Structure and process characteristics of drilling, milling, boring, grinding and planing machines
2)Properties of materials to be machined
3)Solid basic knowledge of tool theory, conventional cutting parameters, etc.
4)The process specification, standard and general requirements of various techniques of the CNC machining company, and the process route of conventional parts. Reasonable material consumption and man hour quota, etc.
5)A certain amount of standard data of cutting tools, machine tools and machinery. Especially the tool system for computer numerical control.
6)Selection and maintenance of coolant.
7)Relevant process types. For example: casting, electrical processing, heat treatment, etc.
8)Assembly requirements and use requirements of processed parts.
9)Basis of measurement technology and fixture.

2. Be proficient in CNC programming and software
Choose the best CNC software based on your actual situation, auto-programming software or manual programming, tips for selecting a good software:

1) It is easy to understand and organized.

2) The fewer instructions in a program section, the better, choose simplicity, practicality and reliability. Understand instructions from a programming perspective.

3) Easy to adjust. When the machining accuracy of parts needs to be adjusted, it is better not to change the program. For example, if the tool is worn, you can adjust it by changing the length and radius in the tool offset table.

4) Easy to operate. The program should be compiled according to the operation characteristics of the machine tool, which is conducive to observation, inspection, measurement, safety, etc.

3. Capable to operate CNC machines
The keys for learning CNC machine operation is practice, which may take 1-2 years. You need to master systematic operation method, the installation of the fixture, the alignment of the part benchmark, the tool alignment, the setting of zero offset and tool length compensation, the radius compensation, the loading and unloading of the tool and tool handle, the measurement of CNC machining part (including skillfully use the vernier caliper, the micrometer card, the dial indicator, the dial indicator, the inner diameter lever gauge, etc.). The horizontal machining center can present the operation level. In addition, the fixture design and modification are also much important aspect.

4. Familiar with CNC machine and its maintenance
Mastering CNC machine tools means learning:
1) CNC electrical components and control principle, name and function of each component of the electrical box, electrical schematic diagram, electrical alarm number.
2) The structure and transmission principle of the ball screw and the factors affecting the accuracy of the machine tool.
3) Lubrication system of machine tool (bearing, main shaft, each moving pair, gearbox, etc.), distribution of lubrication points, brand and normal consumption of lubricating oil
4) Cooling system cutting cooling, spindle cooling, electric box cooling, and transmission structure
5) Characteristics and rigidity of machine tool guide rail
6) Various accuracy (static and dynamic) indexes and testing methods of machine tools
7) Tool magazine mechanism and tool changing principle
8) Common operation troubleshooting

How to maintain the CNC machine?
1) Check out the if the starting load changes normally of each axis of the machine tool before starting the machine each day, if not, stop the machine and check immediately.

2) Check out whether the normal consumption of lubricating oil is too much or too little.

3) Clean the air conditioning filter screen and vent filter screen of the electric box frequently.

5. Develop good habits
Learning CNC machining and programming is a long process, patience and persistence are necessary to the success. In addition, you should:
1) Consider the problem carefully and comprehensively
2) When there are difficulties you can’t solve, try to consult experienced technicians.
3) Start up after fully knowing the running track of the machine tool
4) Calm down in case of problems during debugging and processing to avoid misoperation again
5) When the parts debugging is failed for many times, analyze in a systematic way.
6) Continuous learning of advanced and new CNC machining technology