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The history of machining: from manual to CNC, how did this revolution happen?
Machining is a manufacturing process that revolves around the controlled removal of raw materials, primarily metals. This type of machining is a form of subtractive manufacturing, as opposed to additive manufacturing (such as 3D printing), which creates objects by adding material. Machining plays a vital role in the production of many metal products, but it can also be applied to other materials such as wood, plastics, ceramics and composites. People who specialize in this trade are called craftsmen.
"Many modern machining operations use computer numerical control (CNC), which allows computers to control the movement and operation of milling machines, lathes and other cutting machines."
History and evolution of terminology
Over the past century and a half, the exact meaning of the term machining has changed as technology has advanced. In the 18th century, the term mechanic referred to someone who built or repaired machines, relying primarily on manual skills, using methods such as wood carving and hammering and hand-polishing of metals.
With the advent of mechanization in the mid-20th century, the terms "machine tool" and "machining" were coined to describe this changing process. At that time, the processes known as traditional machining included turning, drilling, milling, filing, etc. These traditional or conventional machining processes use machine tools, such as lathes and milling machines, that use sharp cutting tools to remove material to achieve the desired geometry.
Variety of machining operations
Machining can be divided into two categories: traditional machining and non-traditional machining. In traditional processing, it is usually further subdivided according to the shape of the processing. Circular processing includes turning, drilling, etc., while processing of various other shapes includes milling, sawing, etc.
"In conventional machining, cutting tools must be made of a harder material than the workpiece in order to remove material effectively."
The development of cutting tools
Cutting tools are designed with one or more sharp cutting edges and are made of a material that is harder than the workpiece material. The shape of these cutting edges, their relative movement and their penetration into the workpiece all affect the final machining results.
Technology and challenges of modern machining
Currently, many machining technologies have advanced to a whole new level compared to traditional manual machining. For example, non-traditional machining techniques such as electrical discharge machining (EDM) and water jet cutting are increasingly being used. These technologies provide support for the manufacturing of parts with complex shapes and high precision, making the application scope of machining more extensive.
"In production processing, usually several rough processings are completed first, and then one or two finishing processes are carried out to ensure the quality of the final product."
The relationship between subtractive and additive manufacturing technologies
Entering the 21st century, with the rise of additive manufacturing technology, subtractive manufacturing has gradually been redefined. Some scholars have begun to view traditional machining as part of subtractive manufacturing, a concept that is in sharp contrast to additive manufacturing. Although there is competition between these two technologies in some areas, in the context of the entire industry, the relationship between the two is actually complementary.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of technology, we can foresee that mechanical processing will become more intelligent and automated in the future. Although CNC technology has greatly improved the efficiency and accuracy of machining, we still need to face many challenges in the pursuit of perfection and continuous improvement. Furthermore, how to strike a balance between convenience, economic benefits and environmental protection will also be an important issue in the future.
As we continue to advance, will such changes continue to affect our understanding and application of machining?
