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The Basics Of CNC Machining
CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) machining is a means to remove material with high precision machines, using a wide variety of cutting tools to create the final design. Common CNC machines include vertical milling machines, horizontal milling machines, lathes, routers.

How CNC Machining Works
To successfully make a part on a CNC machine, skilled machinists create programmed instructions using CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software in conjunction with the CAD (Computer Aided Design) model provided by the customer. The CAD model is loaded into the CAM software and tool paths are created based on the required geometry of the manufactured part. Once the tool paths are determined, the CAM software creates G-Code (machine code) that tells the machine how fast to move, how fast to turn the stock and/or tool, and where to move the tool or workpiece in a 5-axis X, Y, Z, A, and B coordinate system.

Types Of CNC Machining
There are several types of CNC machine — namely the CNC lathe, CNC mill, CNC router, and Wire EDM.

With a CNC lathe, the part stock turns on the spindle and the fixed cutting tool is brought into contact with the workpiece. Lathes are perfect for cylindrical parts and are easily set up for repeatability. Conversely, on a CNC mill the rotating cutting tool moves around the workpiece, which remains fixed to a bed. Mills are all-purpose CNC machines that can handle most any machining process.

CNC machines can be simple 2-axis machines where only the tool head moves in the X and Z-axes or much more complex 5-axis CNC mills, where the workpiece can also move. This allows for more complex geometries without requiring extra operator work and expertise. This makes it easier to produce complex parts and reduces the chance of operator error.