CNC Machining for Aerospace & Defense

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining plays a crucial role in the manufacturer of aerospace and defense components. CNC machines provide high levels of accuracy, consistent quality, and machining efficiency. These are requisites  for producing the precision that the aerospace and defense markets demand. CNC machining is at the core of the manufacturing process.

Accuracy

Because of the critical applications in aerospace and defense, the parts  require high degrees of accuracy.  Modern CNC machines are designed and built to meet the high standards of aerospace and defense parts. The latest generations of CNC machine controllers and servo feedback systems are capable of narrowing  tolerance bands, thus producing more accurate parts. The latest generations of CNC machines are not only more accurate, they are also more repeatable. The consistency from part-to-part helps maintain overall quality and increases manufacturing efficiencies.

Among the efficiencies gained as CNC machining technology improves, is the ability to more easily machine complex shapes. Previous generations of machine tools required multiple setups to produce multi-axes components. Today’s machines can machine 5 axis simultaneously on single spindle machine and additional axis on multi-spindle machines. This allows complex  shapes, like turbine blades to be machined with minimal setups, which eliminates tolerance stack-up and improves overall quality.

Materials

There are very few material restrictions for CNC machining. It  supports a wide range of materials. The most common machined materials are aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and high-performance alloys. The material characteristics that lend themselves to the harsh environments in aerospace and space are strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and durability.  CNC machines can efficiently process these materials, ensuring optimal performance in aircraft, satellites, military vehicles, and weapon systems.

Production Efficiency

Successful aerospace and defense machining demands a high level of efficiency. It requires a combination of optimizing machine throughput, while maintaining or improving quality. CNC machines gives you flexibility. It gives the operator/programmer access  to many of the variables that directly impact efficiencies: feeds, speeds, and machine sequencing. It also gives the operator/programmer input to other variables outside the direct machining: gaging, and automation. All the things above mentioned can have a tremendous impact on production efficiency.

Industry Standards and Compliance

At Intrex Aerospace we have acquired AS 9100, ISO 9001 and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) certification or compliance. Meeting these audited standards requires control of the entire manufacturing process.

Our CNC machines have features that are helpful for integrating machine output data into an ERP/MRP system. Besides machining, some of the features of CNC controllers are used for measuring, recording and reporting, which are critical for total process control. This information is then coupled with a quality system. All this type information can be compiled, integrated, and reported, to insure regulatory compliance.

Customization

Innovation is a driving force in aerospace and defense. It requires the contract manufacturer to be flexible. Adapting new machining techniques, upgrading tooling, and work holding are common requirements. Design improvements are ongoing. All this requires flexibility. Order quantities are shrinking. They are being replaced by smaller quantities, but with higher degrees of “customization” on orders placed.

CNC machines are well suited for this age of customization. Controllers combined with CAD/CAM systems can generate new models and new programs in a relatively short time. Newer model CNC machines with multi-axis, multi-turrets, multi-spindles and automatic tool changers can minimize setups, thus shrinking the time it takes to produce  new parts. This flexibility also lends itself to short runs for existing parts, which helps keep inventory levels low, while still providing acceptable lead times.

Future of CNC Machining

As technology continues to evolve, CNC machining will continue to evolve. The integration of AI, machine learning, and automation will further improve precision, speed, and efficiency. Additionally, hybrid manufacturing, which combines CNC machining with additive manufacturing (3D printing), is gaining traction for producing complex aerospace components.

CNC machining is an indispensable component of aerospace and defense manufacturing. It provides precision, efficiency, and reliability. Its ability to produce high-quality, compliant components makes it the preferred method for manufacturing aircraft parts, military hardware, and space exploration equipment. As technology advances, CNC machining will continue to be at the center, driving  innovation, making aerospace and defense systems safer, stronger, and more efficient. Intrex Aerospace is proud to be a part of it.

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