In the manufacturing industry, precision is key. One of the most vital processes in this field is known as Computer Numeric Control (CNC) turning, a machine automation process that creates detailed participants with intense accuracy. Alongside it, rivets – fasteners used to hold materials together – also play an unremitting role in assembly tasks. This article seeks to delve deeper into these two areas of interest.
CNC Turning Explained
CNC Turning involves a cutting tool which shapes various materials including metal, wood, plastic amongst others whilst they rotate on their axis. The parts are designed using software and then programmed into the CNC machine. After this step, the machine automatically carves and shapes the raw material into the desired part without further human intervention. This high level of mechanization affords remarkable precision and consistency, making suitable for large production volumes where uniformity is required for each unit produced.
There are several types of CNC lathes depending on the complexity of work in line. However, the main types include multi-axis machines such as 5-axis, 7-axis and even 9-axis lathe machines. These provide a higher degree of shaping flexibility thus permitting producing more complicated designs accurately.
Rivets and Their Types
As we come across from CNC turning and machining, let’s turn our focus towards rivets – tiny yet powerful elements in construction world. In essence, a rivet is a permanent mechanical fastener. Prior to being installed, it consists of a smooth cylindrical shaft with a head on one end. The other end is drawn out or upset by hammering once inserted through assembled parts.
Let’s examine some broad categories of rivets:
1. Solid/ Round Head Rivets
This is considered as one of the oldest and most reliable type of rivet. Its durability makes them ideal for structural works like bridge building and aircraft assembly. To install this kind of rivet you need access to both sides of the structure.
2. Semi-tubular Rivets
These are partially hollow and require lesser force than solid rivets during installation. They are commonly used in the auto, leather, and electronic industries.
3. Blind Rivets
Blind rivets, also known as pop rivets, are useful when the installer only has access to one side of the structure. A tool provides force pulling the mandrel causing the inner body of the rivet to deform creating a tight seal.
4. Drive Rivets
They consist of a short, hollow shaft topped with a wide flat head. Installation is simple, no special tool is necessary except something sturdy to strike the head and send the shaft into the pre-drilled hole.
From Designing to Producing 
The creation of rivets through CNC turning begins with designing the shape and size of the rivet based on its intended usage. The design specs are entered into the CNC program, setting up for mass-scale production. Then a suitable metal rod placed inside the lathe machine will be spun at high speeds while simultaneously being cut into the programmed shape.
Just imagine, your house, cars, bridges, and multiple everyday objects are made possible by concepts conveyed in CNC turning and different types of rivets. It’s safe to say that effective CNC turning can yield better results overall in terms of precision of product and speed of manufacturing. Both these practices- CNC Turning and riveting have revolutionized our modern day machinery and continue to do so as innovation persists within these spheres.
