The program objective of the CNC Machining course is to qualify graduates to be capable of understanding and performing machining operations utilizing Computer Numerically Controlled Machining Centers. The program will include both classroom and hands-on lab instruction. The primary emphasis of this program will be the application of CNC machining techniques to improve the performance of cylinder heads and engine blocks. Students will thoroughly explore the utilization of 5-Axis CNC Machining Centers as well as Coordinate Measuring Machine digitizing hardware and software applications and interfacing. Machine set-up, operation, and work piece preparation will be covered in detail. Special emphasis will be given to modification of high-performance and racing cylinder heads. Students will analyze and evaluate completed projects to quantify improvements, using racing industry standard equipment and techniques.
Graduates will benefit from improved opportunities for employment in all forms of the motorsports industry.
Single subjects making up this program are not offered individually. See the Equipment List Addendum for a complete list of machines used in the CNC Machining program.
Course Prerequisites:
- Present proof of secondary education (High School diploma or GED Certificate), and at least eighteen (18) years of age.
- Achieve a passing score on the Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test (A passing score of (39), which is the mean score of 12th-grade students), as an entrance exam.
- Achieve a passing score on the CNC Math Entrance Exam (A passing score of 19 of 25 questions), as an entrance exam.
- Be computer literate and familiar with Microsoft Windows 98 or later.
This course provides a general introduction to the industry work environment including customer relations, work orders, build-sheets, and parts acquisition. Familiarization with the use of basic hand tools, specialized tools, and precision measurement tools. Special emphasis is placed on both personal and shop safety due to the nature of potentially hazardous equipment.
The student will become skilled in the general operation and maintenance of CNC equipment. Familiarization with the capabilities of this equipment and applications in the racing industry.
Course will teach CNC machining equipment operation using Computer Aided Manufacturing software to generate CNC control program code. Students will explore the interaction between CAM software, CNC controller, and digitizing equipment.
Once optimum component designs have been achieved through conventional modification techniques the part will be “digitized” using a Coordinate Measurement Machine. The student will learn component improvements using CAM software. Component will be evaluated and analyzed prior to additional machining operations.
Course will focus on set-up of the machine for specific components and operations. Special purpose fixture fabrication and utilization will be learned. Proper fixture installation and workpiece preparation to insure accuracy and repeatability of machining operations will be thoroughly discussed and applied.
Actual machining operations are the primary focus of this course. Students will become proficient through hands-on machining procedures of engine blocks and components. Finished work will be thoroughly inspected for accuracy and quality.
Students will perform actual machining operations on cylinder heads. The focus will be to insure students are proficient in these procedures through inspection of finished work to verify quality and accuracy.
Student will evaluate and compare completed components against established standards. Special emphasis will be placed on effectiveness of head modifications, using flow testing, and other measurements. The possibility of further performance improvements will be analyzed.
