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12 Types of CNC Machines

Learn more about the different types of CNC machines and how they are
used in manufacturing.

By Team Xometry
 9 min read
October 4, 2022

What is a CNC machine? A CNC machine is a programmable machine that can

autonomously performing the operations of CNC machining. CNC stands for
‘computer numerical control’, and the CNC machining definition is a
subtractive manufacturing process that typically employs computerized
subtractive manufacturing process that typically employs computerized
controls and machine tools to remove layers of material from a stock piece—
known as the blank or workpiece—and produces a custom-designed part. This
article explains what the different types of CNC machines are and how they
work.

1. Pick and Place Machine

The pick and place machine has many nozzles that lift electrical components
for electronic equipment and place them in the correct location. Pick and place
machines are usually used to manufacture cell phones, computers, tablets,
and other electronic devices.

2. 3D Printer

A 3D printer, or an additive manufacturing machine, is a CNC machine in which

elements are printed layer-by-layer. The CAD and CAM process creates the
product’s design and drawing. Then the 3D printer is used to reflect that
design. The 3D printer CNC machine is often used for prototyping. For more
information, see our guide on 3D printing.

3. Router CNC Machine

A router CNC machine is similar to a CNC mill but is generally used for
machining softer materials and is typically less precise than CNC Mills. CNC
routers are characterized by their ability to use computer numerical control to
route spindle and machine tool paths to design and shape materials like wood,
steel, foam, composites, aluminum, and plastic.

CNC routers normally consist of stepper motors, stepper drivers, a mechanical

base, a spindle, controllers, and a power supply. CNC routers reduce waste,
increase productivity and accuracy, and produce products faster.

4. Drilling CNC Machine

Drilling employs rotating drill bits to produce the cylindrical holes in the
workpiece. The drill bit’s design allows the waste metal—i.e., chips—to fall
away from the workpiece. There are several types of drill bits, each of which is
used for a specific application. Types of drill bits available include spotting
drills, peck drills, screw machine drills, and chucking reamers.

5. Lathe CNC Machine

Turning employs single-point cutting tools to remove material from the

rotating workpiece. The design of the turning tool varies based on the
particular application, with tools available for roughing, finishing, facing,
threading, forming, undercutting, parting, and grooving applications.

The CNC turning process also utilizes CNC-enabled lathes or turning machines.
The types of CNC lathes include turret lathes, engine lathes, and special-
purpose lathes.

6. 5-Axis CNC Machine

A 5-axis CNC machine adds to the traditional machine tool’s 3-axis linear
motions (X, Y, Z) two rotational axes to provide the machine tool access to five
out of six part sides in a single operation. By adding a tilting, rotating work
holding fixture (or trunnion) to the work table, the mill becomes what is called
a 3+2, or an indexed or positional, machine, enabling the milling cutter to
approach five out of six sides of a prismatic workpiece at 90° without an
operator having to reset the workpiece to machine different sides. A 5-acis
CNC machine is often used to make sculptures.

7. Milling CNC Machine

Milling employs rotating multi-point cutting tools to shape the workpiece.

Milling tools are either horizontally or vertically oriented, including end mills,
helical mills, and chamfer mills.

The CNC milling process also utilizes CNC-enabled milling machinery, referred
to as mill machines or mills, which can be horizontally or vertically oriented.
to as mill machines or mills, which can be horizontally or vertically oriented.
Basic mills can have three-axis movements, with more advanced models
accommodating additional axes. The types of mills available include hand,
plain, universal, and omniversal milling machines.

8. Plasma Cutting CNC Machine

Plasma cutting CNC machines cut materials. They use a plasma torch to cut
through their materials. The main condition for CNC plasma cutting machines
is that the material or workpiece to be cut must be electrically conductive.
Some of the typical materials used with plasma cutting are brass, copper,
aluminum, steel, and stainless steel.

A CNC plasma cutting machine has a high-powered torch that can cut through
even the toughest materials, like titanium and steel. In a CNC plasma cutting
machine, the high-powered torch is created by passing high-velocity gas
through a nozzle.

When the torch is created, an electric arc is produced. The arc forms through
the high-velocity gas and jumps onto the material being cut, changing some of
the high-velocity gas into plasma, electronically ionized gas.

