Analysis of CNC machining technology in production of plaster moulds

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