Investigation Into Manufacturing Errors On APlaner Machine

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation into machining errors found on a CNC planer machine. Difficulty in achieving specified tolerances had been experienced on components requiring cutting of both sides. Out of tolerance components are either scrapped or reworked, increasing costs and reducing production efficiency and quality. Initially, thermal expansion was suspected as being the main cause of the errors. Tests were carried out using thermal imaging, temperature sensors and displacement transducers to provide a better understanding of the machines behaviour. The production process was also studied to identify areas for improvement. Based on the test results an improved set up and machining procedure was devised that would overcome the machine deficiencies, with probing and knowledge about the time variant errors being identified as key areas. These procedures have been implemented resulting in significant improvements in production efficiency and quality.