| By :
Nadine Davis
Copyright (c) 2010 Nadine Davis It would be presumptuous to assume that because new CNC technology such as 5 axis machining is now available, introducing this to the manufacturing process is enough to ensure success. There are a number of other components that contribute to a perfect result. A key component of a sound result is the consistency of process that a certified quality system provides. Although CNC milling machines operate automatically, they still require human involvement in job planning, materials purchasing and, of course, the actual programming of the machine. In all work processes, the more complex that the steps are between the idea and the end finished product, the more chance there is of something going wrong within the process. Managers, supervisors and workers simply cannot remember everything that needs to be done. Instructions are written down and used to train new employees. Simple processes that remain constant over time are often documented informally by individual operators. However, when looking through the prospective of a formal quality system, each work process is recorded in a manual which can be based on paper or electronically. Any changes or variations are specifically controlled in order for everyone needing to know having up to date information when they need it. This all takes place before any milling tool touches any metal or plastic stock material and is absolutely crucial to the final result. In quality certified companies, all aspects of the planning, materials purchasing and programming of the CNC machine that will create the product, has been checked against the original customer specifications and verified correct. The operator can commence the milling process, confident that every component that rolls off the line will be identical to the next and true to the original design. It is not enough to assume that because a product is being made using a CNC milling machine, that everything will go smoothly, there will be no mistakes, the order will be delivered on time and the product will be perfect. Before choosing a company to make a product, the prudent customer should check the quality systems ratings of the manufacturing companies being considered, and choose one with the capability of CNC included, but with a recognised quality system in place. An operator using a 5 axis machining process must not rely solely on the program but check it against a quality system. This will help in the reduction of possible defects and will create a high confidence assurance in products being manufactured through CNC, along with other processes being used.
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