There are several screw thread machining methods in CNC. These different methods have their features and benefits. Here, we’d discuss the common ones and what makes them stand out.
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Tapping holes are ideal for use in producing internal threads. It is an economical as well as efficient threading method. This CNC method is applicable for use in threaded holes with the low accuracy of position as well as holes with a small diameter.
It as a method of screw thread machining has reduced CNC threading machine downtime. Also, the machining structure here is quite simple compared to other methods. Furthermore, tapping is a high-speed cutting process that greatly improves productivity and machining efficiency.
Cutting tools used in this machining method are cheaper, thereby reducing the cost of manufacturing. It is also a versatile process with a wide range of applications.
This is another method used in making screw threads. This process utilizes a milling cutter as well as a 3-axis machining center. It also adopts a circular interpolation of the three main axes; x, y, and z linear feed. Thread milling is ideal for threading large parts or materials of high value.
Thread milling has a fast processing speed, high precision, and efficiency. The milling tool used often contains hard alloys. Also, milling cutter tools are versatile, reducing the need to acquire different tools for different milling processes. For instance, the same cutter can cut the left and right-hand thread using the same pitch of screws. You can adjust the hole diameters, tolerances, and material cut with minimal difficulty.
Threads made using milling have a superior-quality surface with zero burrs. This method is ideal for making thin-walled parts, machining blind holes, and asymmetric/ non-rotating parts.
Thread cutting on a lathe is another common screw threading process with a wide range of adoption. CNC lathes facilitate the production of high-quality screw threads. With this method, machinists can make several tapered threads, lead threads, and thread pitches.
Rigid tapping and single-point threading are two of the most common methods used in CNC lathe threading. Single-point threading uses a tool with an indexable insert with a shape and size that corresponds to that of the finished screw head.
This is ideal for use in threading hardened workpieces. Two main types of grinding wheels are used for this process; multi-line grinding wheels and single-line grinding wheels. The single-line grinding wheel has a pitch accuracy with grades 5 ~ 6. It also has a surface roughness of R1.25～0.08 μm.
Single-line grinding is ideal for making a precision screw, worm, thread gauge, shovel grinding hob, and small batch threading.
The multi-line grinding is divided into cut-in and longitudinal grinding methods. The major difference between these two methods is the width of the grinding wheel. In the longitudinal method, the width of the grinding wheel is less than the length of the thread being ground. On the other hand, the width of the grinding wheel used in the cut-in method has a greater length than the thread.
Thread cutting is an essential part of the manufacturing process, but what is a screw cutting lathe and how does it work?
In this article, we describe how screw cutting lathes work and how to select the correct threading insert. At R.D. Barrett, we’ve been supplying engineers and experts with precision tools since 1975, during which time we’ve built up unrivalled industry knowledge and the UK’s largest stock of engineering tools, including screw cutting inserts and machining supplies.
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Screw cutting lathes have been around for hundreds of years, enabling engineers to cut both internal and external threads. Today’s advanced engineering CNC machines provide the same function with a precision that previous generations of engineers could only have dreamed of.
CNC machines use indexable inserts to both cut and form a workpiece. The single cutting point (threading tool) moves up and down the length of a workpiece, removing material to create the thread. CNC machines can cut both internal and external screw threads. To achieve this, the workpiece may need to pass through the CNC several times (known as multiple passes).
The process is known as single point threading. Single point threading enables engineers to cut workpieces at different thread sizes or forms, using a single tool holder. Theoretically, workpieces can be of any size (although they will naturally be constrained by the CNC machine’s size).
But how does a screw cutting lathe work? Let’s take a look.
As a workpiece is rotated by the lathe, material is removed from it to form the thread. The movement speed of the cutter, and the rotation speed of the workpiece determine the depth of cut, and how close the threads are (thread pitch). The uniformity of the screw thread is assured by the programmed feed rate per revolution.
CNC machines work at exacting levels, delivering high-quality finished workpieces that require no additional finishing or tooling. Once removed from the CNC machine, they’re ready to use.
The way a cutting tool enters the workpiece can be programmed in a variety of ways, depending on the application. Options include radial infeed, angular in-feeding and modified angular in-feeding. The choice of entry depends on the strength of the material you’re working with.
The quality of thread cutting can be affected by several factors, including tool wear, temperature and a lack of coolant to the workpiece.
Screwcutting in the lathe requires indexable inserts. Indexable inserts come in a variety of sizes, and materials, including high-quality carbide inserts.
We recommend investing in the best quality thread cutting insert to ensure consistent quality and durability. Cheap screw cutting inserts won’t last long and, in some cases, can cause issues including chipping that can damage the workpiece.
For the toughest thread cutting applications, we recommend using a carbide cutting insert. Carbide screw cutting inserts can operate at incredibly high temperatures, accurately machining metals, including steels, carbon, cast iron, and high-temperature alloys.
To select the correct threading insert, you’ll need some information, including:
The type of thread cutting insert you require will also depend on the material you are working on. Flat geometry inserts are suitable for all types of material while sharp geometry thread inserts are suitable for hard materials including stainless steel. High-quality chip-breaking inserts are suitable for work on hard materials such as stainless steel, where they can be used for longer periods of continuous and unsupervised machining.
At RD Barrett, we’re always on-hand and available to discuss your engineering tool requirements and help you identify the thread cutting inserts you need for the job in hand.
In the past, thread cutting was performed by experienced machine operators. Today’s CNC machines enable operators to create programmes ensuring repeatability and quality, delivering precision-engineered workpieces and accurate screw threads time after time.
At R.D. Barrett, we’re engineering experts and can provide impartial advice to help you select the correct size inserts for internal threading and external threading. If you require any information or advice on thread cutting or other machine tools, contact us today.
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