Tony
Specialize in CNC machining,Sheet Metal Fabrication, 3D printing(MJF,SLA,SLM,SLS), Casting, Forging, Aluminum Extrusion, Etc
All you need to know about CNC machine shops is here.Top 11 tips about CNC machining shop.
Abstract:When I mention “CNC machine shop,” you might think we are a CNC machining ‘store ’selling CNC equipment. If I use different terms like “CNC machining workshop,” “CNC workshop,” or “CNC machining manufacturer,” you would quickly understand that we are a CNC manufacturing facility. In the following text, I will provide detailed information and considerations about the workshop and share tips on how to choose a local CNC machine shop. Let’s start the introduction to a CNC machine shop!
Definition: What is CNC Machine Shop?
A CNC Machining workshop is the place where Skilled machinists operate these machines to perform processes such as turning, milling, carving, cutting, drilling, punching, grinding, welding, 3D printing, and electrical discharge machining to transform raw materials into finished products.
The scope of a CNC machining workshop can vary widely, ranging from a home workshop primarily used for production to a dedicated section within a large standalone factory, such as the robotic automation equipment workshop in a Tesla manufacturing facility. CNC machining workshops are typically separate and designated areas specifically used for production with specialized equipment. Sometimes they may be connected to a warehouse or other workshops, forming a larger facility that includes components such as material storage, production areas, packaging areas, etc.
A CNC machining shop is a place equipped with a computer numerical control (CNC) machine. These machines are automated and capable of executing various machining operations with precision and efficiency. A typical CNC machining shop includes a range of CNC machines such as CNC milling machines, lathes, routers, grinders, and so on.
The main purpose of a CNC machining shop is to produce custom parts based on specific designs or specifications provided by customers. The CNC machines in the workshop are controlled by computer programs that dictate the movements and operations of the tools. This allows for highly precise and repeatable machining processes.
CNC machining shops offer a wide range of machining services, including cutting, drilling, milling, turning, grinding, and more.These shops often cater to aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical, and other sectors requiring precision-manufactured components.
In addition to a CNC machine, a CNC machining shop may also have other supporting equipment such as measuring instruments, inspection devices, and CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software. This enables the shop to ensure quality control and meet specific customer requirements.
What is the Brief History of CNC Machine Shop?
In the 19th century, the earliest CNC machining workshops originated from traditional machine shops. During that time, equipment components were manually manufactured and assembled. With the continuous development of industry, factories established their own workshops and upgraded and improved their equipment.
The rise of the Second Industrial Revolution lowered the cost of steel production and improved the affordability of machine tools. As factories became electrified and large-scale production lines emerged, CNC machining workshops gradually became metal processing and assembly centers.
Entering the 20th century, electric motors provided power for machine tools, strengthening people’s awareness of environmental protection. Therefore, material recycling and waste management became integral parts of sustainable development in CNC machining workshops.
It was not until the second half of the 20th century that the application of numerical control and computer control drove the development of a new generation of CNC machining workshops, enabling comprehensive automation in production. Quality control and inspection no longer required manual intervention but were performed by digital instruments. The development of information technology combined with machine tool integration promoted the advancement of computer-integrated manufacturing, with CAD/CAM software fully integrated into the control systems of machine tools.
With the continuous advancement of industrialization, the introduction of robots further improved the level of automation in factory workshops. Tasks such as robot welding, painting, and assembly could be accomplished by robots. Modern CNC machining workshops have implemented robots to enhance production efficiency and reduce costs. However, for small-scale CNC machining workshops, these tasks are still performed manually.
What Does a CNC Machine Shop Do?
In the previous text, we discussed the concept of a CNC machining workshop. In the following text, we will briefly talk about what we use workshops for.
A CNC machining workshop is a place for the machinists to show their skills. They skillfully operate CNC machining machines such as lathes, milling machines, and CNC machining centers, utilizing these diverse tools to shape various materials like stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and more into the desired products. It is where design concepts and ideas are transformed into reality.
A CNC machining shop is a place where mechanical engineers and other technical personnel discuss design and production processes, communicate technical challenges, and solve technical problems.
A CNC machining shop is where the ISO quality management system is implemented and upheld.
A CNC machining shop is a one-stop service provider that integrates all processes, including material intake, inspection, machining, packaging, and shipping.
A CNC machining shop is a place where automated robotic arms are employed for machining tasks.
A CNC machining shop is the facility for maintenance and after-sales support, where any necessary rework on defective products is conducted. They can use CNC machines to add new features, repair damaged parts, or create replacement parts that are no longer available.
A CNC machining shop is a place for manufacturing custom parts: CNC machine shops can produce custom parts for various industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical equipment, and consumer goods. They can manufacture complex parts with high precision and strict tolerances that are difficult or impossible to produce manually.
A CNC machining shop is not only a place for part fabrication but also involves product assembly. After completing the machining of multiple components, the assembly is carried out according to the blueprint.
A CNC Machining Shop can also be used for training and educational purposes. They can serve as venues for skill training, where specific crafts, techniques, and operational skills are taught. Additionally, workshops can be utilized for practical courses in educational institutions and schools, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in actual operations and manufacturing processes.
