A machinist can perform subtractive manufacturing manually. In most cases, it is a very complex process that can use a CNC machine. It is a process that has been in use for a long period, and it has proven to be effective in the prototyping process and manufacturing of products. The product’s goal will determine if it is the right process you need.
Subtractive manufacturing is a process an artist uses to create a sculpture. The CNC programmer who acts as the artist uses a unique tool to curve metals into the desired shape. The technique used by an artist to design a specific shape depends on the client’s request. If you want to understand subtractive manufacturing, here is the article.
What’s Subtractive Manufacturing?
Subtractive manufacturing is appropriately named because it eliminates or removes materials to develop an end product. One of the ways of utilizing subtractive manufacturing uses a CNC machine (computer numerically controlled).
The process starts with a coarse slab or a material bar. The machinist then eliminates the excesses until it acquires the product’s final shape. You can imagine a rough block of material, which goes through a detailed curving to take a more detailed curving.
Machines and other manufacturing technologies can break down subtractive manufacturing. Universal machining utilizes three-axis cutting tools so that the block is not turned or flipped manually. Milling machines, drill presses, and conventional lathes produce basic geometric designs.
Unconventional machining is appropriate for working materials or producing complex and more intricate shapes. It uses several processes to eliminate excess materials. This process can utilize mechanical, thermal, electric, and chemical processes to style the block into the desired shape.
Subtractive Manufacturing Techniques
- Chemical etching; is also known as chemical milling or industrial etching. It is a subtractive process normally used in manufacturing. It entails spraying or immersion of metals with temperature-controlled chemicals to remove specific regions in the metal to end up with the desired thickness, shape, features, and intricate designs.
It helps manufacturers come up with metal parts even with more complex and intricate designs while attaining high repetition and continuous production quality.
- Abrading; this is a process of using abrasive to rub away or grind a material. Abrasives are compounds used to polish, grind, or sand material. They can either suspend in a liquid or remove from a material for shaping. Abrasives need to be stronger and harder than the material used for them to work effectively without failure.
- Water jet cutting; is a subtractive manufacturing machining design that uses a high-pressure water stream and abrasive substances to erode a very narrow cutting to come up with profiles, circles, and any other geometrics into a slim to thick flat material. This method is used to cut a wide range of materials, for example, plastic composites, foam, titanium, tool steel, and many other materials. This process involves cutting through holes, mainly 2D geometries.
Conclusion
Subtractive manufacturing helps us have a more detailed end product. It is, therefore, one of the very vital manufacturing techniques necessary to develop a more effective and desired product. Learn more by frequently visiting our websites
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