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CNC machining, that is, computer digital control machining, is an important automated processing technology in modern manufacturing. It controls the movement of machine tools through computer programs to achieve high-precision, high-efficiency and complex-shaped parts processing. CNC machining has a variety of processes, each of which has its own unique characteristics and scope of application. This article aims to lead readers into the diverse world of CNC machining and reveal the rich machining types and process characteristics behind it. Whether for beginners or professionals who have been in the manufacturing industry for many years, understanding the varioustypes of CNC machiningand its applicable scenarios will be a journey that inspires thinking and broadens horizons.

What is CNC Machining?

CNC (computer numerical control) machining is a manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machines to remove material from a workpiece and shape it into the desired shape. In short, it is an advanced process method that uses digital information to control machine tools to achieve parts processing. It breaks the limitations of traditional processing methods, perfectly integrates human wisdom and the power of machines, and realizes automation, intelligence and precision in the processing process. In this era of information explosion and rapid technological changes,cnc-machiningis not only an important cornerstone of Industry 4.0, but also a bridge connecting the past and the future, tradition and innovation.

What Are the Types of CNC Machines?

1.CNC Milling Machines

CNC milling machinescan process a wide range of materials. In order to process parts with complex shapes and high precision, they can accurately adjust the position and movement trajectory of the tool. It is mainly used to process parts of various shapes, such as planes, bevels, grooves, gears, holes, etc.

2.CNC Lathes

CNC lathes work by rotating the workpiece material around a central axis. Cutting tools are then used to remove the workpiece material and shape it into the desired shape. CNC lathes can produce finished products faster and with greater accuracy than manual lathes. CNC lathes are suitable for various processes such as cutting, grinding, facing, drilling, turning, knurling, etc.

3.CNC Grinding Machines

Precision grinding uses CNC grinding equipment to process workpieces. By precisely controlling the position and movement trajectory of the grinding wheel, micron or even nanometer-level processing accuracy can be achieved. A specificCNC grinding machinecan complete multiple processes such as grinding and polishing in one clamping. , with composite processing capabilities.

4.CNC Routers

ACNC routercut various shapes and designs on flat surfaces of any material. These machines replace multiple manual tools traditionally used in carpentry and metalworking workshops, such as boring machine tools, panel saws, and spindle molders.

5.CNC Plasma Cutting Machines

CNC plasma cutting machine uses a high-temperature plasma arc (generated by high-frequency discharge between electrode and workpiece) to melt and blow away metal materials to achieve efficient cutting. Therefore, the workpiece to be cut must be made of conductive metal materials such as steel, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and brass. At the same time, theCNC plasma cutting machineis equipped with a high-power cutting torch, which can cut hard materials such as titanium and steel. It is especially suitable for cutting thick metal sheets and processing complex shapes.

6.CNC Electric Discharge Machines (EDM)

CNC electric discharge machines (EDM)uses electric spark discharge to process conductive materials. It can process precision parts and molds such as deep holes, complex cavities, and mold cavities. It can be used to process brittle materials and conductive materials, such as metals and alloys.

7.CNC Drilling Machine

CNC driling machinescan accurately position and control the movement of the drill bit to achieve high-precision and high-eficiency drillingoperations, incuding blind holes, through holes, countersinks, and countersinks.it is suitable for drling metals, plastics, wood, and composite
materials.

8. CNC Laser Cutting Machine

A machine tool that uses laser beam control to cut materials is called aCNC laser cutting machine. Lasers come in three different varieties: gas, liquid, and solid. A fiber or CO2 laser source generates the laser beam. It focuses on the material's surface through an optical system, melting or vaporizing it to achieve high-precision cutting.

How Does the CNC Machining Process Work?

