Industries That Define CNC Precision-Engineering

Since the introduction of the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine back in the 1940’s by John T. Parson, they have been praised for being accurate, fast, consistent and flexible. Since then, we’ve come a long way with machines like our VTC-5-Axis and  Mazak Integrex i400. These machines are better, faster and capable of achieving unbelievable results. Technology really is advancing at an incredible rate.

Although CNC machines are not totally independent, a vast majority of major industries heavily depend on these wonder machines. Common CNC-dependent industries include the metal and woodworking industries.

Let’s find out which other industries are truly CNC-dependent; not as a result of their growth or size, but because they have to be. These industries mostly demand a low level of tolerance with a high level of sophistication and precision. This is exactly where CNC machining comes into the equation.

The Aerospace Industry

Already this is a very sophisticated industry where sometimes an engineering degree on its own won’t even get you a foot in the door. This industry sets extremely high standards and demands a lot from their members. So much so that machine shops belonging to this industry, only trust the best of the best.

The Aerospace industry already demands a lot and the materials they use don’t really make it any easier. CNC machines used here are capable of handling a wide array of materials, including but not limited to:

  • Aluminum
  • Glass
  • Inconel or Incoloy
  • Titanium
  • Magnesium
  • Stainless Steel

From parts of the landing gear, fire shield, panels, shuttle seats, to housings, and even oxygen systems, CNC machines play a pivotal part in the manufacturing process.

On top of all that, every CNC machine used in this industry has to be approved AND rated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). They have to declare the machines safe to use and truly capable of “Precision-Engineering”.

The Medical Industry

If the Aerospace Industry demanded precision above all, the Medical Industry demands sterility as much as precision. That’s something you may already know since you got your first vaccine. Most CNC machines here are multi-spindle and contain multi-turret lathes.

These special features allow for the production of components for hospital equipment related to surgical implants, orthotic devices and instruments. High-torque milling and turning spindles are in great demand within the medical industry.

One of the biggest challenges is small-scale machining or micromachining mainly because implants are often very small. CNC machines recommended for the medical industry are those which can properly handle Titanium (most widely used), Cobalt Chromium, Nitinol among others.

Defense and Military Industry

This industry’s main concern, aside from precision, is security. In fact, if you try to search online for CNC-manufactured materials or CNC precision-engineering in this industry, you will not find much. No matter how reputable, the manufacturer cannot display pictures of the materials they have produced; they can only display products which they are used in.

Most CNC machines in the Military sector must be able to handle these types of materials:

  • Inconel (nikel-chromium)
  • Titanium
  • Kevlar
  • Monel (nickel-copper alloy)
  • Hastealloy (super alloy)

Famous CNC standards regulators in this industry include the Department of Defense (DOD), the MilSpec (Military Specifications) and other selected military sectors.The top brass of these industries also demand that their CNC machines are obtained from CNC machine suppliers registered with the International Standards Organization (ISO).

PRV Engineering specialises in precision-engineering. We manufacture for an expanse of industries and provide a diverse range of products and services. The latest addition to our Plant List is another Mazak VTC800/30SR, which is a Vertical Travelling Column Machining Centre with full 5 Axis Synchronous Milling ability and a Large Machining Envelope enabling a wide variety of components to be manufactured.

Please get in touch for more information on CNC, Waterjet Cutting, Shot-blasting, Deep Hole Drilling and much more. We would like to hear from you any comments or stories about your CNC projects.