Computer numerical control (CNC) turning lies at the heart of modern manufacturing processes. Its implications are far-reaching, from producing complex geometric parts to ensuring precise repeatability in large-volume production runs. Among its many functions, CNC turning plays a crucial role in producing one of the most common fasteners – rivets.
Rivets have been a key component in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and shipbuilding for centuries. The process of creating different types of rivets, whether it’s the pop, solid, or tubular rivet, can be easily understood by unfolding the meticulous CNC turning process.
Understanding CNC Turning
The CNC turning method is a part of the broader spectrum of subtractive manufacturing tactics, wherein material is removed from a workpiece through various machining activities until the desired shape is achieved. In this case, a cylindrical rod of metal is spun on its axis while tools ‘turn’ away excess material to create a predefined geometry.
This intricate process depends heavily upon computer-controlled machinery, lending itself the name Computer Numerical Control (CNC). Aided by CAD/CAM software systems that execute G-code instructions, CNC machines ensure unprecedented precision, accuracy, speed, and repeatable outcomes.
Creating Rivets with CNC Turning
Lasering our focus onto rivets – these are essentially permanent mechanical fasteners which, even after being installed, would remain a part of the assembly indefinitely. Depending on their application requirement, different kinds of rivets are made using CNC turning:
1. Solid Rivets: Historically, solid rivets were extensively used in aircraft bodies owing to their sturdiness. To produce them via CNC turning, CAD data delineates the necessary diameter and length before the machine commences burrowing away unnecessary material to present the final product.
2. Pop Rivets (Blind Rivets): These are extensively used in situations where only one side of the workpiece is accessible. The creation of pop rivets involves multiple pieces – a soft, hollow shaft and a solid mandrel that helps to ‘pop’ or set the finished piece in place.
3. Tubular Rivets: These are similar to solid rivets but have a hole at the end opposite the head, which significantly reduces weight without compromising on strength. CNC turning comes handy for creating this type with absolute preciseness.
4. Semi-tubular Rivets: Less axial force requirement during installation sets semi-tubular rivets apart. Being easier to manipulate, they find applications in automotives, electronics, and toys manufacturing.
5. Structural Rivets: While structurally more substantial than standard blind rivets, these can withstand high load capacities, making them ideal for construction projects and heavy machinery. Their intricacy requires the precision offered by CNC turning.
6. Drive Rivets: Preferred for quick installations without specialised tooling, drive rivets necessitate bespoke shaping for their functionality, something achievable through CNC turning accuracy.
Over time, advancement in CNC machining has welcomed other types of rivets like Oscar, Tri-fold (exploding), Flush and Friction-Lock. Modern technology has even allowed some variations to be created using plastic. Regardless of type, GI software converts into specific G-code instructions, tailored per rivet’s specifications, ensuring seamless production via CNC turning machines.
In conclusion, CNC Turning brings excellent precision and efficiency to the table when producing various kinds of hardware, including rivets. Its versatility caters well to different industrial needs, whether it’s constructing aircraft bodies, automotive components, or large-scale shipbuilding units. Hence, as technological advancements surge fore, our reliance on processes like CNC turning will further augment, rendering previously laborious tasks efficaciously powerful.
