What Are The 11 Main Types of CNC Machining?
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a manufacturing process that utilizes computerized controls to operate and manipulate machine tools like lathes, mills, and grinders. This type of machining is highly accurate and precise, and capable of producing complex shapes with just a few simple commands. It is widely used in the production of parts for the automotive, aerospace, medical, and electronics industries, among others.
The 11 main types of CNC machining are: drilling, milling, turning, grinding, tapping, routing, engraving, EDM (electrical discharge machining), wire EDM, broaching, and water jet cutting. Each of these processes uses different tools and machines to create specific shapes, contours, and finishes on a variety of materials. Let’s look at each of them in more detail.
Drilling
Drilling is one of the most basic types of CNC machining. It involves the use of a drill bit to make small holes in a workpiece. The drill bit is usually mounted on a spindle and is driven by a motor. CNC drills can be used to create a wide variety of hole shapes and sizes, including round, square, countersunk, and counterbored.
Milling
Milling is the process of removing material from a workpiece with a rotating cutting tool. It can be used to create a variety of shapes and sizes, including flat surfaces, curved surfaces, and pockets. CNC milling machines are typically capable of producing very precise cuts and hold extremely tight tolerances.
Turning
Turning is a machining process that involves the use of a lathe to produce cylindrical parts. The lathe is equipped with a rotating cutting tool that is used to shape the material being worked on. CNC turning is capable of producing highly precise parts with tight tolerances.
Grinding
Grinding is a machining process that uses an abrasive wheel to cut away material from a workpiece. The grinding wheel is usually made of diamond or other hard materials and is spun at high speeds. CNC grinding machines are capable of producing very precise and uniform shapes and finishes on a variety of materials.
Tapping
Tapping is a machining process that involves the use of a special type of cutting tool known as a tap. This tool is used to make internal threads in a workpiece. CNC tapping machines are able to produce accurate and consistent threads with tight tolerances.
Routing
Routing is a machining process that involves the use of a router to cut away material from a workpiece. Routers are typically used to create complex shapes and profiles in a variety of materials. CNC routing machines are capable of producing highly accurate and intricate shapes with precise tolerances.
Engraving
Engraving is a machining process that involves the use of a specialized engraving tool to create intricate shapes and designs in a workpiece. CNC engraving machines are capable of producing complex patterns and designs with tight dimensional tolerances.
EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining)
EDM is a machining process that involves the use of electrical sparks to erode material from a workpiece. It is often used to create intricate shapes and finishes that are difficult to achieve with traditional machining processes. CNC EDM machines are capable of producing highly precise shapes with tight tolerances.
Wire EDM
Wire EDM is a specialized type of EDM that involves the use of a thin wire to erode material from a workpiece. This process is especially useful for creating intricate shapes and patterns with tight tolerances. CNC wire EDM machines are capable of producing highly accurate and complex shapes with very little waste.
Broaching
Broaching is a machining process that involves the use of a special cutting tool known as a broach. This tool is used to cut away material from a workpiece. CNC broaching machines are capable of producing a wide variety of shapes and sizes with tight tolerances.
Water Jet Cutting
Water jet cutting is a machining process that uses a high-pressure stream of water to cut away material from a workpiece. This process is capable of producing complex shapes and intricate details with tight tolerances. CNC water jet cutting machines are capable of producing highly precise parts with minimal distortion.
These are the 11 main types of CNC machining. Each of these processes uses different tools and machines to create specific shapes, contours, and finishes on a variety of materials. CNC machining offers a high level of accuracy and precision, making it ideal for producing complex parts for a variety of industries.