CAM and lasers - Metals - Eduqas - GCSE Design and Technology Revision - Eduqas - BBC Bitesize (2024)

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CAM and lasers Laser cutter FAQs

CAM and lasers

is central to many production systems, enabling a large range of processes to be carried out using technology. machines incorporate high-spec precision from a to manufacture a product. CNC can produce products by , or . It can also be utilised to cut, engrave, heat cut and even print in solid materials.

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Slide 1 of 2, A close-up blurred out image of a computer numerical controlled (CNC) milling machine cutting metal., CNC milling

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Advantages of CAMDisadvantages of CAM
FastHigh initial cost
AccurateMaintenance of machines is required
Can be repeated easilyWorkers need training
Less labour intensiveLess workforce is needed
Fewer errors
Advantages of CAMFast
Disadvantages of CAMHigh initial cost
Advantages of CAMAccurate
Disadvantages of CAMMaintenance of machines is required
Advantages of CAMCan be repeated easily
Disadvantages of CAMWorkers need training
Advantages of CAMLess labour intensive
Disadvantages of CAMLess workforce is needed
Advantages of CAMFewer errors
Disadvantages of CAM

Laser cutter

A is a high-precision CAM machine that cuts a wide variety of materials using an extremely powerful beam directed onto the material using angled mirrors. The power setting can be varied - if the power is reduced or the speed is too high, then the laser beam will not cut completely through the material and will engrave it instead.

CAM and lasers - Metals - Eduqas - GCSE Design and Technology Revision - Eduqas - BBC Bitesize (2)

Timber and polymers can often be cut easily using a laser cutter - it is possible to cut other materials such as glass and metal, but the power of the laser will need to be higher. The process enables rapid prototyping and reduces material wastage, therefore reducing costs. It achieves cleaner edges compared with other CNC processes, and can be repeated with very little set up cost.

CAM and lasers - Metals - Eduqas - GCSE Design and Technology Revision - Eduqas - BBC Bitesize (2024)

FAQs

What is CNC BBC bitesize? ›

computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines incorporate high-spec precision from a computer aided design (CAD) close computer aided design (CAD)The process of creating a 2D or 3D design using computer software. to manufacture a product.

What is CAM bbc bitesize? ›

Computer aided manufacture (CAM) involves using computers to control machines during the production of goods. By using CAM, designs can be sent to CAM machines such as laser cutters, 3D printers and milling machines.

Is laser cutting a CAM process? ›

Two examples of CAM machines used in the production of polymers are: Laser cutter. - A laser is directed from a precise length on to a material to either cut or etch. The laser is controlled from a computer using a computer aided design (CAD)

Is CNC a good thing? ›

CNC Machining Is More Accurate and Has No Defects

This is a huge advantage when it comes to creating parts with tight tolerances. This capability almost entirely eliminates human error from the equation.

What does CAM mean in DT? ›

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is the use of software and computer-controlled machinery to automate a manufacturing process.

What does CAD mean in DT? ›

Computer aided design (CAD): using computer software to draw, design and model on screen. Computer aided manufacturing (CAM): manufacturing products designed by CAD. Automation is the use of machines to do a task automatically, without much or any human input.

Is laser cutting a CNC? ›

A CNC laser cutter is a computer-controlled cutting machine that uses a high-powered laser beam to cut through materials such as metal, wood, and plastic. CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, which means that the machine is controlled by a computer program that dictates the movement of the laser beam.

Is laser cutting CAD? ›

The Laser Cutting Process

A high-power laser is used to cut shapes into sheet metal and other materials as designed by a CAD/CAM machine. A laser beam is channelled as instructed by the computer-based design package to ensure the cut perfectly matches the design plans.

What will a laser not cut? ›

Materials you should not process with a laser

These materials include: Leather and artificial leather that contains chromium (VI) Carbon fibers (Carbon) Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

What is CNC in simple terms? ›

Computer numerical control (CNC) is a manufacturing method that automates the control, movement and precision of machine tools through the use of preprogrammed computer software, which is embedded inside the tools. CNC is commonly used in manufacturing for machining metal and plastic parts.

What CNC means? ›

Computer numerical control (CNC) is a technology that uses computers to control machines in manufacturing processes. It outlines a high-tech way to automate and precisely control the movements of tools and machinery in industries like metalworking, woodworking, and even 3D printing.

What is CNC described? ›

CNC transforms a piece of material (metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, stone, or composite) into a specified shape by following coded programmed instructions and without a manual operator directly controlling the machining operation.

What is CNC in science? ›

CNC part programming consists of designing and documenting the sequence of processing steps to be performed on a CNC machine. From: Industrial Control Technology, 2008.

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