Research Article
Design and Experimental Implementation of a CNC Milling Process for a Pneumatic Cylinder Base
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, December 2026
Pages:
36-48
Received:
12 July 2026
Accepted:
23 July 2026
Published:
17 August 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ie.20261002.11
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Abstract: Pneumatic-cylinder bases contain planar interfaces, stepped regions, hole patterns, and threaded features whose relative accuracy directly affects assembly and sealing performance. This study develops and experimentally implements a milling-oriented process-planning framework for a representative cylinder-base component. The workflow links functional requirements to datum selection, operation sequencing, cutting-tool selection, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) programming, toolpath verification, and shop-floor execution. The component was modeled and programmed in Mastercam 2022. The adopted sequence comprised face milling, contour and pocket milling, center drilling, drilling, tapping, chamfering, and final inspection. A D60 face mill, end mills, 4.2 and 6.8 mm drills, spot drill, chamfer tool, and M5/M8 taps were used. The NC programs were verified through graphical simulation before machining on a Manford CNC machining center. An aluminum blank available in the workshop was used to demonstrate the process, although the original design was intended for gray cast iron. The completed component reproduced the required overall geometry and hole arrangement and was suitable for assembly trials. Visual inspection, however, revealed cutter marks and a surface condition inferior to the original specification; therefore, sealing performance and long-term load capacity were not claimed. The results show that a design-to-CAM process chain can reduce programming ambiguity and provide a reproducible route for low-volume production, while also demonstrating that material substitution and the absence of quantitative surface-metrology data must be explicitly considered when assessing manufacturing conformity. Accordingly, the experimental evidence should be interpreted as verification of workflow implementation and qualitative geometric feasibility, not as quantitative qualification of dimensional accuracy, surface integrity, or pneumatic function.
Abstract: Pneumatic-cylinder bases contain planar interfaces, stepped regions, hole patterns, and threaded features whose relative accuracy directly affects assembly and sealing performance. This study develops and experimentally implements a milling-oriented process-planning framework for a representative cylinder-base component. The workflow links function...
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,
Nguyen Thi Anh