A CNC machining shop is also crucial space for innovation and research & development (R&D). Within the workshop, we engage in the design, prototyping, and testing of new products. By utilizing the equipment and tools available in the workshop, we can conduct experiments, validate ideas, improve product designs, and prepare for market launch.
What Does the CNC Machine Shop Consist of?
The composition of a machine shop is generally determined based on factors such as the type of production and the technological characteristics of the products. The composition can vary depending on the type of workshop. Generally, a machine shop consists of two main parts:
Production Department:
The production department is responsible for manufacturing the product components. It includes different machines, tools, fixtures, etc. This department is the main part of the workshop, and some workshops may also have component assembly sections.
Auxiliary Department:
The auxiliary department refers to the departments and work areas in the workshop that provide support services for production but are not directly involved in the manufacturing of product components. It typically includes the tool department, maintenance department, warehouse department, cutting fluid distribution department, and workshop management department.
The tool department includes areas for tool distribution, fixture storage, abrasive storage, calibration stations, tool fixture repair stations, and tool sharpening.
The maintenance department consists of intermediate repair services and repair stations for specific types of maintenance work.
The warehouse department includes various warehouses necessary to ensure the smooth operation of production. The size of the warehouses depends on the type of production.
The cutting fluid distribution department is responsible for supplying the workshop with various oils and cutting fluids required for the tools and machines.
The workshop management department includes offices, technical rooms, and data rooms for administrative and technical tasks.
The establishment of auxiliary departments in a workshop depends on the product type and the need for standardized management. For workshops with large-scale and mass production, there is a requirement for detailed and specialized auxiliary work. In contrast, for workshops engaged in small-batch production or small-scale operations, the auxiliary departments may be smaller in size.
The CNC machining workshop comprises numerous components, primarily including the following.
CNC machines
In a CNC workshop, the main equipment is the CNC Machine, which is an automated device equipped with a control system. It uses cutting tools to process and remove material, forming various shaped products.There are the machines such as Swiss Lathe, CNC 3-axis, 4-axis,5 axis Machines, CNC turning machines, Laser Printing Machine, 3D printers,etc., Different types of CNC machines may be used for different parts, such as milling, turning, grinding, drilling, cutting, or threading, etc.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software: Before a part can be produced on a CNC machine, it must be designed using CAD software. This software allows engineers and designers to create digital models of the parts they want to produce, which can then be used to generate machine code for the CNC machines.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) typically refers to the use of computer software applications for creating detailed instructions (G-code) for numerical control (NC) machines. This code tells the machines how to move and operate their cutting tools to produce the desired parts.
Cutting tools
Cutting tools encompass various tools such as blades, grinding tools, and abrasives used to remove excess material from workpieces or blanks, resulting in the desired geometric shape. Common cutting tools used in CNC machine tools include milling cutters, drill bits, taps, reamers, turning tools, and broaches.
Workholding devices
To hold the parts being produced, work-holding devices such as chucks, collets, vises, and fixtures are used. These devices must be carefully designed to ensure that the parts being produced are held securely and accurately.
Inspection and measurement equipment
Once a part has been produced, it must be inspected and measured to ensure that it meets the required specifications. Inspection instruments such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, project meters, Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), and pneumatic measuring instruments are used to measure the dimensional tolerance limits of the product.
Skilled personnel
Finally, a CNC machine shop requires skilled personnel who are able to operate and program the machines, design parts and fixtures, and perform quality control checks. These individuals are critical to ensuring that the parts produced meet the required specifications and are of high quality.
How Many Types of Shops are there in CNC Machine Shops?
In the previous discussion, we mentioned that “shop” is a broad concept, and through further segmentation, we can divide the shop into different workshop types, such as CNC milling shops, CNC cutting shops, 5-axis CNC machine shops, large CNC machining shop, precision CNC machine shop, CNC lathe shop, Swiss lathe machine shop, CNC turning shop, etc. These names are used because factories divide different equipment into specific areas and set up different shops. Therefore, each workshop has a different name. In the following text, let’s discuss the equipment in different workshops.
CNC milling workshop:
A CNC milling workshop is a facility where CNC milling machines or CNC machining centers are used for the production and machining of milling operations. It is specifically dedicated to the production of precision components and parts. It utilizes computer numerical control (CNC) technology to remove material using cutting tools and create the desired shapes and dimensions. The CNC milling workshop is equipped with various tools, tool holders, and fixtures to accommodate different milling operations and materials. Machinists can perform a variety of milling operations suitable for different materials and geometries. CNC milling machines offer high precision, repeatability, and versatility, allowing for the processing of complex components and improved production efficiency.
5-axis CNC machine workshops
This workshop primarily uses 5-axis machining centers. However, other machining centers such as the 3-axis and 4-axis may also be present. Traditional machining centers are generally three-axis, with X, Y, and Z axes. 5-axis machining centers add a rotary axis and a swivel axis to the basic three axes. The rotary axis can be A-axis or B or C-axis (the axes that rotate around X, Y, and Z are called A-axis, B-axis, and C-axis, respectively). The rotary axis can rotate 360 degrees, while the swivel axis, which is one of the remaining two axes (such as B or C), can only swing within a certain angle range (e.g., ±90 degrees) and cannot rotate 360 degrees. In summary, the five axes of a 5-axis machining center are generally XYZAB or XYZAC, or XYZBC.
