About Our CNC MIlling Machine
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC mills use computer controls to cut different materials including aluminum, wood, and acrylic plastic blocks. They are able to translate programs consisting of specific number and letters to move the spindle to various locations and depths. They use NC code, which is a standardized programming language that most CNC machines understand.
The CNC mill works by clamping stock in on the table. The table can move in two directions (x-direction and y-direction) while the tool spins and moves into the part (z-direction). All CNC milling machines have 3 axes, but some have a fourth to allow working into the side of the stock on other angles. |
CAM software is usually utilized when programing CNC machines. CAM stands for Computer Aided Manufacturing. CAM software is used to take a designed part on the computer and generate "toolpaths" and other important information, including feed rate, spindle speed, the tool it's using, the coordinate locations of the part and its features, and more.
We have a Haas 3-axis CNC milling machine that is programmed with NC code. We can hand-code programs into the machine, or we can use the Visual Quick Code feature which shows basic features in an easy-to-edit window. We also have a computer program called Mastercam, where it is possible to create the program in an in-depth and visual manner. |