Analysis of CNC machining technology in production of plaster moulds

Abstract

The present paper continues the further application of machining techniques in the ceramics industry with the aim of optimising company resources in new competitive markets. The work is focused on plaster model and mould generation by computer based geometric design, machine tool path creation, and subsequent production through CNC machining using a robotic machining centre. Many constraints were identified related specifically to the machining of plaster used in the manufacture of ceramic ware. Because of the limited information, since most machining investigations have only considered metal machining or fired ceramics, a large number of machining experiments were conducted. It is concluded that substantial advantages are gained through the use of this new approach for ceramic production processes, and the subjects for follow on research are defined.