~ What is robotic cnc machining? ~

Jake Hughes • June 24, 2024

The technology for automation and CNC robotics has grown considerably in recent years. The technological advancement of robotics and how it can be effectively incorporated into manufacturing techniques and processes make it one of the more prominent CNC machining processes. The implementation of robotics within CNC provides a range of benefits to the manufacturing industry. CNC robotics is the combination of both CNC and cutting-edge robotics to increase accuracy and efficiency within manufacturing. 


What is CNC machining?

 

The basics of CNC machining are important to understand before heading into robotics further. A CNC turning machine can convert three-dimensional CAD designs into fully finished machine parts and components. CNC machining offers great advantages over manual machines, due to tighter tolerances, longer production runs, and increased speed of production processes.

 

How do you define robotic CNC machining?

 

CNC robotics is the combination of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines and cutting-edge robotics. CNC machines operate based on pre-programmed software and directions that control the movement of the machine. CNC robotics on the other hand, is any robotic process that is used within the CNC machining process that assists it. This is specialised, advanced robotic equipment that is designed for machining purposes only and does not require any input from the operator of the process. 

 

CNC robotics increases the advantages of automation within CNC machining and manufacturing, helping in the delivery of high-quality parts and components that are mass produced for a variety of purposes and industries. CNC robotics can be used to perform complex tasks with high levels of competency and consistency, making them an accurate assistance within mass production of parts in CNC machining processes. 


What are the common robotics used within CNC machining?

 

Below are a few of the common robotics that you find used within CNC machining: 


Articulated robots

 

These are the robotics most often seen within industry, containing rotary joints that are referred to as ‘axes’. Robotics of this kind can range from simple, two-axis structures, up to complex structures with 10 or more axes. The idea is that the axes offer degrees of freedom for greater independent motion. Applications for this type of robot include arc welding, packaging, material handling, machine loading, and assembly. 


SCARA robots

 

SCARA (Selective Compliance Articulated Robot Arm) is a four-axis robot that can handle repetitive operational tasks at high speed. The robot works in a similar way as human arms function, but they work at a much faster speed and with a higher degree of precision. There is also a compact footprint attached to them, perfect for working in assembly operations, machining, packaging, and inspections. 


Gantry (Cartesian) robots

 

Linear industrial robots with three axes that are popular due to their highly flexible configuration options. The robot can be adjusted easily to change precision, speed, size, and stroke length. They are suitable for working with assembly, loading and unloading, material handling, as well as for laser and waterjet cutting tasks. 


What are the advantages of robotic CNC machining?

 

CNC robotics are helpful in producing high-quality machine parts and components, but they are also able to manufacture robots too. The advantages of robotic CNC machining include: 


High speeds

 

CNC machining with robotics significantly shortens production time, with custom robot parts created in rapid timeframes. 


Increased precision

 

Robotic loaders are programmed for increased precision positioning, which helps to improve the efficiency of the entire CNC machining process. 


Smoother finishes

 

CNC machines create components with smooth surfaces, with the functionality enhanced by the application of additional surface-finishing operations. 


Accuracy of geometry

 

The dimensional accuracy of CNC machining ensures tight tolerances of up to 0.00002 in, helping to accelerate iterations of robot designs. 


Material compatibility

 

Components for robots need to use materials that have excellent strength-to-weight ratios to ensure the safe and effective lifting and movement of heavy goods. 


What are the differences between CNC machines and CNC robotics?

 

In terms of accuracy, CNC robotics continue to improve, with industrial robots reaching precision of between 0.1 and 0.2mm, whereas the highest quality of CNC machines can reach precision of between 0.02 and 0.05mm. The versatility of robots gives it an advantage, with robots able to move from one task to another with little downtime and no impact on efficiency. Robots have a lower rigidity than CNC machines, making them less accurate though robots can easily handle softer materials like plastic and wood with accuracy. As far as affordability is concerned, CNC machines can be expensive, but so too can robots with a large workspace required.


Is the time coming where CNC robotics replaces CNC machines?

 

Although there are advantages to robotic CNC machining, the technology does not quite yet match CNC machines in terms of the speed and precision that modern CNC machines can demonstrate. Robotic CNC machining does offer great versatility and adaptability for various tasks, but with specialist CNC machining for specific components and parts, these are a much better choice for large and long production runs where there is a need for consistency of single parts and components. 


What is the future of robotic CNC machining?

 

With the development of robotics and the technology within CNC machining developing at a fast rate, there is a real view that CNC robotics will continue to revolutionise the manufacturing sector over the coming years and decades. CNC machinery and robots that are powered by AI could help to improve production processes, with customisation offering even greater possibilities for a wide range of applications. Robotics will help in 3D printing and additive manufacturing to create complex geometries and components, boosting industrial production and speed of production runs without diminishing the safety levels of operators on site.

 

As the technology of CNC robotics improves, there will be a better chance for smaller companies and projects to take on board CNC machining processes, although it will still be the best choice to work with seasoned veterans in the field of CNC machining who have been at the vanguard of the industry for years and understand how to work within a whole host of industries and project parameters.



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