CNC (Computer Numerical Control), also called numerical control, is controlled by a computer, used to operate drills, mills, lathes, routers, grinders, and 3D printers. The operator types in corresponding coded programmed instructions, and CNC can transform the material into a specific shape.
In the main part, we will introduce 5 common types of CNC machines, including CNC Routers, CNC Lathes, CNC Milling Machines, CNC Plasma Cutters, and CNC Discharge Machines.
What is the CNC Machine?
A CNC machine is a kind of machinery controlled by a computer that makes different parts and products. The operator doesn't need to control the tool manually so it can promote accuracy and consistency in production.
CNC machine uses pre-programmed commands from two computer software, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), to control the movements of complex machinery. CAD uses for designs and CAM translates these designs into G-code or M-code.
CNC Router
Controlled by a computer, a CNC router usually mounts a handheld router as a spindle used for cutting multiple materials, such as steel, wood, aluminum, composites, plastic, and foam. Like the CNC mill, it uses computer numerical control to router tool paths. In this way, a CNC router can produce various workpieces in a short time which can increase working efficiency.
CNC routers are widely used in the woodworking industry, from the cabinet door to 3D sculptures. In the advertising industry, it usually is used to carve signs or letters on the material to make some products.
(image source: Amazon)
CNC Lathe
CNC lathe is designed for precision CNC turning and manufacturing. Its framework is very similar to the manual lathe, cutting workpieces while they are rotated, but it is a combination of the principles of manual lathe and computer programming. It is particularly used for machining parts, especially those symmetrical about an axis. Common CNC lathes have two axes, X and Z, while some newer lathes may have more axes.
(image source: STYLECNC)
CNC Milling Machine
As we mentioned above, the CNC milling machine is similar to the CNC router, and it is more like the industrial version of the CNC router. Its cutting tool is mounted on the rotating spindle to remove some material, while the workpiece is mounted on the table, so the tool can work at different angles. In addition, it has many types, from three axes to five axes, which can produce high-precision products.
(image source: Amazon)
CNC Plasma Cutter
Plasma cutting is the process of electrically conductive materials with a high-speed jet out of hot plasma. A CNC plasma cutter, with a plasma torch, can move the torch under the computer's direction and is used to process structural steel and other metals. Compared to hand-held plasma torches, a CNC plasma cutter can precisely master part accuracy and edge quality for metal fabrication. This is why the CNC plasma cutter is widely used in industrial woodworking.
(image source: Amazon)
CNC Electric Discharge Machine
Electric Discharge Machine, or EDM for short, uses thermal (sparks) to remove materials. Between two electrodes, it will produce a series of rapidly recurring currents, which are separated by a dielectric fluid and receive an electric voltage. It's the principle of EDM removing the material for the workpiece. But this machine only works on electrically conductive like brass, aluminum, and steel. EDM can be roughly divided into sinker-type processes and wire-type processes.
(image source: OSCARMAX)
Sum Up
Above five common types of CNC machines, the last three machines belong to industrial grade. With the development of technology, CNC machines play a more and more important role in every industry. It can help you make a perfect cut or produce exquisite projects by typing in specific coded program instructions. However, be careful when you use it. The operators need to have a comprehensive understanding of what these machines are used for and how they work.
FAQ About CNC Machines
#1 What is a CNC machine used for?
Different CNC machines perform different tasks. They can be used to operate drills, mills, lathes, routers, grinders, and 3D printers - to transform the material into a specified shape.
#2 What is the best CNC machine for beginners?
The best CNC machine for beginners must meet the ease of use, affordability, and versatility. According to your requirements, you can take some relative reviews as a reference to choose the most compatible one.
#3 Do you need a computer to run a CNC machine?
Undoubtedly, yes. You need a computer to control the machine. Type in the corresponding coded programmed instructions and these instructions will be delivered to the CNC machine.