There are various types of CNC machines, each of which has its own unique advantages and capabilities. Different machining possibilities can be achieved depending on the specific machine's capabilities, number of axes, and the orientation of the cutting tools. Some of the most common CNC machining processes include:

CNC Milling

CNC Milling uses a rotating multi-point cutter to remove excess material from a workpiece as it is fed to the cutting tool. The rotating cutter can move along different axes with high precision to create parts with complex geometries. Prototypes or final parts can be manufactured quickly with great accuracy and repeatability.

Vertical CNC Machining

Vertical CNC machining is a form of milling wherein the spindle axis and associated cutting tools are vertically oriented with respect to the bed of the machine. The cutting tools point downward from the tool holder and are typically used to cut across the top of the workpiece's surface.

Horizontal CNC Machining

Horizontal CNC machining, also a form of milling, uses cutters that are mounted on a horizontal spindle. The cutters come out from the side of the tool holder and cut across the side of the workpiece's surface, allowing chips of material to fall away from the table.

CNC Turning

Converse to milling, CNC turning uses a single-point cutter to remove material from a spinning workpiece that is being held in a chuck. A CNC lathe or turning machine feeds the cutter in a linear motion along the rotating workpiece, removing excess material to produce highly accurate round or tubular shapes. Like milling, turning can rapidly create both prototypes and final parts.

Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

Wire EDM is used for cutting electrically-conductive materials. An electrically-charged wire held between two mechanical guides acts as one electrode, while the workpiece being cut acts as the second electrode. The electrical discharge generated between the wire and the workpiece creates sparks that cut material away from the workpiece. As there is no cutting force involved, wire EDM is well-suited for producing tiny and delicate parts with intricate details.

Metal Machining

Metal CNC machining uses computer-operated cutting tools to selectively remove material away from a metal workpiece, shaping it into the desired configuration. A wide variety of common metals are compatible with CNC machining processes, such as aluminum, copper, and steel.

Plastic Machining

CNC machining can also be used to create custom-designed components and products from various types of plastic, including acrylics, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and many others. Plastic machining may involve one or more of the above processes, which create design shapes by selectively cutting away materials from a plastic workpiece.

Selecting the Right CNC Machine for the Job

When making CNC machined parts, it is important to figure out which type of machine is most suitable for the parts in question. Every machine has its pros and cons, but it is difficult to find every kind of CNC machine in one place -- except maybe at a machine trade show, or in a CNC shop willing to invest lots of money. If the most suitable machine is not available, you need to find a way to make the parts with the machines that are available. Here are some explanations of each type of CNC machine. Check out the pros and cons.

Figuring Out the Best Way to Load the Workpieces

When you have chosen the CNC machine to make your parts, the next step -- before programing -- is to find the best way to load your workpieces in order to gain the best machined result. I believe this stage is more important than making the tool paths, but in my experience most machinists have a difficult time with it, and it prevents them from moving forward smoothly. As a prototype machining company, we try to hire people who have an open mind and are able to find solutions in this area, since we come across different CNC parts every day. (Of course, some people quit the job within two weeks!) Check out the different loading methods. Check out the different loading methods.

Knowing What Type of Cutting Tool to Use

After choosing the machines and deciding on the best way to make the parts, selecting the right cutting tools will help to achieve a tighter tolerance and better surface finish. In short, suitable cutting tools result in better components. Here’s an example: milling ribs with draft might take hours using normal sphere cutting tools, but would require just a few minutes with a taper cutter. So imagine how much time you could save when milling 10 pieces or more. Find out the differences between types of cutting tool. Find out the differences between types of cutting tool.