CNC stands for computer numerical control and these machines play an important role in the manufacturing industry. These complex machines are controlled by a computer and provide a level of efficiency, accuracy and consistency that would be impossible to achieve through a manual process.
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Operations that were impossible years ago are now easy thanks to CNC machining. Just as there are many different parts that CNC machines can make, there are also various types of CNC machines used to accomplish this. Each machine differs in construction, the way they operate and the types of product they can make.
Keep reading to learn all about the different types of CNC machines and their unique functions.
The CNC meaning can be defined as a process in which pre-programmed computer software dictates the movement of factory machinery and tools. As a result, manufacturers can produce parts in less time, reduce waste and eliminate the risk of human error.
This manufacturing process is used to control a wide variety of complex machinery, which will be discussed in this article. Essentially, CNC machining makes it possible for three-dimensional cutting to be completed by following one set of prompts.
Training to become a CNC machinist at NASCAR Technical Institute doesn’t look like your traditional college classroom. Rather, it’s an “intensive immersion,” as CNC instructor Craig Hibdon says, meaning students dive in with hands-on training to develop meaningful skills applicable to a variety of careers.
Watch the video below to learn more about the CNC experience at NASCAR Tech:
If you've ever wondered what is a CNC machine, here we break down the different types of machines for you. These impressive machines are designed to manufacture a wide variety of items. As such, there are several different types of commonly used CNC machines.
It’s important to know that these are not your average machines. They require the skills of a trained professional to be able to produce high quality commercial products. All of the following machines use G-code, which is the language that a CNC machine understands. Each type of CNC machine caters to a specific purpose.
One of the most common types of CNC machines, a CNC mill utilizes computer controls to cut various materials. Mills can translate specific programs of numbers and letters in order to move the spindle in various ways.
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Many mills use what is known as G-code, which, as mentioned, is a standardized programming language recognized by most CNC machines. A CNC mill can have a wide array of functions, such as face milling, shoulder milling, tapping, drilling and turning. Most CNC mills come in three to six-axis configurations.
A CNC mill is very large compared to other tools and can be quite costly. Some CNC milling machine manufacturers include Okuma, HAAS and DMG Mori.
A lathe is a CNC machine that functions to cut work pieces as they are rotated. CNC lathes can make precise cuts quickly by using various tools.
These CNC machines are quite effective in the precision they offer compared to manual lathes. They often have fewer axes than CNC milling machines, and are therefore smaller in size and more compact.
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CNC lathes come with similar controls to those of CNC mills and can read both G-code and other proprietary programming languages. Some of the most common CNC lathe machine manufacturers include HAAS, Mori Seiki and Okuma. The framework of CNC lathes is similar to manual lathes.
A CNC router is a machine that is very similar to the commonly used handheld router utilized for cutting various materials. This type of CNC machine can aid in the cutting of steel, wood, aluminum, composites, plastic and foam.
A CNC router is similar to a CNC mill. It comes with the ability to use computer numerical control to route tool paths that enable the machine to function. CNC routers reduce waste and increase productivity by producing various items in a much shorter amount of time than other machines.
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Most routers can operate on a particular material in all three dimensions, and are great for smaller projects and the creation of prototype models and complex designs. You can also find three axis, four axis, five axis and six axis routers.
The process of plasma cutting involves the cutting of a material using a plasma torch. This method is most commonly used to cut heavy materials, such as steel and other forms of metal.
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With a CNC plasma cutter, gas is blown at a very high speed from a nozzle. While this is being done, an electrical arc forms through the gas coming out of the nozzle to the surface that is being cut.
This converts some of the gas into plasma, and these plasma temperatures range from 10,000-50,000 degrees. The plasma is hot enough to melt whatever material is being cut, and it blows away any molten metal from the site of the cut.
In terms of shape and size, CNC plasma cutters are very similar to CNC routers. These machines only work with two-dimensional shapes.
Electric discharge machining, or EDM for short, involves creating a specific shape within a certain material by using electrical discharges, or sparks.
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In this process, the material is removed from a specific work piece by a series of recurring electrical discharges between two electrodes. These electrodes are separated by a dielectric fluid, which often receives an electric voltage. In this machine, the material is placed in between two electrodes and the machine then calculates to see the amount of electrical discharge each electrode needs to produce.
Last but certainly not least, there are CNC laser cutters.
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These types of machines are similar to CNC plasma machines—the only difference is that lasers are mostly used for cutting and are great when it comes to cutting metals, plastic or hardwood. Depending on the density and strength of the material, the intensity of the laser can be adjusted.
As you can see, there are various types of CNC machines, all of which serve different functions. As a CNC operator, machinist or programmer, it’s important to have an understanding of how these machines work and what they are capable of in order to get the job done right.
If you’re wondering what career opportunities exist in the CNC industry, be sure to check out our CNC career guide. From aerospace to medical to oil and gas, CNC machines are used in a variety of fields, which opens the door to many different career opportunities in each of these industries.
If you’re looking to pursue a career in the CNC industry, it’s important to have the right training. UTI offers a 36-week CNC Machining Technology program, where you can gain hands-on training and high-tech skills needed to prepare for a career as a CNC machinist.1
Created in conjunction with Roush Yates Engines, a leading brand in the industry, you’ll learn everything from reading blueprints to the setup and operation of CNC mills and lathes. This program begins every six weeks, so you may be able to start your training sooner than you think.
UTI’s CNC Machining Technology program is offered at the NASCAR Tech campus in Mooresville, NC. To get information on class schedules, housing, financial aid and more, contact us today. Our team is here to assist you!
For even more information, be sure to check out our CNC FAQ page.
Before showing you how does a CNC lathe works, you should know what this type of industrial machine is.
CNC lathes are fully automated machines controlled by computer numerical control software. One of the main advantages is that they can perform different tasks and easily position the X, Y or Z axes. Thanks to these axes, the machine can easily move over the component according to its geometry (spherical, conical, square, etc.).
It can also work with complex parts and various materials. With this type of machinery, it is possible to drill, turn, mill, cut and other industrial sector tasks. This makes it easier to increase the volume of manufactured parts with greater precision.
So, How does a CNC lathe machine work? Take note of everything!
Now that we know what a CNC lathe is, the next step is to discover some of its main parts. In this case we are talking about a basic CNC lathe.
Regarding the operation of a CNC lathe, the most relevant part of the operation is:
The CNC machine controller receives instructions from the computer and, using its own software, converts the instructions into electrical signals to activate the motors which, in turn, will start the drive system.
A CNC lathe machine is normally used to produce precise round shapes with both an Outer Diameter (OD), and an Inner Diameter (ID). Practically all kinds of structures could be machined with this machine tool, depending on their needs in different industries.
This kind of machines are commonly used in industries such as aerospace, electronics, oil & gas, automotive, medical, etc.
Still not sure? The advantages of use CNC lathes are:
Although the use of CNC machines has become widespread over the years, there is a shortage of qualified personnel to operate these machines. The reason is simple, specialized studies and training are required to be able to use the CNC program.
However, when the operator does not know how to write the CNC program or the application is very complex, a CAM program can be used. In many cases, the CAM program works in combination with computer-aided design (CAD). This eliminates the need to redefine the workpiece setup for the CAM program. In addition, it is easier to use; the worker must specify the machining operations to be performed and the CAM program will automatically create the CNC program.
So, there are different ways to program a CNC lathe:
In most cases, the CNC lathes should be able to process one CNC programme while the next CNC programme is being established and programmed. This helps to improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process and saving time.
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