From Drawing to Finished Product: A Complete Breakdown of CNC Machining Process, Avoid 80% of Pitfalls for Beginners

1. Process 1: Drawing Analysis and Process Planning - Avoid "Blind Start"

1. Prioritize marking key tolerances (e.g., ±0.01mm precision surface) to distinguish "must-ensure items" from "optimizable items";
2. Audit with DFM principles: change "closed slots" to "open slots" to reduce tool interference risks;
3. Plan processing sequence: follow "roughing first, finishing later; surface first, hole later" to avoid damaging precision surfaces in subsequent processing.

2. Process 2: Programming and Simulation - Eliminate "Code Landmines"

1. Use CAD/CAM software to generate programs automatically, enable the syntax check function to identify missing parameters;
2. Mandatory simulation verification: predict collision and overcutting risks by simulating tool paths, a workshop reduced tool collision rate by 90% with this method;
3. Clarify coordinate systems: distinguish between machine zero and workpiece zero, and check if the origin setting matches after programming.

3. Process 3: Tool and Fixture Selection - Avoid "Matching Traps"

1. Tool matching principle: use carbide alloy tools for aluminum and coated tools for stainless steel to ensure hardness adaptation;
2. Fixture anti-loosening design: use custom fixtures for special-shaped parts and positioning pins for ordinary parts to prevent workpiece deviation during processing;
3. Post-installation inspection: the tool extension length should not exceed 5 times the diameter to avoid vibration-induced errors.

4. Process 4: Machine Calibration and Tool Setting - Strictly Control "Precision Benchmark"

1. Mandatory calibration after startup: check the positioning accuracy of each axis weekly, and recalibrate the coordinate system after tool replacement;
2. Precision tool setting: use an automatic tool setter first, and recheck manually twice to control the error within 0.005mm;
3. Record parameters: archive tool setting values and coordinate system offsets to avoid missing settings during shift changes.

5. Process 5: Trial Cutting and Parameter Adjustment - Avoid "Batch Rework"

1. First-piece trial cutting: inspect dimensions and surface quality immediately after processing one piece to confirm compliance with requirements;
2. Optimize cutting parameters: adjust based on trial results - the feed rate can be set to 1000mm/min for aluminum parts and reduced to 300mm/min for stainless steel to avoid problems caused by improper parameters;
3. Monitor tool status: observe abnormal noise and vibration during trial cutting, and replace worn tools in time.

6. Process 6: Finished Product Inspection and Equipment Maintenance - Hold the "Final Line of Defense"

1. Inspection focus: use a micrometer to measure key dimensions and a surface roughness tester to check processed surfaces to ensure tolerance compliance;
2. Immediate cleaning: clean the workbench and spindle after processing to remove chips and oil stains;
3. Daily maintenance: check the lubricating oil level daily and replace filters weekly to extend equipment life.