History of CNC Machining

Introduction 

 

Walking through the empire of industrial sectors gets you jaw-dropping facts. Hundreds of machines work under one control system and continuously produce quality products. This accuracy in precisions kneels to the CNC machines, which have been undefeated for decades. Over time, CNC machining has provided manufacturers with enhanced efficiency and fast production. Today, we will discuss the history of CNC machining(machines), what they are, and how they can help improve factory productivity. 

 

What is CNC machining?

A CNC machine is the heart of cutting-edge manufacturing technology, allowing better control of the tools. In actuality, it is the combination of computers with manufacturing tools. Technicians define the rules for the production of products or prototypes. Machines follow the instructions coded by the programmers and ensure output.

 

How is 100% accuracy possible then? Technicians can govern the production process since everything is controlled on the computer. If something goes wrong, they can correct the coding and improve efficiency. The exceptional efficiency of the machine-controlled systems boosts confidence during the production processes and brings new life to the manufacturing process.

 

Thanks to its high efficiency, it is reigning the complex production process. For example, the aerospace industries or car production factories integrate modern manufacturing and ensure fast and efficient production.

 

Where did the CNC machining originate?

 

CNC machining dates back to World War II, when production processes were at their peak. Governments needed fast production with proper sampling to ensure the tools’ 100% efficiency.

 

At that time, CNC machining introduced a new wave of production, wiping out traditional methods. In the 21st century, almost all factories use CNC machines to increase their production processes.

 

Who invented the first CNC machine?

If you are wondering about the father of CNC machining, John T. Parson is considered its founder. 

 

But two pioneers of the CNC machines include:

• John T. Parsons is the father of CNC machines. He provided the concepts of numerical control. He developed the first CNC tool with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The goal was to produce helicopter blades. Later, it caught fire and emerged as a big technology. Parsons also received awards for the introduction of CNC machines.
• Frank L. Stulen. If you credit Parsons, don’t forget Stulen. He has played an undeniable role in CNC machining. Based on Parsons’ idea, he provided the concept of CNC machines. Stulen also developed the prototype of the CNC machine.

 

Kudos to both experts who provided detailed notions of CNC machining. The first CNC machine for the aerospace industry was produced with their efforts. Nowadays, almost all industries use it because it provides flawless support in manufacturing.

 

Evolution of CNC machine

 

Are you curious to know how CNC machines have developed over time? Let’s start from the very beginning and conclude our discussion with a look at the 21st century.

 

1940s: The Beginning

 

It is the period when all the chaos for the CNC machines started. John T. Persons brainstormed the idea of numerical control of the machines. His request to the beginning of revolution ultimately bore fruit. He was able to conceptualize the first numerical control, too.

 

Since it was a period of evolution, companies started to adopt this thinking. The sudden shift to automation and efficient production flared up this idea. Many more companies started to think about CNC machining.

 

Late 1940s: Time for Experiments

 

Traditional technology was still enough until the CNC machines changed the whole scenario. Two experts, Parson and Stulen, conducted the first experiment to produce helicopter blades.

 

Their day-and-night struggle actually created the first prototype. High efficiency and precision in the helicopter blades produced flawless blades.

 

It was the first time experts felt confident about the future of automation with enhanced work efficiency.

 

1950s: Services of MIT

 

With the combined efforts of both engineers, this numerical control idea gained momentum. The US Air Force knew the technology’s potential and soon started working on it. The collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) significantly pushed CNC machining processes.

 

The US Air Force backed this collaboration. The goal was to automate the production processes and minimize errors. This was achieved with the first CNC machine.

 

1952: Production of the first CNC machine

 

After years of effort, engineers produced the first CNC machine. The first milling machine provided decent control through computers and automated production.

 

The showcase of high efficiency attracted tons of business people and urged them to implement this technology.

 

1950s: Punch Tape Technology

 

Punch tape technology has paved pathways for CNC machines. It comprises a long sheet of paper written with detailed instructions. Experts make a punch hole in the sheets and go through the whole code. They can feed it to control the CNC machines efficiently.

