CNC Cutting Machine Practice Test

Which type of movement does pitch of a lead screw define?

1. The angular movement per step

2. The linear movement per complete rotation

3. The rotational speed of the screw

4. The overall distance per cycle of movement

The correct answer is: The linear movement per complete rotation

The pitch of a lead screw specifically refers to the linear distance that the screw advances for each complete rotation. This means that when one full turn of the lead screw is made, the associated linear movement of the attached component is determined by the pitch measurement, which is typically expressed in units such as inches or millimeters. This measurement is critical in CNC applications where precise positioning and movement of components are necessary, ensuring that parts are cut or machined accurately. In the context of the other options, while angular movement, rotational speed, and overall distance can all relate to various aspects of lead screws and their operation, they do not accurately capture the definition of pitch. The pitch distinctly connects to the linear advancement of the screw, making it a fundamental concept in understanding how lead screws convert rotary motion into linear motion in CNC machinery. Therefore, the correct identification of pitch as the linear movement per complete rotation underscores its essential role in CNC cutting machine dynamics.