When we refer to CNC, this means “computer numerical control” and refers to how manufacturing tools or machines can be commanded through computer programming. These machines use a language known as g-code, which was developed in the 1950s. There are numerous types of Chicago CNC equipment types, but a few are most common due to their versatility of function.
- Retrofitted Machines
A retrofitted machine is a machine that was built without CNC but has been updated to now use the technology. This gives the machines more functionality and efficiency. Some of the most common retrofitted machines include grinders, milling machines, and lathes.
- Lathes
Lathes rotate some sort of material by use of a single. The material is then pressed against a tool that will cut or shape it as it spins. Lathes are often used to produce symmetrical objects such as spheres, cylinders, and cones.
- Milling Machines
A milling machine uses a rotary cutter to cut many different types of material. The CNC commands give the machine information about the direction, angle, and depth of the cut. Milling machines that use CNC technology are much more precise than older milling machines.
- Grinders
With a grinder, a spinning wheel is used to abrade, grate, or mold materials into a specific shape. This is the easiest CNC machine to program because there isn’t as much precision required when compared to a lathe or milling machine.
- Routers
A router is a machine that can cut sheet metal, wood, and plastic on the X, Y, and Z axis. This machine is most often used in the manufacture of large scale products. Three-dimensional routers are the most common, but they also come in four, five, and six axes for special products.
- 3-D Printer
You may not think of 3-D printers when someone says CNC, but the technology from CNC has allowed for the innovation in 3-D printing. What a printer does is utilize hot plastic which is pushed through a small hole time after time to build layers until you have the final product.
- Plasma & Laser Cutters
This type of cutter is used for jobs where other cutting tools are not sufficient. Plasma and laser cutters can burn through nearly any material, while being precise enough to create any angle or shape you want.
- Chicago CNC Equipment
If you are looking for affordable CNC equipment, make sure you visit CC Machine tools.