Step 1: CAD Design

We used CAD (computer-aided design) software to conduct three-dimensional modeling of the components. By inputting the required information, such as geometric parameters, material properties, etc., it is converted into graphic data, and then a computer is used to generate a two-dimensional engineering drawing, and finally output to a plotter to complete the entire product design process. Designers will create a three-dimensional model of the part within the CAD software based on the specific needs and functions of the product, and add all necessary detail elements, such as support structures and shells.

Step 2: Converting CAD to G-Code

CAD software provides an "export" option or function that allows users to export designed drawings to DXF format or other more common formats. If you want to use different types of drawing tools for design, you must convert them into corresponding data files so that they can be easily called and operated. CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software is specially designed for generating G-code files for CNC machine tools. It can read the output DXF files and automatically generate G-code commands on the workbench. The processing program can also be generated directly by the computer. In the CAM software environment, users need to select the tools, cutting parameters (such as cutting speed, feed, etc.), cutting paths, etc. they need, and generate this information into G code files. These data are stored in the database and then sent to the CNC machining center through the network for processing. G code is a programming language that can be understood by CNC machine tools. It contains machine tool motion instructions, cutting parameters, cutting paths and other information.

G code is interpreted and executed by the control unit of the CNC machine tool. The control unit will guide each component of the machine tool (such as spindle, feed axis, etc.) to move according to the preset trajectory and speed according to the commands in the G code. Then complete the cutting processing task of the parts.

Step 3: CNC Machining Operations

First of all, we need to adjust various parameters of the machine tool according to the programming requirements, such as the fixing method of the workpiece, the placement position of the tool, and the processing rate. After debugging each part of the machine tool one by one, you can start the next step. The accuracy of machine tool configuration will directly determine the quality and efficiency of processing. Secondly, by analyzing the structure of the machine tool, the relative relationships and interconnections between the components are obtained, the dimensions of each axis and the names of related components are determined, and drawings are drawn.

Next, the workpiece is fixed on the machine tool's table and the appropriate tool is selected for the cutting operation. In order to ensure that the tool can accurately process parts, the tool must be selected correctly and reasonably. When selecting and installing tools, the material, shape and specific processing needs of the part must be fully considered. After analyzing the structure and characteristics of the parts, the principles and methods of tool selection were determined.

Finally, you need to upload the completed G code file to the control unit of the CNC machine tool and start the corresponding processing program. After completing a series of actions, the machine tool automatically stops and enters the next cycle. The machine tool will execute the automated processing process according to the commands in the G code. Beforethe machining, the tool needs to be positioned to ensure that the workpiece is accurately clamped and maintained in a certain position. The operator has the responsibility to pay close attention to the working conditions of the machine tool and timely adjust the processing parameters as needed to ensure that the entire processing process can proceed without hindrance.

Step 4: Finishing and Quality Control

After rough machining is completed, finishing is usually required to improve the surface quality and accuracy of the part. Finishing can be carried out by grinding, grinding, polishing and other methods. After processing is completed, the parts need to be inspected for quality. Inspection can use measuring tools and equipment to detect size, shape and surface roughness to verify that parts meet design requirements. Parts that do not meet the requirements need to be trimmed or reprocessed.

What Are the Common CNC Machining Methods?

1.Milling Machining

Milling machiningis the process of removing material through the use of cutting tools and is used to create complex geometric shapes.

• Working principle:Fix the blank, use a high-speed rotatingmill machiningcutter to cut out the required shape and features on the blank.
• Application: Machining millprocessing is widely used in the processing of molds, inspection tools, molds, thin-walled complex curved surfaces, artificial prostheses, blades and other parts.
• Classification:Traditional milling is mostly used for milling simple shape features such as contours and slots; CNC milling machines can process complex shapes and features.
• Features:Milling is suitable for processing parts with shapes such as planes, grooves, and curved surfaces. However, vibration is easily generated during the processing, which affects the processing quality.

2.Lathe Machining

Lathe machiningis the process of removing material with a cutting tool by rotating the workpiece next to it.

