What Is a CNC Machine: A Complete Guide
CNC machines have become one of the most valuable pieces of technology for manufacturing and design. From small and large business owners to skilled home hobbyists, individuals utilize these machine tools to create various pieces constructed of a range of metals. What is a CNC machine and how does it work? Learn more about CNC machining and how you can utilize it to ramp up production, complete more complex projects, and achieve other goals.
History
The History of the CNC Machine
The origins of the CNC machine date back to the 1940s. These first models are significantly different from the CNC machines of today, as they featured tools with attached motors that relied on a traditional form of data storage — punched tape.
The minicomputer was invented during the 1960s, which made CNC machine tools more affordable and ultimately helped them flourish. As prices dropped further and CNC machines became more accessible, they became a popular tool for domestic use by the 1980s.
Now, CNC machining plays a part in nearly every industry, and as technology advances further, it’s become more versatile. From large commercial operations to small shop projects, CNC machines are well-suited for countless applications. What’s more, CNC machining has accelerated industrialization considerably, making many consumer goods more affordable and even supporting a higher standard of living.
Definition
What IS CNC?
CNC is an acronym for computer numerical control. Therefore, a CNC machine is a computer-controlled device that helps users cut, carve, and mill designs out of raw material. You can use CNC machines with an array of tools intended for different cutting abilities, and they’re compatible with numerous materials, including metals, wood, plastics, foams, and MDF.
Explanation
How DOes A CNC Machine Work?
Part of what makes CNC machining different is the use of computer programming. Before cutting, users input steps into a software program, and the tools connected to the CNC machine carry out these commands to achieve the desired outcome.
While this process may seem robotic, CNC programming ensures you still have control over the design. Modern software has made it much easier to craft complex parts because you can outline pieces virtually, suggesting tool paths for making the parts. This can also help minimize flaws.
CNC machining uses two types of software, including:
Computer-Aided Drawing (CAD)
Most CNC projects begin with CAD software, which helps users with the design process. Some programs strictly offer CAD drawing, while others feature some CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) skills or may be integrated more smoothly with CAM software.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
CAM software helps makes the entire manufacturing process more efficient. This software allows the programmer to set paths for tools and run simulations to see how cuts may look in reality. They even help them keep their work more organized. Many CAM programs serve as add-ons to computer-aided design, generating G-code that instructs tools how to move. G-code is the most common programming language for CNC machines.
Application
What Is a CNC Machine Used For?
From cabinet making and automotive to aerospace and guitars, CNC machines can be employed for almost any use. Additionally, as they’re compatible with many materials, they’re helpful for woodworking and metalworking alike. Industries utilizing CNC machining include:
- Art (33%)
- Prototyping (25%)
- Cabinetry & Furniture (17%)
- Machine Parts (17%)
- Signage (8%)
"Anything you can draw, anything you want to put together,
it can cut"
Mark Gomez
CEO Botany Unlimited Design System
Elements
CNC Anatomy: Components of a CNC Machine
Many types of CNC machines are available, and each serves a distinct purpose. However, most CNC machines feature similar components vital to getting the job done. These include:
Controller
Laguna utilizes cutting-edge CNC and motion control systems for a wide range of applications – from basic high-volume, high-repetition commodity production, to unique, highly complex parts that require the highest precision and advanced machining techniques. We have controls, software, motion controllers, drives, and motors to meet all machining needs and budgets.
Gantry
Laguna CNCs provide up to 12 inches of clearance and construction with heavy-walled welded tubular steel that has been designed to achieve the highest cutting forces and vibration reduction.
Spindle
HSD quick-change air-cooled and liquid-cooled milling motor spindles are world leaders in the machining of wood, aluminum, and plastics. The spindles, produced in their thousands, are characterized by their extremely high reliability and the wide range of powers and operating speeds available.
Controller
Laguna utilizes cutting-edge CNC and motion control systems for a wide range of applications - from basic high-volume, high-repetition commodity production, to unique, highly complex parts that require the highest precision and advanced machining techniques. We have controls, software, motion controllers, drives, and motors to meet all machining needs and budgets.
Vacuum Table
Laguna CNC machines offer both Hi-flow and Pod-ready vacuum tables that outperform the competition and provide more flexibility, allowing you to choose how best to hold your material.