 

Punch Tape Technology provided a way to code CNC machines. Control and accuracy have boosted its real-life applications.

 

1950s: Commercialization Begins

 

CNC machines were introduced in the late 1950s. The shift in manufacturing technology urged their implementation.

 

Giddings & Lewis Machine Tool Co introduced CNC machining to the factories, and its commercial availability defined new pathways. With this technology, factories can better control their machines.

 

1960s: Introduction of Computer Control

 

Have you ever been to the factories these days? Earlier, the engineers introduced numerical control. Later, computer control paved the pathway for better technology.

 

In the 1960s, factories rapidly developed computer technology.

 

1967: First CNC milling machine

 

The first milling machine, introduced in 1967, marked the era of CNC machines. Advanced programming and effective technology offered the best control on all machines. Multiple axes and timely control further boosted the technology.

 

1970s: Microprocessors and Cost Reduction 

 

Since the beginning of CNC technology, the costs have been much higher. Do you know why? Higher demands and less production. Moreover, the production costs of such machines were also high. However, the microprocessor ended up revising the costs. It cut down the expenses and shot up the demands.

 

1980s: Graphical User Interfaces

 

Advanced computer graphics were necessary over time. In the 1980s, technology improved further, and engineers added enhanced graphics. In the 21st century, you can expect better changes in the user interface.

 

1980s: Introduction of CAD/CAM

 

CAD and CAM technology is the revolution. Its beginning was in the 1980s, but it is still changing the production game. The recent improvements in the 21st century have allowed FAST production. Moreover, the 3D design preparation facilities are beyond imagination. Now, AI technology has gripped the production processes even better. Technicians can control the whole production on a single screen and deploy machine learning to improve efficiency.

 

Why is CNC machining technology so popular?

CNC machines are the talk of the town. Such emergence is beyond words. This is possible due to the tons of benefits that CNC machining provides.

 

Let’s talk about them!

 

• Precision 

 

CNC machines are pretty impactful. They offer better control of the tools. All you have to do is to code the instructions. Tell the machine about how and when to do the work. In case of error or decreased efficiency, you can also improve the instructions.

 

The proper definition of work provides precision. The output is 100% accurate and error-free. Moreover, there are no risks of human error.

 

• High-efficiency 

 

CNC machines follow computer commands. Automation technology can define the production time for one prototype. You can produce tons of samples at such a speed without delaying or making errors.

 

Compared to manual methods, it offers a pretty high speed.

 

• Better Control

 

Define the rules, control the machines, and tell the production details. Nothing is very tough. Technicians gain better control over production. You can also redefine the same process. It attains the highest levels of monitoring and productivity.

 

• Flexibility 

 

Do you want to change the production rules? Rewrite them and tell the computers. Control the machines according to your rules. Such a flexible environment paves new roads for production.

 

• Access to intricate designs

 

Traditional methods can’t design complex textures, and they are more prone to errors. But this is not a big deal for CNC machining technology. Build your 2D or 3D design on the computer, and ask the machines to prepare the same prototype design. The final output astonishes users with its accurate details.

 

• Scalability 

 

If your business is expanding, augment it with CNC machines. You can update your systems and improve the technology. Scale up or down your business without a second thought.

 

• Safety

 

CNC machines keep the workers safe. Machines work without relying on humans. Even if the processes stop, you can prevent injury by defining the safety rules.

 

• Reduced production costs

 

CNC machines are a one-time investment. At first, you might think it is expensive. But a high production rate can amp up your profits. In the long run, it is a worthy deal.

 

Conclusion

 

Deployment of their own CNC machine systems can empty your pockets. Develop a cost-saving strategy. Explore the top CNC machining suppliers that can build better prototypes.

 

Do you need top-notch CNC machining factories? Here it is— AIXI hardware! Our precise CNC machining services provide you with timely, comprehensive facilities for prototype production. Go for the milling, turning, or casting tasks without compromising the quality. Take the opportunity right away!