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CNC Milling Course: Hands on Milling - Operator to Setter

This is a basic CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling course designed for people with some knowledge and experience of the machining process and CNC controls and wish to acquire new skills in CNC programming. This will enable them set up and optimise production jobs. It is a hands-on course where learners will gain practical experience as each module of the course will be delivered at the CNC machine with live demonstrations of each step over the course duration.

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Description

Learner Profile: 

Operators/programmers currently operating CNC mills at an operator level i.e. part loading, basic tool changing, wear adjustments etc.

Learners who are seeking to upgrade their existing skills from experience of the machining process, to acquiring knowledge of CNC programming.

Learner prerequisites:

Candidates should at minimum have completed the Junior Cert with pass grades in at least five ordinary level subjects (including Maths and English).

Basic knowledge of CNC operation and setting of already developed programs for CNC Precision Mills.

Learners must wear appropriate PPE during the practical sessions. Learners must supply their own safety shoes. The training provider will supply safety glasses.

Learning outcomes:

At the end of the course participants will have acquired basic knowledge for CNC operation and setting of already developed programs for CNC Precision Mills.

Course content covers three axes milling with a consideration for 4 and 5 axis machines.

The course is suitable for those with controlled CNC mills who are ISO programming.

Each learner will develop a standard check sheet for successful part setting relevant to their own environment.



Course Content:

Day 1: Module 1 -  Machine types and milling basics



  • Machine health and Safety – PPE, interlocks, emergency stops
  • Standard machining configurations – 3, 4 & 5 axis – vertical, horizontal, VTC etc.
  • Machine interface. Program start, stop, wear/off set pages. Edit/Auto pages, Program call up
  • Clearance areas within the machine – what to watch out for ·
  • Types of work holding – Vice, hard jaw, soft jaw – set up of single and multiple vices
  • Zero point fixturing, self-centering
  • Basic tools paths and how to identify – facing, shoulder milling, slot milling, climb milling, V conventional milling. Typical parameters for each – what to/not to do.
  • Basic machining strategies – tapping, thread milling, reaming, boring. Typical parameters for each – what to/not to do.

Day 2: Module 2 - Tool Management and part inspection



  • Changing of tools and tips, proper placement, cleaning, care of tool and screws
  • Feeds and Speeds – calculation of
  • How to recognise when a tool is worn. How to identify wear patterns
  • Changing of wear offsets. How to, who to, what happens when you don’t.
  • Cutting conditions – swarf control, sound of proper cutting/boring, drilling, chip breaking
  • Cutting conditions – coolant management, importance of coolant in the proper position and how swarf can impact
  • Part inspection and proper use of inspection equipment – verniers, micro-meter, slips

Day 3: Module 3 - Part Setting and Prove out



  • Datums – what are they, how to set, how to check through MDI or auto run so as not to crash into part.
  • Probing systems
  • Proving out of programs – approach to, interferences
  • Optimisation of programs – reduced rapid movements and tool station configurations
  • Each to develop check sheet for part setting
  • Scenarios and test cuts on parts

Duration:

3 days

Exam/Continuous Assessment details:

The instructor supervises a series of tasks undertaken during the course to verify the learner’s understanding.

Certification / Awarding Body/Credits:

Certificate: CPD Certificate of Attendance (issued by Training Provider)


Awarding Body: Engineers Ireland   


Credits: This course awards 21 hours Continuous Professional Development (CPD) - as recognised by Engineers Ireland. This is documented on the certificate.


(QQI Credits: n/a)

Progression Pathway

N/A