5 Common Causes For Machining Errors Requiring DRO Systems

DRO systems are used and calibrated for machining equipment because of certain unavoidable errors. Common causes of these errors include gravity, loose fit, improper finishing, force deflections, and temperature variations. In this blog, Walker Machinery, a proud distributor of DRO units and digital encoders in Milton, Ontario, explores these 5 prominent causes in detail.

What Causes Machine Tool Errors That Require DRO Calibration?

Gravity

With prolonged use of any machine tool, gravity can play a role in causing minor deflections. This is especially true if a heavy cutting or machining tool is set over an overhanging or suspended table. When these deflections compound to cause measurable error, it is known as Abbe error and is most commonly seen in mill tables.

Loose Fit

Digital readout systems are also calibrated for machine tool errors caused by a loose fit between two mating parts. The main reason behind this loose fit is the tolerances caused during the manufacturing of the individual parts. However, subsequent wear and tear and improper adjustment of the gib can also lead to this error.

Improper Finishing

Even the smallest of errors during the finishing of a part needs to be considered. If the ends of the tool are not scraped straight or face some kind of misalignment, then this too has to be accounted for as an error by a DRO unit.

Force Deflections

The force generated during machining, such as driving and cutting, can contribute to small but significant deflections. Since no material is considered completely rigid, this is an inevitable phenomenon.

Temperature Variations

Lastly, temperature variations can lead to slight distortions in machine geometry over time. This, in turn, can cause some minute errors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gravity, loose fit, improper finishing, force deflections and temperature variations can all lead to minor machining errors that need to be properly calibrated by a digital readout system.

Walker Machinery can offer CNC controls that fulfill all these requirements and more. As one of the leading distributors of CNC controls in Milton, Ontario, we offer many types of digital encoders, such as rotary encoders, linear encoders, angle encoders, and more. To learn more, give us a call at 905-876-0890 today to obtain a free quote.

FAQs:

Where are digital readout systems commonly used?

DRO units are commonly used in milling machines, turning machines, grinders, and optical comparators.

Why are digital readout systems necessary?

Digital readouts are vital to increase accuracy and precision, reduce waste production and improve operational efficiency.