Why is part fixturing critical in CNC machining?

Part fixturing is critical in CNC machining primarily because it ensures that the part remains stationary and correctly oriented during the machining process. Proper fixturing maintains the stability of the workpiece, allowing for precise cutting, drilling, and milling operations. When a part is securely held in the correct position, it reduces the likelihood of movement that could lead to errors, such as incorrect dimensions or alignment issues.

Moreover, effective fixturing enhances repeatability, which is crucial for producing multiple parts that are identical to one another. In high-volume production, consistency is key, and securely fastening a part minimizes variation between cycles. If the part shifts even slightly, it can affect the machining process, resulting in poor quality and increased scrap rates.

While minimizing tool changes, increasing material removal rates, and simplifying programming are all beneficial aspects of CNC operations, they do not address the fundamental need for stability and precision that fixturing fulfills. Thus, the primary role of fixturing in CNC machining centers around maintaining the correct positioning and reducing the potential for error throughout the machining process.