What is a CNC machine?

March 31, 2023

CNC stands for "Computer Numerical Control" and means that a machine is controlled by a set of commands from a controller. Command codes from the controller are usually in the form of a list of coordinates, called G-codes. Any machine controlled by such code can be called a CNC machine, including milling machines, lathes, and even plasma cutters. In this article, we will focus on the different types of CNC mills and lathes and their combinations. The movement of CNC machines can be defined by their axes, which include X, Y, and Z axes, and more advanced machines also include A, B, and C axes. The X, Y, and Z axes represent the principal Cartesian vectors, and the A, B, and C axes represent the rotation of the axes. CNC machines typically use up to 5 axes. Typical CNC machines are listed below.
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CNC Lathe – This type of lathe works by spinning material in the lathe's chuck. The tool then moves on 2 axes, cutting out cylindrical parts. CNC lathes are capable of forming curved surfaces that are difficult or even impossible with manual lathes. The tool is usually non-rotating, but if it is a power tool, it can also be movable.

CNC Milling Machines – CNC milling machines are typically used to make flat parts, but more complex machines have more degrees of freedom and are capable of producing complex shapes. The material is stationary, the spindle rotates with the tool, and the tool moves along 3 axes to cut the material. In some cases, the principal axis is stationary while the material moves.

CNC Drilling – This machine is similar to a CNC milling machine, but it is designed to cut in only one axis, that is, it only drills down into the material along the Z axis and never cuts along the X and Y axes .

CNC Grinder – This machine engages the grinding wheel into the material, producing a high-quality surface. It is designed to remove small amounts of material from hard metals; therefore it is used as a surface preparation operation.

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