What CNC means

CNC machines use computer numerical control to ensure efficiency, speed and precision when machining the blank. 

There are different types of CNC machines on the market, also depending on the type of processing you want to perform. 

In this article we see together the meaning of the acronym CNC, which are the most used machines and the main technical characteristics.

What CNC means

The term CNC comes from English and stands for "Computer Numerical Control". This acronym indicates that the machine is controlled by an internal electronic device which processes the information entered in the work program and controls the movement of the mechanical parts during processing. 

It is important not to confuse CNC machines with robots as they exploit a very different technology and are able to independently modify the machining according to the surrounding environment.

What are CNC machines

The line of CNC machines consists of several models and the technology varies depending on the type of processing. 

Traditional CNC machines are:

CNC drilling machines

Used to drill material through a rotary movement and a drilling bit.

CNC lathe

It works in the opposite way to the drilling machine, that is, in this case it is the material that has a rotary movement with respect to the tool.

CNC milling machines

It is the most widely used among CNC technologies for both industrial and artisanal processing. In this case, the milling cutter uses a series of movements to shape the material, which is fixed to the worktop.

In addition to these 3 types, computer numerical control can also be applied to other processes, such as CNC laser cutting, CNC plasma cutting and in waterjet or EDM machines.

CNC Technology

CNC technology allows safe and quality machining. The materials suitable for CNC machines are different and depend on two main factors: their composition and the type of processing to be carried out. 

In any case, machining with CNC machines guarantees versatility, precision and great customisation capacity of the machined piece.

Generally, CNC machines are composed of 4 main elements:

• Encoder (for monitoring axis activities);
• Electric motors (to drive the movements of the axes);
• Drives (to trigger machine movements);
• Computer (the "brain" of the machine that translates the instructions and executes them).

All these components and the different processing phases (from design to the activation of the machine for processing) must be supervised by an operator. In addition, the machine may require parts to be replaced during processing or may become jammed due to the residual material being discarded. The presence of personnel is therefore essential for the success of the work. 

Conclusions

CNC machines are controlled by an integrated software that receives the information and acts on the blank by checking the correct parameters during machining.

CNC machines are very common in industrial production chains, especially when it comes to CNC milling machines.

In general, the preparation of the information to be sent to the machine and the machining of the piece by it are quite simple procedures. However, it is important to remember to properly prepare the work area, make sure of the information contained in the program and monitor the machine parameters based on the material on which you want to work. Taking all these precautions into account, machining using CNC machines guarantees a finished product in a short time, of excellent quality and at low prices.