Combined sawing and drilling: what are the advantages?
Drill holes and saw profiles in the same production line
The most obvious advantage of a parallel (or closely integrated) drilling and sawing line is increased efficiency and productivity. The entire raw profile of the workpiece only needs to be measured once, processed in a single operation, and CNC machine throughput is increased. The exact specifications of both machines are known and communicated via control software, which can also take into account the saw blade thickness and the distance between the saw blade and the drill for complete accuracy. Operations are scheduled in a way that ensures the highest productivity and the shortest movement paths during processing. Finished products can be sorted according to length, product name, or further processing requirements.
High productivity in a small area
Another advantage of combining drilling and sawing is reduced material waste and reduced transfer of material from one machine to another. With only one input and output point used by both machines in the CNC system, logistics in the workshop are simplified, meaning only one loading and unloading operation is required, which in turn reduces the use of cranes or forklifts.
Proper measuring system
In a closely integrated combined drilling and sawing line, it is important to consider the type of measuring system, logistics, product sorting, and handling of short products. The choice of measuring system depends on the specific requirements and limitations of the workshop in which it is installed. The type of production itself is an important factor, as measuring systems may be more suitable for batch production, short products, or different types of profiles. Process optimization can be carried out for space usage, autonomy, processing time, minimum product size, and simultaneous multi-layer sawing/drilling.
What is CNC automation?
Automation simply means reducing human intervention in the operation of a CNC machine. Manufacturing always involves a combination of people, machines, and IT systems that must all work together for the best result. In combined drilling and sawing CNC machines, automation has also reached a higher level of development in the CNC industry.
Automation of physical movement and operations
Automation of physical movement and operations requires automation hardware such as robots so that the system can execute planned production (machining) in practice. This happens through the transfer of materials or direct manipulation of the workpiece. In addition, the system can also control the physical movement of cutting tools and the integration of supporting processes such as deburring, washing, measuring, marking, etc. In combined drilling and sawing CNC systems, automation also reduces the need for other machines and manual labor.
It is important to note that production planning and resource management can be automated independently of physical operations, but the greatest benefits are achieved only when both are combined.
Why CNC machines are the future
Although CNC machines have existed for some time, they are continuously improving and offer endless possibilities for the future of manufacturing. The combined CNC machining process is an excellent solution that shows that the development of CNC machines is still in its early stages and will continue to evolve alongside other technologies.
