​Easy Ways to Get the Most Out of Your CNC

When working with your CNC, there are many times that you may not even realize any potential room for improvement. Minimal or zero communication with your CNC operators and not taking sufficient time to be present in the shop are the biggest offenses when neglecting possible improvements.

No matter what the reason is, there are several ideas for improving the use of your CNC using un-traditional methods as opposed to quick change tooling. Most of these ideas are very easy to execute and are definitely worth your time.

• Even though it may not seem necessary, color coding your pull studs will help your machine operators. If your machining centers are produced by more than one builder, it can be expected that every machine tool will have and need its own pull stud. A pull stud, also known as a retention knob, permits the toolholder to be secured in the spindle. There can be a great variation in these types of studs amongst machine builders. Even though there is a variety amongst these studs, the differences are often minute and sometimes difficult to see. Since the differences are so small, operators may run the risk of using the wrong stud which could cause major problems. In turn, dying all of the pull studs for a specific machine will leave less room for trouble and confusion.
• Using Velcro may not be your first idea when it comes to heavy machinery but Velcro is extremely useful for keeping things were they need to be. Some examples of ways that you could use Velcro for your CNC include:
• Velcro wrenches needed to alter inserts or bolts right next to where they will be used on the machine.
• Velcro the vise clamp to the front of the machine for vertical machining.

These types of uses for Velcro can decrease any time that may be spent looking for specific tools needed for your CNC.

• Be sure you identify any needs for increased organization. Some workers and operators may be wasting more time than you think if they are constantly looking for desired pieces and/or leaving pieces in the wrong place. It is also pertinent to be sure that there are assigned places throughout the facility for these pieces. When observing your operation, make note of these offenses and adjust accordingly
• When working in the machines, the same tasks are constantly being repeated. As a result, improvements can be made by making a list of these tasks. Not everyone will memorize every step to a task after completing it for the first time. In turn, it would be beneficial to make a list of the correct steps to use the CNC. This will help not only to speed up the learning process but hopefully make less errors when using it as well.

Always keep your machine well maintained using this handy checklist.