In the world of custom fabrication and CNC machining, different techniques are used to achieve the desired results and product design. Among these processes, welding is one of the most important skills that professionals use to assemble metal parts. In this article, we will delve into a comparison of TIG welder versus MIG, explore the differences between chamfer and fillet in CNC machining, and finally talk about sheet metal fabrication.
Tig Welder vs Mig
The two primary types of welding practiced during CNC manufacturing process are Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding and Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding.
TIG welding utilizes non-consumable tungsten electrodes to produce the weld. The heat required for the welding process is generated using an arc created by causing an electrical discharge between a non-consumable electrode and the workpiece. This method allows working with a wide range of alloys and metals featuring thin sections. Moreover, it also ensures control and produces high-quality welds. However, compared to other methods like MIG, TIG takes more time.
Conversely, MIG uses a wire feeding gun that feeds wire at an adjustable speed and sprays an argon-based shielding gas or a mix of argon and carbon dioxide over the weld puddle to protect it from environmental contamination. Unlike TIG, MIG can be used for thicker sheet metal structures.
Chamfer vs Fillet
Two commonly used terms in CNC machining are chamfer and fillet. Both these processes add value to the final products although they involve quite different procedures.
A Chamfer is a symmetrical sloping surface at an edge or corner of a part, designed not only to improve appearance but also to allow easier assembly with other components and to eliminate sharp corners which might cause injury.
On the other hand, a Fillet is a rounded corner or edge on your model. It enhances strength, removes sharp corners and can make parts more aesthetically pleasing.
Sheet Metal Fabrication
Finally, let’s discuss something about sheet metal fabrication. Sheet metal fabrication is the process of turning flat sheets of steel or aluminum into metal structures or products via cutting, punching, folding, and assembling processes.
It begins with the design process where CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is used to create the design that will be produced. The next step involves cutting out the designed shapes from the sheet metal. This could be done using various methods such as laser cutting, plasma cutting, or water jet cutting.
After cutting, the sheet metal might have to go through further forming procedures like bending and welding before being assembled into the final product. Effective shearing, braking, rolling, and many other techniques are employed depending upon the requirements.
Final thoughts
Whether it is TIG vs MIG welding, chamfer or fillet applications, or efficient sheet metal fabrication – CNC machining covers a wide range of operations that shape the modern manufacturing industry. Understanding these different techniques and choosing the most appropriate one based on application demands often determine the quality and efficiency of the manufactured product. An expert’s touch, therefore, remains critical in ensuring the success of any project involving CNC machinery.
