CNC Machine Tools

What are CNC machine tools?

• CNC is an abbreviation of the English “Computer Numerical Control”, which is a method to automate the control of machine tools. Through the use of the accurate measurement involving electronics and control systems, common (manual) machine tools become CNC machine tools.
• Therefore, if the machine is equipped with a control system, it is a CNC machine. Thus, CNC milling machines, CNC lathes, CNC drills and other CNC machine tools are made. The most common systems of CNC machine tools include HEIDENHAIN and FANUC.

How is machining done with CNC machines?

• Generally, machining is a technological process, in which a certain object is given the desired shape by means of material removal.

Precision of CNC Machine Tools

• CNC does not necessarily mean ideal and precise. CNC machines are also significantly affected by the human factor that determines the result. For example, good product clamping, a suitable tool, suitable machining technology, cleanliness, these all are decisive factors.
• However, such a machine usually does precisely what its operator requires. Therefore, CNC machining is often overestimated.
• In any case, CNC machines have speeded up production and made it more precise. This applies mainly to lot production. In piece production, a conventional (manual) machine is sometimes faster. However, we have 2D or 2.5D work in view. When it comes to 3D spatial machining, CNC machine tools are often irreplaceable.
• Due to the fact, that even the construction works in 3D, CNC machines bring extraordinary results.

What materials can be machined with CNC machine tools?

• CNC machine tools can machine a wide range of materials. Almost all materials, such as steel, alloys, aluminum alloys, copper alloys, plastics, wood and many more can be CNC-machined, CNC-milled, CNC-turned and CNC-drilled.
• Various shapes, both 2D and 3D, whatever the creative mind of today’s designer can come up with.

What are the advantages of CNC machine tools?

• CNC machine tools can reduce the number of intermediate states in the production process, which speeds up the production significantly. Another advantage consists in significant cost savings. We must also not forget the precision of CNC machines.