A CNC turning workshop focuses on CNC turning operations and is used for the production of precision components. The primary equipment used is CNC lathes or turning centers, which rotate the workpiece using cutting tools to remove material and create the desired shapes and dimensions. Machinists use CNC lathes to perform various turning operations suitable for different materials and industries. The workshop is equipped with a variety of cutting tools and fixtures to accommodate different turning operations and materials. The advantages include high precision, repeatability, and efficiency, allowing for the processing of complex geometries, tight tolerances, and excellent surface finishes. Lathes are used to cut various sizes, shapes, and rotating surfaces, as well as helical surfaces.
CNC cutting workshop
CNC cutting refers to the cutting machines controlled by CNC systems, such as flame cutters, plasma cutters, laser cutters, and water jet cutters. CNC cutting involves using optimized nesting and cutting programs provided by CNC cutting nesting software to achieve full-time, automatic, efficient, high-quality, and high-utilization cutting.
Large CNC machining workshop
This machining center mainly produces large parts, and it refers to large CNC gantry machining centers with a gantry width of 3.2 meters.
Precision CNC machine workshop
Precision machining refers to machining with an accuracy of 10 to 0.1 micrometers and a surface roughness of less than 0.1 micrometers. Common machining methods include diamond turning, diamond boring, honing, grinding, ultra-precision machining, belt grinding, and mirror polishing.
CNC Grinding Workshop
A CNC grinding workshop is a facility dedicated to precision grinding operations. It utilizes computer numerical control (CNC) systems to automate the grinding process, achieving high precision and efficiency in machining.
In a CNC grinding workshop, skilled machinists use CNC grinding machines to perform grinding operations, utilizing rotating grinding wheels to remove material from the workpiece surface and achieve precise shapes, dimensions, and surface quality.
The CNC grinding workshop is equipped with various types of CNC grinding machines to accommodate different materials and machining requirements. The CNC systems can accurately control the movement trajectory, rotational speed, and feed rate of the grinding wheel, ensuring consistency and high quality in the grinding process.
CNC grinding workshops serve various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and mold manufacturing, especially for the machining of parts that require high precision and complex shapes. They can grind various workpieces including shafts, gears, holes, and surface profiles. CNC grinding workshops often provide services such as prototype design, batch production, and customized solutions to meet specific customer needs.
CNC boring machine
CNC Boring Machine is specifically designed for precision boring operations. It is controlled by a computer and enables high precision and efficiency in machining workpieces.
In a CNC boring machine workshop, machinists operate CNC boring machines to precisely machine the internal diameters of workpiece holes using rotating cutting tools, achieving the required size and shape.
In the CNC boring machine workshop, various types of CNC boring machines are available to process different materials and sizes. The CNC system can accurately control the tool’s movement trajectory, speed, and feed rate, ensuring consistency and high quality in the boring process.
In the CNC boring machine workshop, CNC boring machines are used to machine precise bores and complex internal structures of components. They can bore various workpieces, including shaft holes, sliding bearing seats, and cylinder bores. CNC boring machine workshops often provide services such as prototype design, batch production, and customized solutions to meet specific customer needs.
Honing machine
A honing machine is a grinding machine that uses honing heads to perform precision surface finishing on workpieces. It is mainly used in the manufacturing industry of automobiles, tractors, hydraulic components, bearings, aviation, etc., for honing holes in workpieces. Honing machines can be vertical or horizontal.
CNC Swiss Lathe Machining Workshop Link to CNC Swiss lathe machining service)
A Swiss lathe machining workshop focuses on precision turning operations using Swiss lathes. Swiss lathes are well-suited for producing small and complex parts, featuring a sliding headstock and guide bushing that provide stability and accuracy. Swiss lathes are capable of turning, threading, slotting, and milling small-sized workpieces, specializing in the production of high-precision and smooth small-scale products.
CNC Turning-Milling Workshop Link to CNC turning-milling service
A turn-mill composite workshop is equipped with turn-mill composite machines, which combine turning and milling operations into a single device. In the CNC lathe and milling machine workshop, machinists analyze the tool path of the product and then debug it using the CNC turn-mill machine. The workpiece is machined simultaneously through turning and milling operations. As the cutting tool removes material, the workpiece is rotated to create the desired shapes and dimensions.
Another CNC machine workshop:
CNC drilling machine: CNC Drilling Machine is primarily used for drilling, reaming, tapping, and other hole machining operations. It is a digitally controlled machine tool primarily designed for hole processing with drilling as the main operation.It is more powerful and stable than a handheld drilling machine and can be used for various manufacturing tasks.
CNC boring machine:One method of mechanical machining using a boring tool on a CNC boring machine is CNC boring and milling. CNC boring and milling mainly involve flat milling, and contour milling, as well as drilling, reaming, countersinking, boring, tapping, and thread machining of the workpiece.
CNC punching machine: Also known as a numerical control punching machine, it is an automated machine tool equipped with a programmable control system. The control system can logically process programs specified by control codes or other symbolic instructions and decode them to initiate the punching machine’s actions and process the parts.
EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) machine: Electrical discharge machining (EDM) refers to a specialized machining method that utilizes electrical and thermal energy to generate pulsed electrical discharges in a specific medium between the tool and the workpiece. These discharges create localized, momentary high temperatures, gradually eroding the metal material. The process is called electrical discharge machining due to the visible sparks generated during the discharges. It is widely used in the manufacturing of metal molds and mechanical equipment. It is also known as electrical discharge machining or EDM.
Electrochemical machining (ECM): A method of machining metal materials using electrochemical reactions (or electrochemical corrosion).Unlike CNC machining, electrochemical machining (ECM) is a specialized machining method that utilizes the principle of electrochemical anodic dissolution of metal in an electrolyte to shape the workpiece. It is capable of processing materials of any hardness. Common electrochemical machining methods include electrochemical machining, electro-grinding, electrochemical polishing, electroplating, electrochemical etching, and electrolytic refining.
3D printer: We usually called it 3D printing or additive manufacturing, it is a technology that constructs objects layer by layer using digital model files as a basis and adhesive materials such as powdered metal or plastic.
Laser marking machine: Laser marking technology is one of the major applications of laser processing. It uses high-energy-density lasers to locally irradiate the workpiece, causing vaporization or color change reactions on the surface layer materials, leaving a permanent mark. Laser marking can create various characters, symbols, patterns, etc., with character sizes ranging from millimeters to micrometers, which is particularly significant for product anti-counterfeiting.
Surface processing tools: Various equipment is used for grinding, polishing, sandblasting, and coloring as most parts require some form of surface treatment.
Sandblasting machine: A sandblasting machine is a device that uses compressed air as power to create a high-speed jet to propel abrasive materials (such as glass beads, steel shot, steel grit, quartz sand, garnet, iron sand, or sea sand) onto the surface of the workpiece to be treated. Its main purpose is to impact the surface of the object through high-speed abrasive particle projection, achieving the removal of surface dirt, oxide layers, scratches, coatings, and rust.
Vibratory finishing machine: Through the action of the vibratory motor rotating at high speed and the effect of the spring, the grinding stones, water, and grinding fluid in the grinding groove undergo regular relative motion with the processed parts. This results in the removal of burrs or oxide layers protruding from the surface of the parts, as well as the rounding of sharp corners and polishing.
Ultrasonic cleaning machine: Ultrasonic cleaning utilizes the cavitation, acceleration, and direct flow effects of ultrasonic waves in a liquid to directly or indirectly act on the liquid and dirt. This disperses, emulsifies, and removes the dirt layer, achieving the purpose of cleaning. Currently used ultrasonic cleaning machines mostly apply the cavitation effect and direct flow effect.
Polishing machine:A polishing machine is an electric tool used for the processing and modification of the surface of workpieces through the use of flexible polishing tools and abrasive particles or other polishing media. The working principle involves the high-speed rotation of a sponge or wool polishing pad driven by an electric motor. The polishing pad and polishing compound work together to create friction with the surface to remove paint contaminants, oxide layers, and shallow scratches.
Inspection equipment
Coordinate measuring machine (CMM): A Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) refers to an instrument capable of measuring geometric shapes, lengths, and circularity within the spatial range of a hexahedron. CMMs are helpful in ensuring accuracy and quality.
3D projector: A device used for 3D projection, which allows for the visualization of objects in three dimensions.
3D scanner: A device used to capture the three-dimensional shape and structure of an object, creating a digital representation of the object.
Vernier caliper: A measuring instrument with a scale and a sliding jaw used to measure dimensions with high precision.
Micrometer caliper: Also known as a micrometer, it is a measuring instrument used for precise measurement of small distances or thicknesses.
Thread gauge: A tool used to measure the pitch or size of threads on screws or bolts.
Go-No Go Gages: A measuring instrument used to determine the depth of holes, slots, or other features in a workpiece.
How is the CNC Machine Shop Layout
The layout of the Mechanical Machining Workshop
Division and Layout of the Mechanical Machining Workshop
In order to determine the positions of production sections (lines), auxiliary departments, main passageways, and entrances in the workshop, a zoning diagram is prepared before the layout of equipment. The layout of production departments should conform to the flow of production processes, aiming to minimize the distance products travel during machining. The layout of auxiliary departments should facilitate their service to the production departments. For example, the tool room in the machining workshop should be located in a convenient place for workers to access tools and be close to the grinding room. The arrangement of aisles in the workshop should consider the needs of material transportation and safety, and the sides of the main aisles should have clear markings.
The following principles should be followed when formulating the workshop zoning:
Principle of minimum transport distance: The workshop zoning should minimize the distance for material transportation and flow during the production process.
Process principle: Equipment should be arranged according to the sequence of production processes to determine the positions of various departments.
Space utilization principle: When arranging the workshop, attention should be given to effective space utilization, and measures such as basements or platforms can be taken to save floor space for facilities and departments.
Principle of convenience and safety for workers’ work: Ensure that workers can work conveniently and safely.
Principle of future development and flexibility for adjustments.
The workshop zoning diagram is generally drawn to a scale of 1:200 or 1:400. The zoning diagram should indicate the sizes, positions, and names of production departments, auxiliary departments, utility departments, workshop facilities, and offices. It should also show the main passageways, various lifting and transportation equipment, and the flow direction of major production processes.
