What Types of CNC Machines Are There?

The top two considerations when choosing a CNC machining center for your application are their function and number of axes. 

The following are common CNC machines and their functions.

• Mill: A CNC mill is the most common type available. The machine rotates a cutting tool to remove material from a stationary workpiece. Milling tools can move horizontally or vertically across three to six axes.

• Lathe: A CNC lathe cuts and shapes workpieces while they rotate around a central axis. It can also perform sanding, drilling, turning and facing functions.

• Router: A CNC router carves designs into the surface of flat, soft materials on a worktable. The tool usually moves across the X, Y and Z axes and can also cut, mill and drill.

• Plasma cutter: A CNC plasma cutter uses a torch to cut heavy materials on a worktable. The tool’s nozzle blows gas, which an electric spark ignites and turns into plasma. The extreme temperatures can easily cut through metals.

• Laser cutter: CNC laser cutters are similar to plasma cutters, but use a laser instead. You can adjust the laser’s intensity depending on what you need to shape.

• Water jet: CNC jet cutters cut or carve materials using high-pressure water. This cooler process is essential for applications where heat can cause damage, such as with rubber, foam and plastic.

• Electric discharge: An electric discharge machine is a unique CNC machine that uses electrical arcs to cut and mold materials. It only works on conductive materials, usually hardened or heat-treated metals.