Computer Numerical Control (CNC) turning is an essential manufacturing process prevalent in multiple industries. It’s a method that involves using computers to control machine tools, providing high precision components at record-breaking speed. This article will delve deeper into the specifics of CNC turning and explore different types of rivets used within the industry.
CNC Turning Explained
CNC turning refers to a machining process where material bars are placed in a chuck and rotated while various tooling operations such as cutting, drilling or deformation are applied for creating precise symmetrical products. The whole operation is controlled by a computer, which ensures exact detailing and accuracy.
The production procedure involves converting a design made by Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software into numbers. These act as coordinates guiding the cutter’s movement over the work piece. As everything is automated, there’s minimal manual intervention, reducing errors substantially and providing consistent quality.
Producing Varied Types of Rivets Through CNC Turning:
One product extensively manufactured through this technology is rivets. Rivets serve critical roles in many sectors such as aerospace, automobile and construction. They’re mechanical fasteners designed for joining two components together permanently.
There are many kinds of rivets produced via CNC turning and here we’ll discuss the most commonly utilized variants:
1. Solid Rivets: Solid rivets are the oldest and most reliable types. Produced using CNC turning, they consist of a solid cylindrical shaft with a head on one end. When installed, the tail-end gets deformed either from hammering or pressing, creating another head, thereby keeping the joined materials intact.
2. Tubular Rivets: Created similarly as solid rivets, tubular ones have a hollow shaft causing less deformation during installation. They are light yet provide optimal strength. Their primary applications include leatherwork, paper binding etc.
3. Blind Rivets: Blind rivets or “pop” rivets involve a two-piece design: a rivet and a mandrel. They’re installed from one side, making them useful for closed-off areas. Their industrial implementations are vast, ranging from automotive to furniture.
4. Semi-Tubular Rivets: A hybrid of solid and tubular models, semi-tubular rivets require less force during installation due to their partially hollow shaft. CNC turning ensures accurate production of these rivets used largely in vehicles, luggage, brake lining etc.
5. Shoulder Rivets: Designed with an additional shank above the main head, shoulder rivets can hold individual parts together without restricting movement between them. Perfect calibration through CNC turning helps realize their wide application in swivel chairs, clipboards, and more.
6. Split Rivets: Also known as “tack” rivets they possess unique split legs which separate and fold back upon installation forming claw-like grips. Produced meticulously through CNC turning, they mostly find use in woodworking and clothing industries.
Conclusion
Safety and precision are cardinal aspects when it comes to machinery development. CNC turning provides that by offering high-accuracy crafting solutions, especially found in the production of different types of rivets used across various sectors. The quick automation and precise repeatability offered by this technology not only enhance productivity but also play a significant role in improving overall manufacturing quality standards.