Principles of Workshop Equipment Layout Design
Based on the principles of workshop zoning and logistics analysis, the design of workshop equipment layout is generally guided by the following principles:
Principle of process specialization
Organize production units based on process specialization. By concentrating on similar processes and assembly methods, the following advantages can be achieved:
Flexibility in the manufacturing sequence of products, enabling quick adaptation to changes in product variety.
Efficient utilization of equipment and production area. If a specific equipment malfunctions or requires maintenance, it has a minimal impact on the entire production process. Increased equipment utilization leads to reduced investment costs and lower production costs.
Facilitation of specialized technical management and guidance, contributing to the development of technical expertise, improvement of workers’ skills, and increased labor productivity.
However, process-specialized production units cannot independently complete all machining tasks for a product (part). Each product must pass through multiple production units before completion, which has the following drawbacks:
Longer transportation routes during the production process, lead to increased transportation costs.
Longer production cycles for products, resulting in tied-up working capital.
The need for strong coordination between production units, making planning, quality control, and product matching complex.
Process specialization is suitable for small-scale production and small-batch production.
Principle of object specialization
Object specialization involves setting up production units based on products (components). Within object-specialized production units, various types of production equipment and workers with different skills required for manufacturing the product are concentrated. Each production unit can independently complete most or all of the process for the product without assistance from other units. This approach is commonly used in workshops such as engine workshops or chassis workshops in automobile manufacturing plants.Organizing production units according to the specialization of objects has the following advantages:
Significantly shortens the transportation routes of products during the production process, saving various transportation costs and reducing the occupation of warehouses and production areas.
Reduces the waiting and idle time of products during the production process, improves the continuity of the production process, shortens the production cycle, and saves working capital.
Facilitates the timely, quality-oriented, and quantity-oriented completion of production tasks.
Facilitates the adoption of advanced production organization forms, such as assembly lines, production lines, and group processing.
Reduces the coordination and collaboration between workshops, simplifying management tasks and procedures.
The disadvantages are as follows:
Poor adaptability to changes in product varieties.
High equipment investment costs and low utilization rates. The failure of a single piece of equipment can affect the entire production line.
Not conducive to specialized guidance and management of processes.
Overall, organizing production units according to the specialization of objects is a production organization form with many advantages and good economic benefits. It is suitable for enterprises with a defined professional direction, stable production structure, varieties, and output, complete matching of labor and equipment, and large-scale mass production.
Hybrid Principle
To consolidate the advantages of the above two principles and avoid their disadvantages, they can be combined in practical production, known as the hybrid principle. In such workshops, some workstations or teams may be established according to the principle of process specialization, while others may be established according to the principle of object specialization. For example, for large or isolated forging machines, electroplating, and heat treatment equipment, process specialization organization forms should be adopted, while object specialization organization forms should be adopted for large-scale production of components.
Workshop Equipment Layout Design Forms
The layout of workshop equipment is determined by the production organization form adopted based on the zoning layout diagram, generally using the plan layout method. The plan layout method involves arranging all equipment, work areas without equipment, various platforms (marking platforms, assembly platforms, etc.), lifting and transportation equipment, passages, aisles, etc., on a scaled plan with a ratio of 1:100 or 1:200. Typically, thick cardboard or plastic sheets are used to make scale models of all equipment shapes, which are then placed on the floor plan to seek reasonable arrangements. This method is simple, easy to implement, easy to move and compare, and requires less effort and cost.
Content of Workshop Equipment Plan Layout
Workshop floor plan, cross-section plan, location zoning plan, legend, compass, and necessary explanations. Longitudinal sectional views of production lines should be provided for continuous automatic conveyors and automatic lines.
Buildings and structures inside and outside the workshop, including columns, walls, doors, windows, and skylight forms. The width and height of the workshop entrance should be indicated.
Overall dimensions of the workshop, dimensions, and numbering of columns, height dimensions of the workshop, the elevation of the ground, underground rooms, trenches, and pits.
Locations and names of various departments within the workshop.
Plan views and positions of all process equipment, reserved equipment locations, and equipment models, and plan numbers marked on all process equipment.
Positions of various workbenches, marking platforms, bench vices, inspection tables, and control panels.
Positions for worker operations.
Various work areas, storage areas, and spare areas.
Positions of various lifting and transportation equipment, names or models of equipment, specifications, and tracks for overhead cranes and electric hoists.
Various passages.
Use legends to indicate the supply points for water, drainage, various utilities, and the supply lines for cooling fluids, lubricants, and oils.
Forms of Workshop Equipment Layout
Based on the principles of workshop equipment layout and the division of production lines and part processing flows, there are generally several forms:
Arrange equipment in the order of the process flow, which is suitable for automated lines and assembly lines.
Arrange equipment relative to the process flow, which is suitable for assembly lines and batch production lines.
When arranging, it should be avoided as much as possible to have backflows and detours. The entrance and exit of the production line in the above two layout methods are generally in two opposite directions.
U-shaped layout. The U-shaped layout is a novel layout form, especially suitable for assembly lines with multiple machine tool management.
