Gettin' Schooled
by Phadeus G. Orilla
Top 7 “No shit Sherlock” ways to reduce cycle time. Reducing cycle time on CNC machines is critical for improving productivity and reducing costs in manufacturing. Duh.
1. Optimal cutting parameters
We hear this all the time. “Run it till it breaks them back it off 10%” While this certainly has a cool machismo factor, setting the right cutting parameters for pocketing, full slotting, ramping or profiling can increase tool life, reduce cycle time and improve surface finish. Our online and smart phone app cutting conditions calculators will make you look like a rockstar. And who doesn’t want that? You wanna look like a rockstar. Your parents want you to look like a rockstar. Your old lady wants you to look like a rockstar. Gorilla Mill wants you to look like a rockstar.
2. Proper tool selection
Too many times we see people using the wrong tool for an application. Our response is “are your nuts hanging out the window? C’mon Jack you know the thing!” The type and size of tool used can greatly impact the cycle time. Selecting the right tool for the job can reduce machining time and increase accuracy. Again Duh.
3. Use high-speed machining techniques
As Speedy Gonzales once said, “Undele, undele yee-ha! High-speed machining techniques such as high feed, volume milling, constant cutting speed and reduced air cutting (btw, Gorilla Mills last forever when cutting air) can help to reduce cycle time and increase efficiency. Say it with me. “No shit Sherlock”.
4. Use of simulation software
Here’s our no-brainer quote of the day. Using simulation software to test and optimize the manufacturing process can help to identify areas for improvement and reduce cycle time. Double DUH!
5. Improved material handling
Streamlining the process of loading and unloading raw material and finished parts can greatly reduce cycle time. Automating material handling with robotics can be particularly effective. Or, you could just use the shop Noob who’s making $6.75 an hour to grunt that shit around.
6. Better machine maintenance
Regular maintenance of CNC machines can help to reduce downtime and ensure consistent performance, ultimately reducing cycle time and holding tight tolerances all while keeping your “Y” axis from disengaging into the parking lot.
7. Process optimization
We can’t say this enough. Keep optimizing an application. It’s never good enough. Shave a second hither and thither and in no time your profits will soar enough to pay cash for that super yacht you’ve had your eye on. Analyzing the manufacturing process and identifying bottlenecks can help to optimize the process and reduce cycle time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we’ve just baffled you with our brilliance and bullshit. All of the above is a No-brainer. In short:
1) use our calculators
2) optimize the living shit out of everything.
3) use the Noob for all the bullshit that’s beneath you.
4) Rock on. 🤘🏼🤘🏾🤘🏿
