Engraving Machines
Engraving machines are specialized equipment used to create inscriptions and drawings on metal and stone products. The base of the machine is the platform on which a contour sensor, cutting tools, and a mechanism that transfers the necessary text or image onto the product are installed.
Advantages of CNC Machine Operation
CNC engraving machines have several advantages:
- High production speed;
- Two-dimensional and three-dimensional engraving;
- Precise transfer of images onto the part;
- Work with fragile products of various shapes;
Principle of Operation of the Engraving Machine
The engraving machine is connected to a CNC device via a USB port. This device is equipped with programs for contour cutting, milling, and three-dimensional carving.
The working process is automated: the operator only needs to set up the machine and turn it on, and then just monitor the execution of the work. The product is secured on the machine, and a cutter is installed for processing hard or soft materials.
Before starting work, it is important to check:
- The commands of the electric motor;
- The spindle revolutions;
- The mechanical on and off for the table feed.
Milling can occur through counter or synchronous milling. The first type of processing is suitable for viscous materials, while the second is for fragile and valuable products.
Types of Engraving Machines
Engraving machines are divided into laser and impact engraving machines.
Impact engraving machines have a low processing speed but provide nearly 100% accuracy in transferring the image. Laser machines operate by using laser beams.
Laser Machines
Laser machines are distinguished by their high precision in processing parts. Laser beams can perfectly cut products, engrave patterns, or join several products into one whole.
The work process of a laser machine is as follows: a drawing with the necessary parameters is uploaded to the CNC program, after which the laser beam automatically melts the material, creating the desired patterns. The entire structure includes a table, which serves as a supporting framework that stabilizes the product.
Advantages of Using a Laser Machine
- Processing of any material;
- Execution of work of any complexity;
- High productivity;
- Absence of dust and debris;
- Low probability of product damage.
Types of Laser Machines
Laser machines are divided into three groups:
- CO2 Engravers: use carbon dioxide for cutting, suitable for processing various materials from leather to stone. They are inexpensive, energy-efficient, and fast, making them popular among business owners.
- Solid-State Laser Machines: ideal for engraving inscriptions and logos on plaques and monuments. The long wavelength provides accuracy even on metal.
- Fiber Engravers: the most reliable type of laser machine, which uses fiber optics, consumes little energy, and has a compact size, allowing for easy transport.
What is Produced on Laser Machines?
Laser machines produce:
- blanks for manufacturing;
- stencils;
- interior items;
- signs;
- decorative elements.
These machines are known for their precision.
Another advantage of using laser machines for mass production is the ability to quickly manufacture identical products. It is enough to enter the parameters of the required sample into the program, and since no further processing is needed, bulk production can generate thousands of parts per hour.