• Working principle:On the lathe, the rotational motion of the workpiece and the linear or curved motion of the tool are used to change the shape and size of the blank and process it to meet the requirements of the drawing.
• Application: Lathe machiningprocessing is widely used in machinery manufacturing, automobiles, aerospace and other fields. It is suitable for processing rotary surfaces, such as internal and external cylindrical surfaces, internal and external conical surfaces, end faces, grooves, threads and rotary forming surfaces, etc.
• Classification:including straight lathe machining, threadlathe machining, taper lathe machining and external grooving, etc.
• Features: machining lathehas high machining accuracy and production efficiency, but the equipment investment is large and the operator's skill requirements are high.

3.Grinding Machining

Grinding machiningis a processing method that uses the cutting effect of abrasive tools to remove excess layers on the surface of the workpiece so that the surface quality of the workpiece reaches predetermined requirements.

• Working principle:Through the contact and relative movement between the abrasive tool (such as a grinding wheel) and the surface of the workpiece, the cutting action of the abrasive grains is used to remove excess material from the surface of the workpiece.
• Application:Grinding is mainly used to process parts with high surface roughness requirements, such as bearings, gears, etc.
• Classification:Common grinding processing forms include cylindrical grinding, internal cylindrical grinding, centerless grinding, thread grinding, workpiece flat surface grinding, forming surface grinding, etc.
• Features:Grinding can achieve high processing accuracy and surface quality, but the processing efficiency is relatively low.

4.Drilling

Drilling is one of the common operations inmachining cncand is used to create high-precision holes.

• Working principle:The rotating drill bit exerts pressure on the workpiece, and the cutting edge of the drill bit is used to remove material and form a hole.
• Application:Drilling operations are widely used in machinery manufacturing, automobiles, aerospace and other fields to process various hole parts.
• Classification:including drilling, reaming, reaming, boring, etc.
• Features:Drilling operations have high processing accuracy and production efficiency, but the equipment investment is large and the operator's skill requirements are high.

What Are the Advantages of CNC Machining?

Advantages	Description
High precision	Through computer programming control, micron-level processing accuracy is achieved, product quality is improved, and the scrap rate is reduced.
High efficiency	Automated processing, reducing manual intervention, completing multiple processing tasks at the same time, and shortening the production cycle.
Flexibility	Adapt to the processing needs of different materials and shapes, and quickly modify and adjust the processing plan according to design requirements
Stability and reliability	Computer control eliminates the influence of human factors and automated detection technology to ensure the stability and reliability of machine tools.
Material adaptability	Suitable for metal, plastic, ceramics and other materials, improving material utilization and saving resources
Easy to integrate	Easily integrate into automated production lines and work together with other automated equipment to achieve efficient production
Save manpower	Reduce manpower requirements and labor costs. One operator can operate multiple machine tools at the same time.
Reduce costs	High precision and high efficiency reduce scrap rates and production costs, and improve corporate economic benefits.

How to Choose the Right CNC Machine for Your Project?

1. product requirements:TheCNC machineyou need depends primarily on the job being done. For simple items, aCNC latheor 3-axis mill may suffice. However, as complexity increases, it becomes cheaper to have machines that can make most parts in a single setup. The best machines for this type of work are five-axis CNC machines.
2. Understand power requirements:These machines require a lot of power and often use three-phase power for optimal performance. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that the building receives enough power to run the new equipment. It's also worth checking your current electricity usage. A facility may have adequate power supply when all existing machines are running, but adding a new CNC may use more power than is available.
3. Processing materials:When choosing a CNC machine, the type of material to be machined is a factor that must be considered. The machine must be strong enough to mill precision parts from carbide. For softer materials, such as mild steel, consider using precision machines that can maintain the necessary tolerances.
4. Cost and ROI:Choose a cost-effective CNC machine tool based on your budget and processing needs. Evaluate operating costs such as energy consumption, tool consumption, and maintenance costs of machine tools. Consider how much the machine tool improves production efficiency and the economic benefits it brings.

