CAD machining has evolved manufacturing processes. This process provides good design capabilities, efficient operations and accurate results. Today we’ll look at the basics of CAD machining, its industrial uses, benefits and the best CAD software available.
What is CAD Machining
CAD machining is the combination of computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) software to make precision parts on CNC machines. CAD software begin with generating detailed models. The models then go to CAM software to convert the models to specific machine directives. These directives are then used by CNC machines as guides to turn raw material into finished product with pin point accuracy.
Main Components of CAD Machining
In CAD machining there are usually three main components that work together. These are CAD software, CAM software and CNC machines.
CAD Software
Digital models of parts to be created are made with CAD software. New generation CAD software enable the creation of 2D and 3D designs with accurate specifications and dimensions. And through the parametric modeling and simulation tools in CAD software you can verify designs before actual production.
CAM Software
CAM software converts CAD designs into G-code instructions for CNC machines. The software also finds right cutting speeds, tool paths and feed rates. All these calculations help guarantee efficient component manufacturing.
CNC Machines
These are automated machines that use computer instructions (G-code) to create physical parts. There are many types of them from mills to routers to lathes. Every type performs different manufacturing actions. The control panel of these machines interprets the G code and guides the cutting tool movements on multiple axes to create desired part.
Complete CAD Machining Process
Step 1: Creation of CAD Model
First 2D or 3D designs are created using CAD software. These digital models must include all kinds of details including tolerances, features and dimensions. Once the design is complete it serves as a guide for subsequent manufacturing steps.
Step 2: CAD Model’s Conversion into CNC Program
In this step, CAM software processes the completed CAD model and generates G-code. This G-code guides the tool selection, cutting speed and movements of CNC machine’s parts. In addition this software also determines the most effective tool path to improve machine performance.
Step 3: Setting Up CNC Machine
After the G-code is generated the machine setup phase begins. In this stage technicians mount the workpiece, install the right cutting tools and make sure of correct tool alignment. Additional preparations include checking the coolant level, cleaning the machine and aligning the coordinate system of machine according to the reference points of CAD model.
Step 4: Running the CNC Program
Dry run is done first to detect possible collisions and ensure safe tool movement before making the actual product. After verification the CNC machines manufacture the part according to the G code. Machines maintain automatic control of tool changes, feed rate and cutting speeds throughout this production process.
Last Step: QC and Post-Processing
At this stage part’s surface finishing quality and its build accuracy are checked. They are then subjected to finishing operations or surface treatments like polishing to meet the specified design requirements.
Standard Formats for CAD files
There are three types of CAD files; each of which have their own use in the manufacturing process.
Native CAD File Formats
Native CAD formats are specific to certain CAD software platforms. These include CATPart for CATIA, SLDPRT for SolidWorks and IPT for Autodesk Inventor. All original design features are preserved and complete editing capabilities are available in these native formats.
Kernel CAD File Formats
These formats are derived from geometric modeling kernels such as Parasolid and ACIS. Software built on their corresponding kernels work best with them and they are outstanding at dealing with complex geometric data. Common examples are SAT files used for ACIS based systems and X_T files for Parasolid based platforms.
Neutral CAD File Formats
Data exchange between different CAD systems is possible in neutral formats. Most widely used neutral formats are IGES and STEP. Geometry, material properties and topology are supported by STEP files whereas IGES supports both 2D and 3D geometry with basic attributes.
Advantages of CAD in CNC Machining
- CAD-guided CNC machines provide extraordinary accuracy of part’s features within microns. And this accuracy reduces manufacturing defects and ensures uniform quality in mass production.
- CAD simulation tools find potential problems before production begins. This feature reduces manufacturing errors and allows you to determine better cutting paths that lessen material wastage.
- With CAD software you can create difficult geometries and complex parts that were not possible with traditional methods. And this digital environment also allows testing of multiple iterations before production and rapid design revisions.
- CAD systems require minimal reprogramming for design changes. So you can easily make design tweaks and fulfill particular production needs.
- Clients and teams can work together in real-time through cloud based CAD platform. This platform makes sharing of models and receiving feedback from clients quick. This speeds up project approvals which reduces production delays and also strengthens relationships with customers.
