Title: Computer numeric control machine tools utilisation by metalworking companies in Brazil

Authors: Alexandre Tadeu Simon; Carlos Roberto Camello Lima

Addresses: Production Engineering Graduate Program, UNIMEP – Methodist University of Piracicaba, Rod. Luis Ometto, Km 24, Santa Bárbara d’Oeste, SP, 13451-900, Brazil ' Production Engineering Graduate Program, UNIMEP – Methodist University of Piracicaba, Rod. Luis Ometto, Km 24, Santa Bárbara d’Oeste, SP, 13451-900, Brazil

Abstract: Computer numerical control (CNC) technology has received high level of investment around the world. Considering machine tool for machining operations, almost one third of those installed in Brazilian industrial companies is composed of CNC machines. About 46% of them are less than ten years old and belong to a generation of machine tools that should have a higher density of automation, incorporating features and advanced production techniques that suppose efficient management. However, there is a low rate of utilisation of available resources, such as tool presetting, in-process measurement systems and automatic load and unload to reduce idle time. Additionally, there is a reduced use of techniques to achieve higher maximum cutting speeds and longer tool life. There is also a low rate of use of low environmental-impact techniques such as dry machining, and a very low percentage of companies that treat and reuse cutting oil. [Received 15 March 2015; Revised 4 June 2015; Accepted 13 June 15]

Keywords: computer numerical control; CNC machine tools; CNC technology; machining operations; advanced manufacturing technology; AMT; metalworking industry; environmental impact; cutting oil reuse; tool presetting; Brazil; CNC machining; in-process measurement.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMR.2015.071625

International Journal of Manufacturing Research, 2015 Vol.10 No.3, pp.267 - 285

Received: 10 Apr 2015
Accepted: 13 Jun 2015

Published online: 04 Sep 2015 *

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