CNC machining of POM (polyoxymethylene) (commonly known as Delrin or Acetal) involves using computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut and shape the POM material into precision parts. Here are the steps involved in CNC machining a POM:
### 1. **Material Selection:**
– Select the appropriate POM grade based on your specific application requirements. POM is available in a variety of formulations, each with different properties.
### 2. **CAD model creation:**
– Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to design the part you want to create. Make sure your design considers the capabilities and limitations of CNC machining.
### 3. **Tool path generation:**
– Use CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software to generate tool paths based on your CAD model. Tool paths determine how a CNC machine tool’s cutting tools move to shape material.
### 4. **Tool Selection:**
– Select cutting tools suitable for machining POM. Carbide cutting tools are widely used due to their hardness and wear resistance.
### 5. **Artifact Settings:**
– Securely mount the POM workpiece on the CNC machine. Proper clamping is essential to prevent vibration and ensure accurate machining.
### 6. **Tool settings:**
– Install the selected cutting tool on the CNC machine. Set tool offsets and ensure the tools are properly aligned.
### 7. **CNC machine settings:**
– Set up CNC machines by loading CNC programs generated in CAM software. Configure machine settings, including cutting speeds, feeds, and coolant systems.
### 8. **Tool path simulation:**
– Before starting the actual machining process, simulate tool paths to ensure they are correct and have no collisions or errors.
### 9. **CNC machining:**
– Start the CNC machine and start the machining process. The machine will cut and shape the POM workpiece following programmed tool paths.
### 10. **Monitoring:**
– Monitor the machining process for any problems and make adjustments as necessary. Check that the chips are ejected correctly to prevent them from getting entangled.
### 11. **Coolant usage:**
– Coolant is used during machining to dissipate heat and improve surface finish. POM machining generates heat, and adequate cooling helps prevent material melting and tool wear.
### 12. **End pass:**
– Consider finishing passes to achieve the desired surface finish. Finishing cutting tools and optimized tool paths can improve the quality of the final part.
### 13. **Deburring:**
– After machining, deburr edges and remove any sharp edges or burrs on machined POM parts.
### 14. **Check:**
– Check the dimensional accuracy and surface finish of machined parts. Ensure the final part meets specified tolerances.
### 15. **Cleaning:**
– Clean machined parts to remove residual chips or coolant.
### 16. **Post-processing:**
– Depending on the application, additional post-processing steps may be required, such as painting, coating or assembly.
By following the steps below, you can CNC machine a POM to create precise and high-quality components. To obtain optimal results, material properties, tool selection and machining parameters must be fully understood. Working with an experienced CNC machinist and providing detailed design specifications contributes to the success of the machining process.