What Is CNC Machining And What Is It Used For?

Posted by tedmark on February 21st, 2013

CNC machining has been around for a number of years, decades even, in some form or other. The question is what is CNC machining and what is it used for currently? Is CNC machining different than CNC milling? We will try to answer all of these.

You may be asking yourself what CNC is. CNC stands for computer numerical control. Essentially it means that computers control the precision of work using numerical input like formulas and codes. CNC machining just means that machines are controlled by the computer system while they work. It has various applications and is used for the creation of parts, such as the ones used in the automobile industry and to create prototypes and for subassembly. CNC machining is especially helpful in creating smaller parts and ones, which are more complex than can be manufactured by standard or older model lathes. Speciality parts often require equipment with fourth and fifth axes, which mean that the product can be worked at an angle rather than strictly horizontally or vertically.

For the second question, the short answer is that CNC milling is different from CNC machining. To go into a bit more depth we will have to describe a little bit more about a couple processes. There are different ways to make certain parts and the difference between CNC milling and CNC machining is how those parts are created. With CNC machining, the part being worked on it held fixed, clamped in place, while the tool, which cuts into the piece, is the movable object. In CNC milling, the difference is that the cutting tool is fixed in place, while the object itself is moved around to make the proper cuts. End results may be the same, so the issue is more about efficiency and which type of system works best for particular projects. Both CNC machining processes as well as CNC milling processes are still used today.

We have already covered a little bit of the uses of this kind of machinery, but we will reiterate for the sake of ease. CNC machining and/or CNC milling may be used if you have an invention and want to have something tangible to show prospective investors. You could approach a CNC machining company to have them create a prototype from your schematics. Parts which are uniquely shaped and difficult to manufacture with standard technology need top of the line CNC equipment to produce large quantities of the materials without paying exorbitant prices. Efficiency is another purpose for the use of these CNC machines. Precision work allows for easy replication of metal parts like brackets and can be kept in stock so that rush orders are quickly accommodated. These type of machines, while a bit costly at first, actually help to reduce the cost of producing items by providing accurate, quality, bulk orders in a fairly small amount of time. Many of the machines need minimal supervision, which also saves companies money on the number of employees needed.

Hemlock Ltd in the UK offer complete machined component solutions including slidinghead turning, CNC machining etc.

Learn more about CNC machining and CNC milling services here at The Hemlock Group website.