The Different Types of CNC Machining Tools

As the name suggests, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are computer-guided, high-precision tools capable of making accurate movements in repeated patterns. CNC machining works similarly to 3D printing, with the primary differences being advanced speed, high precision, and cost. Here are the various types of CNC machining tools.

CNC Milling Machine

A milling machine is one of the most prevalent CNC machines. To use this CNC machine, you need to feed it specific programs created with letters and numbers, which the mills will translate and act on it. This programming language is known as G code. Its rotary cutting tools can cut metal pieces into various sized and shapes. Top-class fabricators use a CNC machine over manually-operated milling machines as they offer greater precision and accuracy.

CNC Routers

A CNC router is used to cut different materials, including plastic, wood, steel, composites, aluminum, and foam, like its manually-operated counterpart. However, a CNC router enables the cutting of more prototype models and more complex shapes. This machining tool relies on numeric computer control to run, just like a CNC mill. This significantly improves its productivity as it can cut more items in less time. Typically, entry-level industrial CNC routers move on the 3-axis, while advanced offerings can move between 4-axis and 6-axis.

CNC Lathes

CNC lathes are also standard machining tools and can be found at every notable fabricator. Unlike CNC mills and CNC routers, CNC lathes can be operated using several programming languages and are revered for their incredible cutting precision. These rotatory machines can make precise cuts and 3D molds and shapes from materials through their spinning action. This makes them ideal for manufacturing cylindrical or spherical objects.

CNC Plasma Cutters

A CNC plasma cutter leverages a plasma torch to cut through heavy metals like steel. It works by converting the gases blown by the cutter at high speeds into plasma. The plasma has extremely high temperatures. The metal fragments produced during the high-temperature cutting are blown away by the high-pressure air.

Electrical Discharge CNC Machines

The type of CNC machines are either wires or virtual machines and take advantage of electrical sparks to cut through metal sheets. They are capable of developing various sizes and shapes of materials. You should keep in mind that many more CNC machining tools are being developed and will expand the market soon apart from these five.

Do You Need CNC Machining Services in Hermiston, OR?

We at N.M. Metal Fabricators should be your first choice whenever you look for metal fabrication services in Hermiston, Oregon, and the surrounding areas. We are a family-owned enterprise that has been around since 1986. We boast more than a century of experience making machinery for the food processing industry, including storage bins, storage tanks, and water heater tanks.  At N.W. Metal Fabricators, we also manufacture handrails, gates, sanitary piping, trailer truck hitches, and steam piping. Additionally, we are an accredited member of the prestigious local Chamber of Commerce. Call us today.

Categorised in: Machining

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