When you think of manufacturing, one might imagine an environment taking record labor hours on repetitive, strenuous tasks. However, in today’s world, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining has revolutionized the industry. By using predefined computer commands, CNC machines perform complex operations with unparalleled efficiency and precision. In this article, we focus on how CNC machining contributes to the production of rivets and tack welding.
Rivets, common fasteners used widely in construction, aircraft, shipbuilding, and many more sectors, are made efficiently by CNC machinery. To understand how rivets are produced via CNC machining, let’s first break down what a CNC machine is and how it works.
Simply defined, CNC machining is a process used in the manufacturing sector that involves the use of computers to control machine tools such as lathes, mills, routers, and grinders. In the case of producing rivets, the entire workflow sequence from raw material selection to final product can be automated maximizing productivity and curtailing human error.
Raw bars of metal alloys suitable for the desired rivet application are loaded into the CNC machining center. Using precise computer instructions programmed by engineers or CNC operators, these bars get drilled, cut and shaped to form rivets of accurate dimensions.
The advanced programming capabilities facilitate the swift change over from making one size or type of rivet to another without stopping the production process, resulting in time efficiency. And with the ability to run 24/7, large quantities of high-quality rivets can be produced with minimum human intervention reducing labor cost drastically.
In addition to mechanical processes like drilling or cutting, certain types of rivets may involve other machining techniques. For instance, solid rivets often require head formation at one end, which requires special cold-heading procedures integrated within the CNC operation. Throughout all these steps, quality control measures are embedded to ensure each rivet meets the stipulated standard.
CNC machining is not limited to mechanical fasteners like rivets. It extends its significance to various other industrial applications; one of which worth highlighting is Tack Welding.
Tack welding, a quick and temporary weld that intends to hold parts together before finalizing with more significant welding, can also be effectively executed through CNC machines. The process requires the utmost accuracy ensuring uniform distribution of strength across each joint. Tech-savvy manufacturing companies nowadays leverage CNC-controlled robotic arms for tack welding. These arms programmed with 3D designs interrelate spatial information while maintaining absolute precision at high production speeds. Their ability to work on assembly lines help speed up large-scale projects significantly by tackling multiple points simultaneously.
From making simple tasks like drilling holes into a piece of metal to running intricate operations like tack-welding, CNC machining stands as a technology marvel in the field of manufacturing. Whether it’s producing high-quality rivets or conducting precise tack welding processes, the versatility, efficiency and preciseness provided by CNC machining make it an invaluable asset within modern production methods.
So next time you look at a plane or pass over a bridge held together with a myriad of rivets or welded joints, just remember the advanced CNC machinery that has likely played a crucial role in bringing all those components together.