Why Choose Longsheng Customized CNC Machining Services？

By choosing our precisionCNC machining manufacturer,you will receive high-quality, customized parts, fast delivery, and competitive prices. We will cooperate with you to provide excellent CNC machining solutions for your project.

• Multi Material Machining：We have the ability to handle multiple materials, and we can provide professional solutions no matter what material of cnc parts you need to process.
• Customized Services：Provide customized solutions based on customer design requirements and specifications to ensure that CNC parts meet their unique needs.
• Competitive Pricing：We provide competitive prices and cost-effective solutions to ensure that customers gain the greatest advantage in cost control.
• Rapid Delivery：We have efficient production processes and flexible production plans, which enable us to timely deliver customer orders and meet urgent project needs.

FAQs

1.What are the types of CNC machines?

There are many types of CNC machine tools according to different classification standards. Common types of CNC machine tools include CNC milling machines, CNC lathes, CNC grinders, and CNC routers., CNC plasma cutting machine, CNC electrical discharge machine (EDM), etc.

2.How many types of CNC programs are there?

CNC programs mainly include ① Manual programming: It is a basic method suitable for simple or traditional CNC machine tool operations. The operator is required to have an in-depth understanding of machine tool characteristics, cutting parameters, G code and M code, etc. This is usually done by hand coding, from setting the origin and selecting the tool to writing the cutting path.②CAM software programming: It is the preferred method of modern CNC programming. Using CAM software, part models and CNC codes can be designed through a graphical interface without the need to write codes manually. It improves programming efficiency, reduces the chance of errors, and allows for more complex geometries and machining strategies.③Parametric programming: represents advanced technology in the field of CNC programming. Use variables and logic statements to create reusable code templates. Programmers can design programs based on common features between similar parts and adapt to different processing requirements by simply changing parameters.

3.What is the classification of CNC machining process?

CNC machining technology mainly includes ①Milling is the process of removing material through the use of cutting tools and is used to create complex geometric shapes.②Turning is the process of removing material with a cutting tool by rotating the workpiece next to it.③Grinding is a processing method that uses the cutting effect of abrasive tools to remove excess layers on the surface of the workpiece so that the surface quality of the workpiece reaches predetermined requirements.④Drilling is one of the common operations in CNC machining and is used to create high-precision holes.

4.What are the three types of machining process?

①Cutting: Cut the workpiece with a tool to remove excess material and obtain parts of the required shape and size. Such as turning, milling, drilling, etc. ② Forming processing: Plastic deformation of the workpiece through mold or pressure to obtain parts of the required shape and size. Such as stamping, forging, extrusion, etc. ③Special processing: A processing method that uses physical or chemical energy such as electricity, magnetism, light, and heat to perform non-traditional cutting or material removal on the workpiece. Such as EDM, laser processing, ultrasonic processing, etc.

Summary

CNC machining technology occupies an important position in modern manufacturing. With its high precision, high efficiency and flexibility, it is widely used in aerospace, automobile manufacturing, medical equipment, mold manufacturing and other fields. With the continuous advancement of technology, CNC processing will continue to develop, pushing the manufacturing industry towards a more intelligent, automated and efficient direction. Understanding and mastering CNC processing technology can not only improve the competitiveness of enterprises, but also promote the overall progress of the manufacturing industry.

Disclaimer

The content on this page is for reference only.Longshengdoes not make any express or implied representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or validity of the information. No performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, material quality and type or workmanship should be inferred as to what a third party supplier or manufacturer will deliver through the Longsheng Network. It is the responsibility of the buyer seeking a quote for parts to determine the specific requirements for those parts.Please contact us for more information.

Longsheng Team

This article was written by multiple Longsheng contributors. Longsheng is a leading resource in the manufacturing sector, withCNC machining,sheet metal fabrication,3D printing,injection molding,metal stamping, and more.