- Digital automation of CAD machining reduces human interventions and thus increase your manufacturing process’s speed. CAD files are transferred directly to CNC machines which reduce a lot of production time and allow machine to operate continuously with very few breaks.
Applications of CAD Machining
The advancement of CAD machining has changed manufacturing process in many industries including:
Construction & Architecture
CAD is used by architects to design parts of buildings and structural components. CAD also allows you to generate comprehensive models for prefabricated parts so that they can fit flawlessly on site. This cuts down material waste and increases construction efficiency.
Medical Parts Manufacturing
In the medical field CAD is used to design very precise surgical instrument, prosthetic and implants. It also enables the fabrication of custom-fit devices for individual patients. The accuracy of CAD is critical to the safety of medical devices.
Automotives
CAD machining is used by car manufacturers to make transmission components, engine parts, body panels, and many more. This technology allows for very precise designs of complicated parts like gearbox cases, cylinder blocks and pistons.
Mold Making
CAD technology enables designers to design complex mold geometries with high accuracy. This precision is critical to manufacturing repeatable & high quality parts in the metalworking and plastics industries
Aerospace Industry
Aerospace companies rely on CAD machining to create critical parts with tight tolerances. Structural panels, landing gear and turbine blades are made by this technology. This also lets simulate aerodynamic properties that are very important for aircraft performance. 777 aircraft from Boeing is the first passenger aircraft that is designed completely through CAD systems.
Prototyping
The prototyping process is streamlined by CAD. 3D models can be designed and modified quickly and then produced as physical prototypes by using CNC machines. This enables early identification and resolution of design problem which lessen overall development time and cost of end product.
Famous CAD Software
1. SOLIDWORKS
SOLIDWORKS is used by millions of product designers and engineers worldwide. It is a very powerful tool to make 3D models. It has strong features for the manufacturing of complicated assemblies and components. The software also has simulation tools which help test designs prior to actual production.
2. Siemens NX
Unigraphics which is now known as Siemens NX, is a high end CAD/CAE/CAM software suite. It is basically known for its abilities in multi axis machining and surface modeling.
3. Autodesk AutoCAD
One of the most used CAD software is AutoCAD. It gets used all over the world for 2D and 3D designing but particularly for 2D drafting. AutoCAD is very versatile and is used by multitude of industries from architecture to manufacturing.
4. Autodesk Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a cloud based platform which combines functionalities of CAE, CAD and CAM. It’s famous for its collaborative features and its user friendly interface.
5. Autodesk Inventor
Another Autodesk product devoted to 3D mechanical design and simulation is Inventor. In particular, it’s very strong at building complex assemblies and drawing up detailed engineering documentation.
6. CATIA
Dassault Systèmes developed CATIA which is a multi-platform 3D software suite. It is used broadly in those industries where complicated part design is demanded like automotive, aerospace, etc. It provides powerful tools for management of big assemblies and surface modeling.
To Sum Up
Modern manufacturing has been revolutionized by the automated production and digital design features of CAD machining. This technology combines advanced CNC machinery with powerful software to give extraordinary performance in the creation of very complicated parts. If you also want to manufacture precision parts with exact specifications contact us at Richconn and get their expert CAD services.
FAQs
What does a CAD machine do?
CAD machine is used to create digital 2D or 3D models of products. This enables the designer to visualize and modify its design before production.
Can CAD/CAM machines accommodate complicated geometries in product design?
Yes modern CAD/CAM systems can handle intricate designs and complicated shapes to produce sophisticated parts.
What is the relationship between CAD systems and CNC machines for real time adjustments?
CAD systems create G-code that CNC machines interpret to create physical parts. Furthermore some latest systems allow for in process modifications based on sensor feedback during CNC machining process.
Why is feature recognition important in CAD machining?
Particular design elements are identified by feature recognition. This makes toolpath creation automated and optimizes overall machining process.
How can we prepare CAD file for CNC machining?
First of all export your CAD file to a CNC compatible format such as IGES or STEP. Then take out any nonessential layers and make sure all dimensions are right.