Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology has existed in commercial manufacturing for decades now. In this technology, the production output is achieved by automating machine tools via a complex set of computers executing multiple pre-programmed sequences of machine control commands using Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software applications. The modern 3D printers are a variant of CNC machines.
Among all the variants of CNC machines, the CNC mills enjoy mass appeal in production, thanks to its precise and cost-effective output quality. CNC mills deploy a subtractive approach in manufacturing while 3D printers use an additive one. Although they’re popular, some of its shortcomings include high operating costs, lack of flexibility in low volume production, resource-intensive operation, higher noise levels, and generally a wasteful or excessive approach in product manufacturing. Needless to say, the Quality Control parameters used to develop and manufacture CNC machines are considered to be the most stringent.
Here, we highlight how industrial grade 3D printers from Divide By Zero Technologies deploy the same Quality Control workflows used to design and manufacture CNC machines that are industrial powerhouses.
Drawing parallels between 3D printer and CNC mills
CNC milling is based on subtractive engineering and is traditionally found in many manufacturing processes in India and across the globe. The CNC milling machines usually take a block of solid material (e.g. aluminium, wood and carbon fibre etc) and use sharp rotating tools or cutters to remove excess parts. CNC milling is essentially the reverse of 3D printing. Instead of using a computer to control the armature and print head that layers malleable materials in three dimensions, CNC routing utilizes a drilling tool to carve materials to deliver the final output.
In simpler words, CNC milling is more like sculpting while 3D printing is similar to drawing. Just like 3D printing, CNC mills rely on computers to feed them machine-specific code (similar to G-code) that controls the cutting/shaping tools. Depending on the material used, CNC machining can get extremely noisy. Cutting metal or wood using a large-diameter tool (to quickly remove large parts) can be ear-deafening. In comparison, the rattling noise from a desktop 3D printer even without a casing/housing is like a gentle waft.
CNC Minning (2)CNC-grade quality control of Divide By Zero 3D printersTo a certain degree, CNC technologies and 3D printing overlap in capability, but they each have strengths that make them suitable for specialized applications. 3D printing is easy to operate, highly flexible, empowers limitless capacity to create products with intricate designs and offers a lower and constant production cost, regardless of the batch size. These properties of 3D printers make them ideal for the creation of prototypes, custom-designed products, visual justifications, and batch manufacturing in limited quantities.
As one of India’s leading manufacturers and exporters of industrial-grade 3D printers, it is our constant endeavour to deliver products and solutions that are not only robust but also of the highest quality standards. At Divide By Zero Technologies, Total Quality Management is paramount. To achieve this, we have incorporated numerous stringent Quality Control protocols in our manufacturing workflow which are as follows.
Roundness Testing:
Considering the importance of dimension accuracy and precision in production output, it is important that the quality control of these machines have to be free from all possible errors. The quality control of CNC machines of leading manufacturers includes CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), roundness testing, autocollimator and much more. This is done to cover the positional as well as the dimensional accuracy of the machines. At Divide By Zero Technologies, we have integrated testing parameters that are capable of measuring accuracy in terms of a fraction of microns.
Dimensional Accuracy:
In order to achieve the least error in dimensional accuracy, we have incorporated ultra stable beds with moving gantry that provides better print quality and precision. Additionally, we have also sourced and deployed premium quality precision components such as linear guide rails and linear blocks to maintain a high level of precision and flexible gantries to empower a jerk-resistant and smooth movement.
X, Y and Z Axis Accuracy:
The X, Y, and Z axis accuracy of our industrial-grade 3D printers is maintained by using accurate electromechanically synchronised ball screws, timing belt and timing pulleys. Using imported print nozzles makes the extrusion smooth and uniform and keeps the tolerance intact. We believe that our solutions should be simply plug-and-play. So each Divide By Zero 3D printer is further calibrated to ensure the machines fit into your production workflow right out of the box.
Intensive Endurance Testing:
As product manufacturing units are a highly controlled environment, assembly line endurance tests not only define the build quality and longevity but also dictate how the machines perform in real-world applications. Our 3D printers are subjected to a continuous working of 50 hours for checking parameters such as temperature stability, ovality, X-Y-Z axis movement, dimensional accuracy, extrusion stability and overall print quality. Our demanding endurance testing parameters are set to comply with many respected international standards.
Noise Level:
A big part of good design ideologies in product development is ensuring that the operating noise is minimal. As 3D printers are aimed to fit in seamlessly in research and development as well the actual production process, it is crucial to ensure that the noise levels are controlled. Apart from this, noise control is a key factor to keep in mind as per many regulatory and commercial standards and stipulations. Keeping this in mind, Divide By Zero 3D Printers are designed to work under noise levels of 65 dB which is considered as an acceptable standard as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of India for commercial applications. Apart from these, some of our machines also feature high-temperature software locks and continuously activated Carbon filter air purification system to absorb hazardous fumes generated during printing, ensuring a safer work environment for the user.
Build Volume Optimization:
Currently, our 3D printers are largely classified into three broad categories based on their build volume. Below is a list of quality control parameters based on the build volume of the machines.1.
AION Series
Our flagship, the AION series features two models – the AION 500 and AION MK2 that sport a massive build volume of 500 x 500 x 500 mm. It features ultra stable beds with a moving gantry and our patented AFPM technology to deliver larger (in size) print output with the ultimate strength and precision, making it ideal for prototyping and also batch manufacturing.2. Accucraft Series
Our most popular machines, the Accucraft Series features two models – the Accucraft i250+ and the Accucraft i250D that sport a build volume of 200 x 250 x 200 mm. They sport precision series linear guides and high-quality extruders to deliver a robust and accurate output to empower precise desktop 3D printing.3. Aeqon Series
Our hybrid desktop 3D printers, the Aeqon Series features the Aeqon 400 that sports a taller vertical build volume of 300 × 250 × 400 mm. Based on the Accucraft series, it features strategic modifications to empower easy desktop 3D printing, especially for objects with higher vertical build areas.
What makes Divide By Zero the best in the industry?
- Leading manufacturer and exporter of 3D printers
- Innovative and expanding repertoire of 3D printing solutions
- Highly precise and calibrated 3D printers
- Dedicated and focused R&D team to design and develop robust 3D printing solutions
- Built to match international standards at an Indian price
- Pioneering the patented
- Advanced Fusion Plastic Modeling (AFPM™) technology
- Reliable product and services
- Extensively tested machines with least the operational errors
- Precise and high-quality output finish
- Models available in different sizes and models with scope for customizations
- Detailed pre-sales requirement analysis by qualified engineers
- Easy to understand after sales training to master machine operability
- Easy repair services available with technical assistance and spare parts procurement
- Delivery available all over India
- Experience of working with many private and government enterprises and institutions
- Made in India with great love and pride
As one of India’s foremost providers of industrial-grade desktop 3D printing solution providers, Divide By Zero has helped many manufacturers across different business verticals to help them achieve the benefits of this additive manufacturing technology. To understand how we can help your business, feel free to talk to us.