FAQ

What is a CNC Machine?

What is a CNC Machine?

A CNC (Computer Numeric Control) machine is a piece of equipment that’s controlled by a computer. The computer runs a carefully designed program that instructs the machine how to move. The instructions are normally translated into cutting instructions, which guide a component to be shaped against the cutting tool in a series of minute movements. Capable of enormous accuracy, it’s possible to work with CNC machines which are capable of moving the component under construction in 3-, 4-, or 5-axis directions. CNC machines offer many advantages over other forms of cutting – they can be used to shape extremely complex configurations and are very fast. We provide a selection of CNC machine options, enabling our clients in the Fox Cities and Green Bay area to get the results they want on a wide range of different jobs.

How to Use a CNC Machine

The majority of work involved in using a CNC machine comes from the programming required to instruct the movements of the component to be shaped. CNC machines are capable of shaping a wide range of materials, including wood, steel, stainless, plastic, bronze, and aluminum. Once the component is fixed in place, the machine can run autonomously, freeing operators up to work on other tasks. A CNC machine can be used to shape prototypes, or as part of a continuous production process. Ideal for creating components in large volumes, CNC machines are a cost-effective method of creating high-grade, accurately shaped parts suitable for some different industries.

What is a CNC Machine Shop?

What is a CNC Machine Shop?

At its most basic, a CNC machine shop is literally a place where CNC machining takes place. Normally an industrial complex of some sort, there may be one or more CNC machines located there. CNC machines are available in 3-, 4-, or 5-axis configurations. A machine shop may contain several of the same type of machine, or a variety. There is no upper limit to the number of machines that can be located in a machine shop – size and cost are normally the key variables that affect overall numbers.

How to Set Up a Machine Shop?

Obviously, it’s important to have suitable machines available, as well as the right premises in which to locate them and ensure they can operate safely and dependably. Because CNC programming and making sure that the machine runs properly is a skilled job, there is a need for a suitably qualified and experienced workforce to ensure smooth operation. The type of CNC machine that’s best for a machine shop depends on the type of work to be undertaken, budget and workforce expertise. Our machine shop houses 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC machines.

How to Find Machine Shop Work

Most businesses find that once they are established, they begin to build up a customer base that grows due to recommendations and repeat business. Many machine shops build long-term relationships with their clients, resulting in a continual flow of work. Targeted marketing may also be a productive source of fresh business, particularly in the early days of the business. By giving customers what they want at a price that’s right, most machine shops can to turn a profit in time.

What is a Drilling Operation?

What is a Drilling Operation?

Drilling involves the use of a drill bit to shape a material into a predetermined set of dimensions. Drills are used to cut holes into metal, wood, plastics and similar materials. Depending on the drill bit that’s used, it’s possible to create holes in extremely tough materials, often to a considerable depth. The exact dimensions of the hole can be altered simply by changing the drill bit. Most machine shops that have a drilling service can offer a wide selection of different hole positions, shapes, and sizes. The speed of drilling is influenced by the type of material being worked on, the dimensions of the hole to be created and the efficiency of the cooling process. Modern machines benefit from sophisticated cooling systems, enabling fast, accurate production.

What Are the Types of Drilling Machine?

Depending on what type of result is required, we can normally come up with a drill bit that will give you the outcome you’re looking for. The types of drilling machines that are commonly available include: lathes, drill presses, mills, machining centers, and turning centers. Common drilling processes performed on these types of machines include the use of step drills, core drills, hole saws, center drills, twist drills, counter sinks and counter bore tools. Each one provides a slightly different result. Our drilling machines can usually be fitted with an appropriate drill bit for your task, offering a versatile solution that can be tailored to your specific requirements. No matter where you want your holes to be located or what size or configuration you’re looking for, a high-grade drilling machine will usually be able to get the job done for you.

What is a Turning Machine?

What is a Turning Machine?

As the name suggests, a turning machine “turns” components on a lathe against a cutting tool, creating a cylindrical shape. Turning can be used to create a variety of different components; it’s a particularly popular choice for creating components which have grooves, holes, tapers, steps and similar features. Turning can be used on a variety of different materials and is used to make parts for a variety of industries. Common types of parts created by turning include shafts, rollers, flanges, hubs, bearing housings, and more. Turning machines can be operated manually or, more commonly, operated using CNC programming. CNC turning is a fast, accurate and cost-effective way of producing components in any volume. We provide CNC turning services across the Green Bay and Fox Cities area, offering a flexible, high-grade option for an enormous variety of components.

How Does a Turning Machine Work?

We have several CNC lathes that can be used for many different jobs. CNC lathes work by moving a piece of material against a cutting tool to create a pre-designed shape. The machine is operated by a computer that has been pre-programmed to take the lathe through the correct sequence of moves to make the component. Once the CNC programming has been set up, the process can take place automatically. CNC turning machines are capable of making high volumes of products in a short space of time, making them ideal for high-volume jobs where scheduling is a priority. Our custom shop has advanced turning machines that can give you the volume and quality of components you need for a highly advantageous price.