CNC machines are computer-controlled tools that create and shape parts from wood, metal, and plastic. Many types of CNC machines are available on the market, each designed for specific tasks. For example, some CNC machines are designed for cutting wood, while others are better suited for milling metal. This blog will discuss everything you need to know about what is CNC machine. Without further ado, let’s get started;
What ate the different types of CNC machines?
There are over ten types of CNC machines, each designed for a specific task. The most popular types are:
1. Milling Machines
A milling machine uses rotating cutters to remove material from a workpiece. It is one of the most versatile machines, capable of cutting wood, metal, and plastic. Milling machines have either vertical or horizontal spindles.
2. Lathes
A lathe is a machine that rotates a workpiece about its axis to perform various operations such as turning, facing, and drilling. According to their construction, lathes are classified into engine lathes, turret lathes, and capstan lathes.
3. Grinders
A grinder is a machine that removes material from a workpiece by abrasion. The surface grinder is the most common type, which uses a rotating wheel to remove material from the workpiece.
4. Drilling Machines
A drilling machine is used to create holes in a workpiece. It consists of a drill bit, held in a chuck, that is rotated at high speeds. Drilling machines are classified into hand-held, benchtop, and radial drills according to their construction.
5. Sawing Machines
A sawing machine is used to cut material with a saw blade. It is one of the most versatile machines, capable of cutting wood, metal, and plastic. According to their construction, sawing machines are classified into hand-held saws, benchtop saws, and standing saws.
6. CNC Routers
A CNC router is a computer-controlled machine that routs (cuts) parts from a sheet of material such as wood, metal, or plastic. Routers are available in various sizes and configurations, from hand-held models to large industrial machines.
7. CNC Plasma Cutters
A CNC plasma cutter is a computer-controlled machine that cuts material with a plasma torch. Plasma cutters are available in various sizes and configurations, from hand-held models to large industrial machines.
8. CNC Laser Cutters
A CNC laser cutter is a computer-controlled machine that cuts material with a laser beam. Laser cutters are available in various sizes and configurations, from hand-held models to large industrial machines.
9. EDM Machines
EDM stands for electrical discharge machining. It is a process that uses electrical sparks to cut material. EDM machines create dies, molds, and other complex shapes.
10. Waterjet Cutters
A waterjet cutter is a machine that uses high-pressure water to cut material. Waterjet cutters are available in various sizes and configurations, from hand-held models to large industrial machines.
Bottom line
CNC machines are tools to create and shape parts from materials like wood, metal, and plastic. Many types of CNC machines are available on the market, each designed for specific tasks. In this blog, we have discussed what is CNC machine and the ten most popular types of CNC machines.