The U-shaped layout has the following characteristics:
The entrance and exit of the production line are close to each other and in the same direction, forming a U shape.
The front operating distance between adjacent two rows of equipment is small, while the distance between the back of the two devices is large, ensuring that each row of machine tools has a wide aisle behind it.
The U-shaped layout has the following advantages:
Each production line forms a U-shaped unit, with a flexible arrangement.
When using multiple machine tool management, the operator’s operating route is short, which is beneficial for expanding the number of machine tool management.
There is a wide distance and passage behind the machine tool, which facilitates the removal of chips, maintenance, and movement of the machine tool.
Flexible production system. The flexible production system generally consists of various CNC machine tools, machining centers, automatic spindle exchange machine tools, automatic conveying devices, automatic inspection devices, automatic warehouses, and other auxiliary facilities. The entire system is controlled by a computer, and the layout of the system is compact, with closely integrated relevant elements, maximizing machine tool utilization and labor productivity.
Spacing between Machine Tools
There should be a certain distance between machine tools, as well as between machine tools and factory walls and pillars, to ensure safety during operation and facilitate machine tool operation and maintenance.
When the equipment has an independent foundation, the distance between the equipment and the walls and pillars should not only meet the distances specified in the table above but also ensure that the equipment foundation does not interfere with the building foundation.
When the operator faces the main aisle, the distance between the extreme contour of the equipment’s back and the aisle should not be less than 300 mm. When the operator has their back to the aisle, there should be sufficient operating distance in the equipment layout. The minimum distance between the front extreme contour size of the equipment and the aisle should not be less than 800 mm. When machine tools are vertically arranged along the aisle, the minimum distance between the side contour of the machine tool and the aisle should not be less than 300 mm.
The minimum distance between marking platforms, inspection platforms, and machine tools should not be less than 1300 mm, and the distance to the walls should be maintained at 200-800 mm.
How to Manager CNC Machine Shop?
We know that the quality of products produced in different workshops may vary. This can be due to different equipment, variations in operator skills, or differences in management practices. Therefore, it is important to understand how to effectively manage the workshop to improve production efficiency and product quality. Below, I will briefly introduce workshop management and suggest other improvement methods.
Workshop Site health management
Before starting work, clean and clear the floors, tool boxes, and tool racks within the designated workstations. Ensure that the floors are free of debris, garbage, and oil stains.
After work, clean the tools and measuring instruments used throughout the day, collect iron scraps and foam within the workstation area, and dispose of them in designated locations. Regularly clean and wipe the machine tools.
Timely clean the public areas according to the hygiene zones.
Implement the “5S” management system on-site to maintain a clean production environment. Arrange equipment, fixtures, tools, and materials in designated positions with clear labeling.
Separate and store qualified and non-qualified products, and dispose of waste materials and garbage in a timely manner during the production process.
Workpiece Placement Management
Neatly place raw materials in designated areas in the warehouse after receiving them. Ensure that they are arranged in an orderly, secure, and easily cleanable manner, facilitating transportation without falling.
Work-in-progress should be placed on designated racks in isolated areas between processes, minimizing contact and friction between machining surfaces.
Finished products should be placed separately in areas for inspection and storage, coated with oil, and arranged neatly to prevent contact between painted surfaces to avoid adhesion.
Workstation Site Management
Keep the contact surfaces of machine tools, such as workbenches and rails, clean. Regularly wipe the painted parts, instruments, and numerical control components to prevent corrosion and contamination from oil and lubricants.
Regularly inspect toolboxes and tool racks. Prohibit the placement of items unrelated to work, except for water cups and cleaning supplies. Tools, measuring instruments, and drawings should be neatly organized according to specifications. Ensure that the toolboxes and tool racks are free of dust and stains.
Process Management
Strictly follow the “Equipment Operation Procedures” and “Process Operation Guidelines” for part processing operations.
For batch production, the first piece produced at the start of the production run must undergo inspection and be confirmed as qualified before continuous production can proceed. Self-inspections should be carried out during the production process according to the process requirements.
Unauthorized personnel are not allowed to change equipment parameters or programs.
Strictly follow designated arrangements for storing raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished parts.
Quality Management
Parts must be processed strictly according to the drawings. Self-inspection and inter-process inspections should be conducted to ensure part qualification.
Non-conforming products found during the machining process should be handled immediately to avoid batch quality issues.
Equipment Maintenance and Management
Daily cleaning and sweeping of machine tool dust and iron filings, including machine control panels, spindle taper holes, tool carriages, tool heads, tool storage arms, and magazines, as well as X and Y-axis sheet metal covers, flexible hoses inside the machine tool, chip troughs, etc.
Check the oil level to ensure proper lubrication of the machine tool.
Verify if there is sufficient coolant in the coolant tank and add more if necessary.
Check the air pressure for normal operation.
Check the air blowing in the spindle taper hole and wipe it with a clean cotton cloth, then spray with lightweight oil.
Clean the tool magazines and tool arms, especially the tool grippers.
Inspect all signal lights and warning lights for proper functioning.
Check for any oil leaks in the hydraulic unit.
Perform cleaning and sweeping work around the machine tool at the end of each day’s work.
Maintain cleanliness in the surroundings of the machine.
