Proper CNC Machine Operation and Tolerances

Proper CNC machine operation and tolerances, boiled down, means controlling manufacturing costs and capital expenditures, keeping machine tools running efficiently, and producing parts exactly as designed. While the CNC machine is a precision tool that accomplishes the job, the engineers that input the design and instructions into the CNC machine must also be accurate as well as the individuals who run the machine.

CNC machine tolerances allow for accuracy of as much as 20 millionths in some instances, depending upon proper temperature control and good, clean working conditions. CNC machine tolerances depend upon the CNC machine that is or will be used to complete the ticket.

Need precise tolerances? That's one of the great advantages of CNC machining: The ability of high tolerances on a repetitive basis. Once the program specifications are input into the CNC machine, the machine is loaded with materials and the CNC machine (or the machines run if it is a nested-based configuration) runs until the work is completed. Tolerances of 0.00004" to 0.004" are possible because the machine is "computer numerical controlled." The computer-guided machine grinds, sands, cuts and more to the specification designated by the program.

High tolerances will vary from machine shop to machine shop due to the quality of the CNC machines. Some companies can offer tolerances of 0.001" while others won't have a CNC machine capable of this tolerance. Operators, programmers, engineers, machinists and the CNC machine all work in concert for the best possible production possible: If any of those variables is lacking, you'll not get the precision machining that you should have.

For the highest tolerances and the best precision machining in the industry, trust the fabrication experts at TigerTek. TigerTek has the flexibility to provide rapid turn-around at cost-saving prices. The skilled machinists can manufacture reproduction items; repair damaged parts and perform upgrades and modifications. The engineers in TigerTek's Greensboro machine shop can design parts, create blueprints as needed, custom fabricate and install the finished piece. TigerTek's machine shop is a fully equipped facility with lathes, milling machines, grinders, shot blasters, presses, and a complete range of precision measurement devices. TigerTek is also equipped with a spray metalizing division for your convenience.

For almost 30 years, TigerTek has provided expert machine shop services in Greensboro, NC - to find out more, contact us today.