Precision and accuracy are commonly used concepts in machining measurement. However, their meanings differ primarily in the manufacturing and engineering fields, although they are often used interchangeably in everyday conversations.
Precise measurements are not necessarily accurate, and vice versa, because they use different measurement processes. For industries that rely on precise measurements, it is essential to understand the difference between precision and accuracy.
1. What is precision?
Precision refers to the closeness of two or more measurements. Measurements of the machined part are accurate if the measurements are close to each other. Precision is one of the most fundamental concepts used in machining. It measures the range of variance or distribution between data points in a data set. High precision means that the measurements or results are similar to low precision, with the results spread across the map.
Using the target as an example, if multiple measurements converge below the target, they constitute an accurate data set. However, since they are not close to the center, they are not entirely accurate. However, we can conclude that these measurements are accurate if they are centered around the target.
Machining accuracy represents the repeatability or reproducibility of multiple parts of similar dimensions during manufacturing. Precision CNC machine tools are at the heart of modern industry because they directly affect the reproducibility, efficiency and precision of machining. The demand for processing micro-scale products or components with micro-complex features has increased significantly.
At the same time, large-scale processing of CNC parts requires more precise design technology and processing dynamics to meet customer requirements. Accuracy is therefore a top priority in machining operations because it represents the ability of a manufacturing process or machine to consistently reproduce the nearly exact dimensions of a machined part over an extended period of time.
2. How accurate is the machining?
Machining accuracy refers to how close a measured value is to a specific or true value. A measurement is considered accurate if it is close to the true value. This may indicate the impact of systematic errors. If the systematic error is smaller, the precision is higher and vice versa.
Typically, product scientists and engineers use precision to indicate how well a single measurement matches its target or actual value. The Bullseye target is an excellent example of accuracy and precision. Good accuracy indicates how close a measurement is to the center of the target (i.e. the target value). High accuracy means you are directly hitting the target value, while low or poor accuracy means you are far from the target.
Most importantly, any value close to the true or accepted value is considered accurate if it falls on one side or the other, below or above the center point. The proximity to the real value is the most important quality of precision.
3. Benefits brought by precision and precision in manufacturing parts
1. Easier to calibrate equipment
CNC machines consist of computerized equipment that allows process designers and operators to easily calibrate different tools. Additionally, CNC machines save manufacturing instructions until the operator enters new codes or makes certain changes to manufacture a variety of precise, high-precision parts.
2. Smooth testing and prototyping
High machining accuracy makes it easy to prototype a variety of designs and parts, including complex titanium machining tasks. Additionally, precision CNC machining helps reduce labor costs and ensures high quality of machined parts. In addition to this, high machining precision and accuracy enable the performance of manufactured products to be tested seamlessly.
3.Safety Considerations
Safety is one of the primary considerations in product manufacturing, particularly in the aerospace and medical industries where precision and accuracy of parts are required. End users are at risk if manufactured parts are defective or below industry standards. Therefore, precise manufacturing and precise parts help ensure customer satisfaction and safety.
4. How to improve processing precision and accuracy
1. Optimize cutting parameters
Adjusting cutting parameters such as cutting speed, cutting depth and feed rate can help achieve the best processing results, while reducing tool wear and ensuring better processing accuracy .
2. Use high precision machine tools
High-precision machine tools provide precise control of cutting parameters. As a result, machined parts can be produced exactly according to the target values indicated on technical drawings.
3.Tool selection
Use high quality raw materials and knives to achieve high precision. Never use second-hand scrap knives. Choosing the correct tool geometry and coating for a specific machining task helps ensure that machined parts are precise and accurate to acceptable values.
4. Clamping the part
Operators often use clamping tools or CNC accessories to securely hold parts during machining to mitigate vibration and movement. These precision fixtures and clamping technologies enable the manufacturing of precision machined parts.
5. Calibration and maintenance
Regular calibration and maintenance of CNC machine tools is essential to ensure machining accuracy. Perform regular inspections of machine tools to ensure components are properly aligned and lubricated, and to check component wear.
6. Measurement and inspection
Rigorous inspection procedures using standard precision measuring instruments, including calipers, micrometers and coordinate measuring machines (CMM), to confirm dimensions and tolerances during part manufacturing.
Daguang focuses on providing solutions such as precision CNC machining services (3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis machining), CNC milling, 3D printing and rapid prototyping services.