Drive System
For accuracy and long-term durability, Laguna CNCs are equipped with helical racks and pinions on the x and y-axis. Helical rack and pinion drive systems are the industry standard on ALL high-end CNC machines. Don’t be fooled by the small majority of CNC manufacturers that still use antiquated ball screw technology on a moving gantry machine.
Spindle
HSD quick-change air-cooled and liquid-cooled milling motor spindles are world leaders in the machining of wood, aluminum, and plastics. The spindles, produced in their thousands, are characterized by their extremely high reliability and the wide range of powers and operating speeds available.
Gantry
Laguna CNCs provide up to 12 inches of clearance and construction with heavy-walled welded tubular steel that has been designed to achieve the highest cutting forces and vibration reduction.
Efficiency
What makes CNC so efficient?
The efficiency of CNC machining operations can be attributed to nested-based manufacturing. This system enables CNC machinists to produce groups of specific parts from flat materials, such as wood panels or plastic sheets, then use programming to make the cuts. These parts are nested together to maximize the number of components that you can machine using a single piece of material.
Think of nested manufacturing as rolling out dough and arranging cookie cutters to make the most of the dough. Similarly, by organizing your cuts on the flat material to reduce unusable space, you decrease manufacturing waste. In this way, CNC machining also offers a more environmentally-conscious means of manufacturing.
Possibilities
What Can a CNC Machine Do?
The various kinds of CNC machines feature different tolerances and configurations, meaning there’s a machine ideal for your applications. It’s helpful to review these types to understand exactly what CNC machines do. Consider the following types to determine which CNC is right for you
CNC Routers
Router-based milling machines are the most common CNC tool. These versatile machines can drill, edge, pocket, perform 3D cutting, and have many other capabilities. They also feature incredible speeds — they can cut up to 1200 inches per minute (IPM) and make rapid movements up to 3000 IPM. CNC routers are often used to cut pieces with large dimensions out of different materials.
CNC CO2 Lasers & Fiber Lasers
While two different types of CNC machines, CO2 and fiber lasers share several qualities. For one, they can each be applied to a range of materials, including acrylic, wood, and leather. They also can create more complex, custom parts more efficiently without forsaking precision. Use these CNC machines to cut, engrave, and etch. For engraving on metal, fiber lasers at the ideal choice.
CNC Plasma Cutters
As the name suggests, CNC plasma cutters utilize powerful plasma torches to cut pieces. A combination of compressed-air gas and electrical arcs produces the heat and speed necessary to generate the plasma. CNC plasma cutting is most often used for metals, but it can also be employed for other materials.
CNC Turners
CNC turners deliver increased accuracy at higher velocities. They work by spinning a workpiece against a cutting tool, moving the drill bit from side to side until it reaches the piece to cut.
Tools
Tools Used with CNC Machines
Another benefit of CNC machines is the ability to pair with different tools and find new applications. To expand your uses of CNC machining, discover some of the most common components incorporated into CNC systems:
- Laser Cutters
- Wood Routers
- 3D Printers
- Glass Cutters
- Foam Cutters
- Embroidery Machines
- Cylindrical Grinders
- Turret Punchers
- Wire-Bending Machines
CNC Cost
How Much Do CNC Machines Cost?
A common question about CNC machines is their cost. The size and capabilities of the machine will dictate cost, so the best way to understand possible pricing for your needs is to consult with a CNC specialist.
Some CNC machines, like the IQ desktop router, are designed for home applications. Skilled hobbyists who want to increase their production and potentially sell their pieces may consider these types of machines, which generally cost a few thousand dollars. Other CNC machines are better suited for high-end, industrial production and can cost as much as $100,000 or more, depending on the accessories you need.
The average price for all types of CNC machines is about $15,000. CNC machines are a considerable investment, but users can explore ways to offset the cost through financing or government funding, as well as by maintaining low operating costs per hour.
Where To Buy
Find Top-Quality CNC Machines at Laguna Tools
No matter what you hope to use a CNC machine to achieve, Laguna Tools has the selection you need to get started. For more than 40 years, we’ve been a leading and trusted provider of CNCs and other industry machinery. Our innovative CNC machines cater to the diverse applications of different industries, and all feature premium components for superior performance and precision. We offer the following CNC machines at Laguna Tools:
