What is Tool Compensation in Precision Part Processing

In the process of precision parts processing, the tool wear problem inevitably exists in the cutting process of the NC machine tool, such as the length of the drill becomes shorter, the radius of the milling cutter becomes smaller, etc. At this time, the size of the workpiece processed also changes. If there is a tool size compensation function in the system function, corresponding correction values can be entered on the operation panel to ensure that the processed workpiece size still meets the requirements of the pattern. Otherwise, the CNC machining program must be rewritten.

With the tool size compensation function, CNC programming is greatly simplified. When programming, it is possible to directly program according to the part contour without considering the calculation of the tool center trajectory. Before starting the machine tool for processing, simply input the parameters of the tool used, and the CNC system will automatically calculate the motion trajectory coordinates of the tool center, reducing the labor intensity for programmers. In addition, when the size of the workpiece during trial cutting and processing does not meet the requirements of the drawing, appropriate parts can be processed with the help of corresponding compensation.

There are usually three types of tool size compensation in precision part machining: tool position compensation, tool length size compensation, and tool radius size compensation. There are two types of tool compensation used in CNC milling machines.