CNC Machining: The Choice of CNC Machining Tools

When programming, it is very important to select the CNC machining tool correctly. The general requirements for CNC machining tools are easy installation and adjustment, good rigidity, high precision, and good durability. There are many factors related to the working range of machine tools and CNC devices.

Factors Affecting NC Machining Tool Selection

When choosing the type and specification of the tool, the following factors are mainly considered:

1. The nature of production

The nature of production here refers to the batch size of CNC machining parts, and the impact on tool selection is mainly considered from the cost of CNC machining. For example, it may be cost-effective to use special tools in mass production, while standard tools are more suitable for single-piece or small batch CNC production.

2. Machine Type

The influence of the CNC machine used to complete the operation on the type of tool selected (drill, turning or milling). Under the condition that the rigidity of the workpiece system and the tool system can be guaranteed, high-productivity tools, such as high-speed cutting turning tools and large-feed turning tools, are allowed.

3. CNC Machining Scheme

Different CNC machining schemes can use different types of tools. For example, the CNC machining of holes can be performed by drilling and reaming drills, or by drilling and boring tools.

4. Size and Shape of CNC Machining Parts

The size and shape of CNC machined parts also affect the selection of tool types and specifications. For example, special tools should be used for CNC machining of special surfaces.

5. Surface Roughness of CNC Machining

The surface roughness of CNC machining affects the structural shape and cutting amount of the tool. For example, when rough milling the blank, a coarse-tooth milling cutter can be used, and a fine-toothed milling cutter is best used for fine milling.

6. CNC Machining Accuracy

The CNC machining accuracy affects the type and structural shape of the finishing tool. For example, the final CNC machining of the hole can be CNC machined with a drill, a reaming drill, a reamer or a boring tool according to the accuracy of the hole.

7. CNC Machining Parts Materials

The material of CNC machined parts will determine the choice of tool material and geometric parameters of the cutting part. The tool material is related to the CNC machining accuracy and material hardness of the workpiece.

Performance Requirements of CNC Machining Tools

Because CNC machine tools have the characteristics of high CNC machining accuracy, high machining efficiency, centralized processing procedures and fewer parts clamping times, higher requirements are put forward for the CNC machining tools used. In terms of tool performance, CNC tools should be higher than those used by ordinary machine tools.

When choosing CNC machining tools, first of all, standard tools should be preferred, and various high-efficiency composite tools and special special tools should be selected when necessary. When selecting standard CNC machining tools, various advanced tools, such as indexable tools, solid carbide tools, ceramic tools, etc., should be selected as far as possible according to the actual situation.

When choosing CNC machine tools to process tools, the following aspects should also be considered:

1. The type, specification and precision grade of CNC machining tools should be able to meet the requirements of CNC machining, and the material of the tool should be compatible with the material of the workpiece.

2. Good cutting performance. In order to adapt to the tool that can use a large amount of back cutting and high feed when roughing or machining CNC parts of difficult-to-machine materials, the tool should have the performance that can withstand high-speed cutting and strong cutting. At the same time, the same batch of tools must be stable in terms of cutting performance and tool life, so that the tool can be changed according to the tool life or the tool life can be managed by the CNC system.

3. High precision. In order to meet the requirements of high precision and automatic tool change of CNC machining, the tool must have high precision. For example, the radial dimensional accuracy of some integral end mills is as high as mm.

4. High reliability. In order to ensure that accidental tool damage and potential defects do not occur in CNC machining and affect the smooth progress of machining, it is required that the tool and the accessories combined with it must have good reliability and strong adaptability.

5. Durability