CNC turning is an intricate process that transforms a rod material into the desired shape using automated cutting tools. It’s a conventional form of machining, highly esteemed for its precision in manufacturing round-shaped or cylindrical parts such as rivets.
Rivets are one of those tiny components with exceptional stability widely used in various industries like automobile, aircraft construction, bridges, buildings and more. There are different types of rivets produced through this method, each uniquely designed according to their specific application.
Before diving deeper into the various kinds of rivets, let’s dissect what CNC turning entails.
CNC Turning: A Closer Look
‘CNC’ stands for Computer Numerical Control which implies technology-guided manipulation. During this procedure, the raw material is rotated at varying speeds while a tool cuts away unwanted areas to fashion out a final product continuously monitored by a computer program to maintain accuracy and consistency.
This process caters to multiple materials such as aluminium, steel, copper, brass, bronze, and nylon. The versatility and wide-ranging applicability make CNC turning a preferred choice in several sectors including automotive, electronics, jewelry, medical devices, and others.
Quality, speed, and repeatability define the core essence of CNC turning. With advanced machinery reducing manual operations and human error to minimal, manufacturers can deliver high volumes of products swiftly and faultlessly.
Producing Rivets Through CNC Turning
The production process involves creating a 3D design model of the rivet for the precise execution of the required specification. This digital blueprint feeds into the CNC machine, converting it into actual commands directing the movement of the cutting tool.
Once the program runs successfully, the machine secures the workpiece firmly on the spindle, sets it rotating at pre-determined speeds, and initiates the automated cutting process to sculpt the component meticulously. Once a sample piece passes inspection for quality assurance, the machine proceeds to mass production.
Various Types of Rivets and Their Application
1. Solid Rivets: The most traditional form of rivet characterized by a solid cylindrical shaft with one end burgeoned into a round head. These ensure outstanding joint reliability but require access from both ends for installation. They are extensively used in aircraft bodies, bridges, structures that demand high-strength fastening, etc.
2. Pop or Blind Rivets: Conveniently designed for difficult-to-reach areas where you can only access one side of the structure. Compromising strength slightly compared to their solid counterparts, they offer ease of use predominately in cars, kayaks, electrical systems, etc.
3. Semi-Tubular Rivets: A hybrid kind bearing a hollowed tapering hole at the tip which reduces the force needed during assembly. Employed vastly in greenhouses, hinges, brake linings, etc.
4. Structural Rivets: Designed to carry loads across their central axis, these have an unmatched fortitude suitable for large constructions, robust machines, heavy vehicles, and more.
5. Threaded Rivets or Rivnuts: With internal screw threads, these provide effective materials attachment acting as nuts inserted into thin metals or plastics.
Thus, CNC turning curates each type of rivet ensuring optimum dimensions and performance making it incredibly significant in modern manufacturing industries. Its automated efficiency guarantees precision and uniformity over vast production scales contributing immensely towards progressing technological advances.