Safety Management
Strictly prohibit smoking in designated non-smoking areas.
Ensure that personal protective equipment is worn properly.
Follow the equipment operation procedures strictly. If any abnormalities are found, stop the machine and request professional maintenance personnel to handle the issue. Do not attempt repairs without proper authorization.
Each type of work should follow relevant safety operation procedures.
Fire extinguishing equipment should be placed in conspicuous locations, stored properly, and employees should know how to use them. (Consider establishing a separate safety and fire prevention system if necessary.)
Store flammable, explosive, and chemical materials separately, and ensure that the storage conditions comply with safety regulations. (Consider establishing separate regulations if necessary.)
These guidelines for workshop management and improvement methods aim to enhance production efficiency and product quality while maintaining a safe working environment. Adapt them to the specific needs and requirements of your workshop for optimal results.
How to diversify the functions of a CNC machining workshop?
One-stop service:
In the last article, we mentioned the layout of the workshop. A one-stop service needs different CNC machines to offer different CNC machining services. It can also offer post-processing services for parts, such as surface treatment, printing, packaging, etc. This one-stop service can save intermediate transportation time, shorten the overall production cycle of the product, and avoid quality issues that may arise during the process.
Surface treatment:
Sandblasting machine:
If the product surface requires sandblasting treatment, machine rolling sand or manual spraying with a sandblasting gun can be performed.
Vibratory deburring machine:
If there are burrs on the surface after CNC machining, a deburring machine is the best choice for smoothing them out.
Ultrasonic cleaning:
If there are oil stains or cutting fluids on the product surface that need to be addressed, ultrasonic cleaning can help.
Polishing machine:
If the part surface needs polishing to remove machining marks, and scratches, or improve glossiness, a simple polishing machine can smooth out the surface.
Printing treatment:
Laser marking:
If the product requires customer logo identification, laser marking is the fastest and most cost-effective method. It uses a laser to burn off the material of the logo, resulting in a complete logo display.
Strengthen inspection and quality control.
Quality control process:
Incoming inspection
For materials such as bars or tubes, it is necessary to check material quality inspection reports, material grades, outer diameters, inner diameters, etc. For castings or forgings, post-demolding weight, appearance, and dimensions should be inspected.
In-process inspection:
According to the process card or drawings, inspect dimensions, appearance, hole sizes, etc., using common inspection tools such as calipers and gauges.
100% inspection before packaging:
Perform critical dimension inspections on finished products. If dimensions cannot be measured accurately with conventional inspection tools, CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) equipment should be used. Visual inspections should be conducted for 100% of the products.
Qualified technicians with technical expertise:
Qualified technicians with years of machining experience are needed because an experienced technician can independently handle tasks from blueprint interpretation to CNC programming, machine installation, tool replacement, and cutting fluid management.
A professional technician should possess the following skills:
Proficiency in engineering drawing standards and representation methods, including tolerance selection and annotation.
Proficiency in CAD/CAM technology.
Proficiency in mechanical precision design and inspection, using inspection tools to perform in-process inspections and identify issues.
Proficiency in CNC equipment instructions and the ability to calculate computer programs based on product machining dimensions.
Possess a general awareness of quality and be able to make adjustments immediately upon discovering product issues.
Good communication skills to efficiently address problems encountered during product design and development, production process planning, and the machining process through effective communication.
How to Keep CNC Machining Shop Safe?
Ensuring machine shop safety is crucial due to the presence of various hazards in the workshop. Here are some tips to keep workers safe when they are working in the CNC machining shop.
Machine Shop Safety
Safety requirements about CNC machine shop.
Maintain a minimum distance between machinery: Small equipment should have a distance of no less than 0.7m; medium-sized equipment should have a distance of no less than 1m; large equipment should have a distance of no less than 2m. Operators and equipment should be positioned back-to-back or face-to-back in an alternating manner. Main passageways should have white line markings or warning signs.
Organize the storage of workpieces, raw materials, and tools: Ensure that they are stored neatly, securely, and classified appropriately. Implement fixed management practices. The stacking height should not exceed 1.2m.
Maintain a level and clean workshop floor: Industrial waste, waste oil, waste water, and debris should be promptly cleaned. Ensure clear and unobstructed workshop safety passages.
Regularly clean iron shavings and cotton threads.
Wear prescribed personal protective equipment (PPE) when entering workstations: In summer, it is not permitted to be bare-bodied or wear vests, shorts, skirts, high heels, sandals, etc.
Avoid long-term storage of flammable and explosive substances such as gasoline and kerosene in the production area. Necessary fire-fighting equipment should be provided. Smoking should be prohibited in the work area, or designated smoking areas (smoking rooms) should be designated.
Ensure adequate lighting: The production area should have sufficient illumination. Lighting can be natural or artificial. When natural lighting is insufficient during the day, supplementary localized lighting should be used. Generally, the illumination for regular operations should be around 150 LUX, while precision work requires approximately 300 LUX. For factory buildings with a span greater than 12m, each side of a single-span building should have windows for natural lighting, with the window width not less than half of the opening length. In multi-span connected buildings, each span should have skylights, and there should be no sealed walls between spans. Workshop aisle lighting should cover all pathways, with coverage lengths exceeding 90% of the total length of workshop safety passages.
