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The work of cutting, molding, or machining metals, wood, plastics, and other materials within the industry is no longer the same since they are carried out using Computerized Numerical Control machines. Of course, CNC machinery supports industrial production, reduces costs and manufacturing times, and provides precision to tasks.

With minimal human involvement, these machines perform multiple complex machining operations. Therefore, a machining center is an automated and computer-controlled area with the necessary tools to perform functions on the same piece, mainly numerous cutting methods (milling, turning, grinding, drilling, threading, and punching, among others).

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a process that uses code, often generated with computer software, to control the movement of cutting tools to manufacture parts by removing material. CNC machining software, generally referred to as CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software, controls machine movements with programming, eliminating the need for manual operations.

Types of CNC machining

There are a wide variety of CNC machine designs. In some machines, the part moves or rotates while the axis and the tool remain static. On other machines, the part remains static while the axis is moving. Some machines are a combination of both designs.

The main advantage of CNC machining is the accuracy of each part. This characteristic is because highly technical computer programs are used as long as the precision is millimeter, which it would not be if the pieces were made by hand. Besides, thanks to CNC machining software to create the parts, the risk of errors is considerably reduced.

Workers who must supervise the machines that perform the CNC machining will not risk injury when working with dangerous tools. In this way, fewer workers are needed, and they are safer.

To learn more about CNC machines’ various designs, you can read our eBook Types of CNC Machines. This e-book also includes descriptions of components and programming for CNC machines and descriptions of non-milling devices.

If the industrial processes that you manage or supervise could be improved with a machining center, seek an expert CNC quote to find the best possible solution for your needs.

Roughing with CNC machining

. Discover the usefulness of Autodesk Adaptive Cleaning.

  • 2-axis versus 3-axis milling comparison


Turning while CNC machining is running is very different from milling.

What are the advantages of a CNC machine?

The advantages of machining, compared to the use of traditional machines, are many. Here are some of them:

•Automatic tool change, possible on a machining center, saves time

•Handling of the operator is reduced, so accidents also

•Not much operator training required

•Manufactured parts are consistent, by scheduling and automating operations

•The volume of workpieces can be as small or large as required

•The processes are flexible and versatile since the same machine performs several operations

•Machining centers can run 24 hours a day

•There is software that allows simulating the manufacture of the design before actual production, without the need for prototypes

•The supervision of a machining center is more accessible since once programmed, the CNC machines let themselves work

Wrapping Up

From the most advanced industrial sectors to the most traditional, they have incorporated CNC machining, benefiting from its advantages.