10 Types of CNC Machine 

Types of CNC Machine – In the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining process, production equipment and tools are moved according to pre-programmed computer software.

The procedure may be used to operate a variety of complicated machinery, including mills, CNC routers, lathes, and grinders. Three-dimensional cutting jobs may be completed with CNC machining in a single set of instructions. In this post, we are going to describe some basics of CNC machines and provide comprehensive information about various types of CNC machines.

Basics of CNC Machining

You will be better able to appreciate the difficulties involved in effectively utilizing your data for a CNC-controlled machining or cutting activity if you are familiar with the CNC process and how it works. This little introduction ought to be helpful.

Some Basic Definitions

CNC: Computer Numerical Control – A computer and CAM software are used to automate, control, and observe the motions of a machine using digital data. The machine might be a robot, router, lathe, grinder, welder, sheet metal stamping machine, laser or waterjet cutter, or any number of other devices. The computer is often an on-board specialized controller for bigger industrial machinery. However, the computer can be an external PC for machines that are more suited to hobbies or with certain retrofits. In order to move and control the machine axes and carry out the preprogrammed movements, the CNC controller collaborates with a number of motors and drive components. The advanced feedback system that continuously analyzes and modifies the cutter’s speed and position is often present on industrial equipment.

Desktop CNC: There are a lot of smaller desktop CNC machines designed for model makers and hobbyists. These are often less costly, slower, less accurate, less stiff, lighter, and less rigid than their industrial equivalents, but they work well for milling things made of softer materials like plastic, foam, and wax. Some desktop computers may operate quite similarly to a printer. Others may even have specialized CAM software and their own closed command system. A few will also take input in the form of regular G-code. Certain desktop industrial standard machines have specific controllers for performing fine tiny operations.

CAM: Computer-Aided Machining or Manufacturing – This is the process of using different software programs to generate toolpaths and NC code for a CNC-operated machine based on data from 3D computer models (CAD). The combination of the two is frequently referred to as CAD/CAM.

It should be noted that CAM only generates code for the CNC machine to follow. Additionally, it does not import your CAD model and automatically generates the appropriate NC code. In order to execute the program, create machining strategies, and know which tools and operations to employ in each circumstance to produce the best results, CAM programming, like 3D modeling, requires knowledge and expertise. While there are certain straightforward programs that a novice user can pick up and use without too much trouble, more complex models require time and financial commitment to become skilled.

NC code: This is a unique, relatively basic computer language that can be understood and used by CNC machines. These languages were first created to enable direct part programming at the keyboard of the machine without needing a CAM application. Along with managing other machine operations like spindle and feed speeds and coolant, they instruct the machine on what actions to do one at a time. The most widely used language is G-code, often known as ISO code, a basic alphanumeric programming language created in the 1970s for the first CNC machines.

Postprocessor: Although G-code is regarded as the industry standard, individual manufacturers are free to change certain components, such as auxiliary functions, making it possible for G-code designed for one machine to malfunction on another. Many machine makers have also created their own programming languages, including Heidenhain and Mazak. Therefore, there is a bridge software component software called a postprocessor to convert the internally determined routes of the CAM software into precise NC code that the CNC machine can interpret. Once properly set, the post processor generates the appropriate code for the selected machine, allowing any CAM system to produce code for any machine theoretically. Postprocessors may come with the CAM system for free or at an additional fee.

Types of CNC Machines

10 Types of CNC Machines are:

• CNC Milling Machine
• CNC Lathe Machine
• CNC Drilling Machine
• CNC Laser Cutting Machine
• CNC Grinding Machine
• CNC Waterjet Cutting Machine
• CNC Plasma Cutting Machine
• CNC Electrical Discharge Machine
• CNC Router Machine
• 3D Printer

CNC Milling Machine

One of the most common CNC machines are mills, which include integrated tools mostly used for drilling and cutting.

To route and travel the spindle in various ways, mills develop and convert specialized programs made up of letters and numbers (G code).

The workpiece is placed inside the milling machine, and then the computer takes over.

Every action and movement of the spindle and tools is guided and instructed by the computer code in order to accurately cut and transform the workpiece into a planned bespoke item.

Some of the typical tasks that a CNC milling machine may carry out include tapping, turning, drilling, milling the face, and milling the shoulder.

Configurations for CNC milling machines range from three to six axes.

The three axes in the simplest 3-axis CNC stand for the motions of the X axis (horizontal), Y axis (horizontal), and Z axis (depth).

In comparison to other CNC equipment like CNC routers, CNC milling machines are relatively big and costly.

In general, hard metals are machined using CNC mills, whereas soft materials like wood, plastic, and soft metals are machined using CNC routers.

Some of the well-known manufacturers of big CNC milling machines are Okuma, Haas, and DMG Mori.