In the world of machining, computer numerical control has long been the standard for machining. Utilizing a program to control the machining work versus manual control, software manages the execution of the instructions, and the tools respond with microcomputers receiving the instructions and applying the execution on the targeted material. The method of process is generally used on both metal and plastic, but it can be applied to other materials as well, within reason.

The key control is the programming. This is constructed in a specific computer language known as G-code. G-code tends to be the default language used but it is not a guarantee. There are other options available. Once the language is loaded into the control mechanism, usually a computer, then the specifications for the work are loaded as instructions. The program implements the instructions, and the connected tools apply the work. The instructions are so accurate and precise, the tools can be controlled down to millimeters of action as well as units of speed per second as well.

G-code or its equivalent is essential in translating directions from the design to the machine and tools applying the work. G-code instructions are defined by default for various motions and actions, with the degree of application defined by percentages. With a combination of defined steps and variations on each one, an extensive array of actions can be applied to a target material for machining.

M-codes, on the other hand, allow the CNC controller to switch instructions sets between tools and actions. These program scripts are not specific to position. Instead, they focus on providing the necessary directions on what tool to use, what direction, and what speed. This is a very different type of programming versus G-code above. However, both in tandem provide the overall programming package that controls the tools in a CNC system.

All types of equipment can be controlled via computer numerical control, or CNC. That can include, in a typical machine shop, grinders, lathes, milling machines, lasers, drills and routers. More advanced systems can also control far more sensitive tooling, such as welding and filament winding or fine-tuned assembly systems. Some of the most complex programming is run in auto assembly shops today, but the computers involved are extremely powerful and expensive.

On the design side of things, all the programming involves a lot of steps and sequences. To make this simpler and far more practical, machine shop designers utilize computer-aided design programs or CAD software. The CAD program then does the hard task of converting the entire design with all of its specifications to G-code which can be loaded into a CNC control terminal. It also makes adjustments to what is needed to achieve the specifications, particular to the material that the design will be applied to. Much of the details were developed over the years with a significant amount of research and trial and error.

A second key aspect of CNC control involves Cartesian coordinates. This concept is applied graphically and with math formulas to help plot positions and directions of the tools as the design is being implemented by the CNC program. The Cartesian coordinates are included in the CAD design and that translates to the various measurements from one point to the next as the computer applies height, width and depth to a particular action on a target.

As mentioned above, CNC management programming can be applied to numerous machine shop functions. Whether its milling, deep-hole drilling, lathing, routing and more, all of it can be done with exact precision, speed and application in a CNC environment. The capability of a CNC system becomes even more amazing with very fine, detailed metal work to exacting demands. While there is amazing work still performed by master artisans, the reality is the CNC approach is exceptionally better than most human work could apply in machining.

Evden Enterprises has been apply CNC systems from large unit production to extremely sensitive and delicate production via CNC machining for years. Our specialists are versed in all aspects of CNC design and application, especially as the programming is applied to various tooling systems for metal part and product fabrication. The results are proven in the project successes clients enjoy from Evden's work and continued support for assembly manufacturing and production. From fundamental 3-axle CNC machining to extremely detailed 7-axle and more CNC machining, Evden Enterprises has been an industry leader in customized part and material fabrication with machine shop applications.

CNC machining is not a breakthrough science in 2022. It's a technology that has been applied for decades. And because Evden Enterprises has been in the machine shop business during the entirety of its availability, we lead the field in experience and practical know-how, avoiding expensive mistakes that often happen with rushed work and too much reliance on automatics versus thinking through problems analytically. We are not so arrogant to that our operations are the best in CNC application, but we will definitely point out that Evden Enterprises is darn good at what we do with machining, and you won't be disappointed with our high-quality work.