A CNC (computer numerical control) machine is an electro-mechanical appliance for manipulating machine equipment using inputs of computer programming. With CNC machining, you can transform materials into a prototype. CNC manufacturing depends on digital instructions from the CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) or CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. CNC metal manufacturing involves two categories: novel manufacturing technologies and conventional manufacturing technologies.

1. Electrochemical machining

This CNC machining process gets rid of material from the workpiece when creating the needed shape. It involves the use of an electrolyte solution as well as an electrical current in changing the workpiece. The workpiece material has to be conductive to electricity for the success of the process. This process creates an incredible shiny surface finish because there is zero contact between the tool and the workpiece. Moreover, there is no production of residual stress force. Due to zero contact and friction between the device and workpiece, there is less heat generation.

2. Plasma cutting

This process involves the cutting of electrically conductive materials using hot plasma. Some of the materials include stainless steel, aluminium and copper. Plasma is an effective method of cutting both thin and thick materials. What's more, plasma torches produce a highly localized and ionized gas that is very useful in metal sheet cutting in angled or curved shapes.

3. CNC milling devices

Milling is the act of cutting the workpiece using a mill. The mill consists of cutters and rotating spindles that slice off chips from the workpiece. The milling machines can cut in 3 dimensions known as the X, Y and Z axes. A CNC control triggers the stepper or servo motor that controls each axis. The most sophisticated milling appliances are known as machining centres.

4. Router machining

Routers are conventional CNC machines that cut as well as engrave metal, wood or plastic. The operator applies a set of instructions to the computer that manipulates the router to yield the desired output. A router has no human interface and has the three-axis Cartesian design coordinate that enables cutting from three dimensions. Nonetheless, there are routers with other designs that are useful in cutting intricate shapes and prototype models.

CNC machining is gaining popularity due to to the increased dependence on computers by industrial manufacturing activities. CNC machining offers more efficiency in production since computers could be automated to boost the quality and speed of manufacturing. CNC machining also allows more accuracy since you can enter each detail into the machine.