Ground condition requirements: Sidewalks and driveways should meet safety regulations in terms of width. Pits, trenches, and pools should have reliable protective barriers or covers, with adequate lighting during nighttime. Industrial waste, waste oil, wastewater, and debris in the production area should be promptly cleaned. The workshop floor should be level and free of tripping hazards.
For moremachine shop safety rules please go to
Seven Tips to Know the Capabilities ofReliable and Qualified CNC Machining Shop?
When developing a new project and searching for a matching CNC machining shop, it’s important to have a precise understanding of the capabilities offered by the shop. Choosing a small shop CNC can be beneficial in saving time. Here we list some tips for your reference in making a better choice.
Supplier's capabilities:
Possession of advanced CNC machining equipment to meet various part manufacturing requirements.
Ability to provide one-stop service, covering the entire production process, to shorten product lead times.
Employment of skilled design and analysis engineers capable of providing comprehensive engineering design, validation, and production support for your ideas.
Employment of competent sales and after-sales teams to minimize unnecessary concerns and facilitate effective communication during CNC machining.
Ability to address problems promptly, with a strong quality team capable of analyzing issues and providing rapid solutions.
Supplier's materials:
Provision of correct materials, accompanied by material certification reports.
Utilization of a robust supply chain to source appropriate material grades.
In cases where a specific material grade is unavailable, the shop should be able to identify suitable substitute materials based on material characteristics and performance.
Supplier's methods:
Selection of the best process plans, cutting tools, and fixtures based on the part’s precision requirements and tolerances, aiming to reduce costs.
Providing methods and recommendations based on the surface requirements of the parts; for instance, suggesting an alternative spray coating method if the desired corrosion resistance cannot be achieved through painting.
Supplier's qualities:
Ability to provide non-confidential references to previous CNC machine shop projects.
Sales representatives who exhibit patience, professionalism, and attentiveness when addressing inquiries.
Effective communication and problem-solving skills exhibited by highly skilled technical personnel and engineers.
Supplier's reputation:
Willingness to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to ensure confidentiality.
Ability to deliver samples within the agreed-upon timeline without delays.
Responsiveness in promptly addressing issues rather than shifting responsibility.
Supplier's certifications:
Possession of ISO quality system certification.
Ability to provide material reports
Provision of product inspection reports based on customer requirements.
Availability of third-party testing reports, such as SGS reports for high/low-temperature testing, hardness, tensile strength, impact force, salt spray testing, aging testing, etc., as per customer needs.
Supplier's after-sales support:
A strong after-sales team is crucial, particularly when technical installation issues or surface treatment problems arise. If you choose a CNC machining shop near you, you can address these issues face-to-face. However, if you select a shop located in a distant location like China or other countries, time zone differences may need to be considered. A supplier with a robust after-sales team will provide timely assistance.
When you require a CNC machining shop, we offer exceptional customer service and turnaround time. Our team specializes in manufacturing precision mechanical parts and outsourcing mechanical components for aerospace, commercial, industrial, and food and beverage applications. We usually could choose different materials, for example, aluminum, plastics, steel, stainless steel, brass, copper, and laminates to create perfect custom-made parts for our clients. Click on now to contact us and let us start your new projects. Link（contact us）
WhatOur CNC Machine Shop Could Serve for You?
The professional design team for creating 2D or 3D CAD models:
We have an experienced design team with over 10 years of expertise. We can convert customers’ sketches or drawings into 2D or 3D models and send them for customer confirmation. Moreover, we improve the design based on the customer’s drawings in conjunction with CNC machining equipment to ensure compatibility during the machining process. For example, while the bottom of a drilled hole may be designed as a flat surface in the drawing, twist drills require chamfered edges and cannot create a completely flat bottom.
Competitive pricing:
We utilize different machining equipment based on the design drawings to reduce costs and minimize expenses for customers while maintaining quality standards.
Quality assurance:
We ensure quality through material inspections upon receipt, in-process inspections, and 100% final inspections before packaging. If required, we can also provide third-party testing reports to offer customers a guarantee of quality, providing peace of mind for their procurement needs.
One-stop service:
We offer customers a comprehensive one-stop service that covers the entire process, including design drawings, quotations, production, surface treatments, packaging, and more. This streamlines the production timeline and helps customers save costs.
Free samples:
For simple machined parts, we provide free customized samples, and customers only need to cover the shipping costs. For complex parts, we charge a symbolic sample fee, which will be refunded after placing a bulk order. Essentially, the samples are free. If customers are not satisfied with the sample quality, we will refund the sample fee.
No minimum order quantity:
In the early stages of new project development, quantities needed are often minimal. We can accommodate customer requirements regardless of the quantity, supporting the development of their new projects.
Quick response service:
Our professional sales team communicates with customers on all machining-related matters during the initial project phase to address any concerns. In the post-sales phase, our experts provide timely feedback and solutions to various issues, minimizing customer complaints.
Conclusion:
This article discusses various aspects of CNC machining shops, including their definition, historical development, components, types, layout, management, optimization, and safety regulations. It also highlights the services we provide, emphasizing our professionalism and meticulousness in machining parts. We guarantee high-quality and cost-effective solutions for your parts.
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