9. Laser Cutting CNC Machine

Several types of laser cutting machines are available, categorized into gas,
liquid, and solid-state lasers. The types are differentiated based on the state of
the active laser medium—i.e., whether the medium is a gas, liquid, or solid
material—and what the active laser medium consists of (e.g., CO2, Nd:YAG,
etc.). The main two types of lasers employed are CO2 and solid-state lasers.

One of the most commonly employed gas state lasers, a CO2 laser uses a
carbon dioxide mixture as the active laser medium. CO2 lasers typically cut
non-metal materials since the early machine models were not powerful
enough to cut through metals. Laser technology has since progressed enough
that CO2 lasers can cut through metals. However, CO2 lasers are still better
suited for cutting through non-metals and organic materials and simply
engraving metals or other hard materials. Pure nitrogen lasers are another
commonly used gas state laser. These lasers are used for applications that
require the material not to oxidize as it is cut.
10. Electric Discharge CNC Machine

Electric discharge CNC machines are also known as spark CNC machines. They
are a special type of CNC machine that uses electric sparks to manage
materials to the desired shape.

Electrical discharge has a transient effect, meaning it can degrade the

elements from which it is presented. The electric discharge CNC machines take
advantage of this by designing controlled sparks to reshape materials. The
workpieces are placed between the top and bottom of the electrode. The
computer then decides the amount of electrical discharge the electrodes
produce.

11. Grinding CNC Machine

A grinding CNC machine is a  precision performance tool that uses a rotating

wheel to cut metal away from the metal. CNC grinding machines are typically
used for camshafts, ball bearings, transmission shafts, and other working
pieces, which require an accurate and correct finish. Numerous pieces made
using a CNC grinding machine are cylindrical.

12. CNC Machine with Automatic Tool Changes

The automatic tool changer CNC machine develops the machine’s tool carrying
capacity and production rate and improves the machine’s capacity to work
with many tools. This type of CNC machine changes tools very quickly and
efficiently handles and changes worn out or broken tools.

This CNC machine reduces non-productive time during the machining process.
A CNC machine with automatic tool changes is an ideal step toward complete
automation.

What is a CNC Machine?

A CNC machine is a machining system that is managed by a computer. They
enable manufacturers to automate many manufacturing operations that
would otherwise have to be done manually.

As a result, CNC-powered machines increase productivity, decrease waste, and

even eliminate the risk of human error. In addition, CNC machines can create
many products by using actuators, drives, and software programs. There are
many different types of CNC machines.

How to Select the Best CNC Machine Type

The best CNC machine type is selected by knowing what CNC process you want
to use and what materials you are working with. Some key considerations are
the machine’s weight, the work radius, the machine’s speed, the availability of
spare parts, and power consumption.

The common materials used in constructing CNC machines are aluminum,

polymer composite, and iron cast. The iron cast is the best build when you
need a durable machine for tough jobs. Other materials are suitable for lighter
tasks.

Your CNC machine should be larger than the maximum area for your
products. Your machine must have a radius bigger than the largest material
you cut. It would help if you considered the feed rate when selecting the best
CNC machine type. It determines the rate you can cut materials during the
manufacturing processes.

Like any other appliance, a CNC machine may break down or wear down with
use. You should ensure that your technicians can easily repair the brand that
you purchase and that the spare parts are available. This will reduce machine
downtime.

Depending on the machine you choose, you may need to increase the power
available in the workshop. Checking the power requirements of your machine
and making the necessary adjustments at the workplace is essential.

How Are CNC Machines Classified?

CNC machines are typically classified by the processes they perform.

Are CNC Machines Expensive?

The most expensive CNC machines are the 6-axis and 5-axis robotic CNCs used
in manufacturing high-end military equipment and cost millions of dollars.
However, there are also very affordable CNC machines that can be used by
entry-level hobbyists that cost as little as $150. Larger machines are more
expensive than smaller machines but can create more products faster.

Who Are the Top Manufacturers of CNC Machines?

The top manufacturers of CNC machines, according to Fortune Business

Insights, are Yamazaki Mazak Corporation, Doosan Machine Tools Co., Trumpf,
Amada Machine Tools Co., JTEKT Corporation, Schuler AG, Makino, Hyundai
WIA, Komatsu Ltd., and Haas Automation Inc.

Summary

This article presented 12 different types of CNC machines, explained what they
are, and discussed each are used in manufacturing. To learn more about types
of CNC machines, contact a Xometry representative.

Xometry provides a wide range of manufacturing capabilities, including CNC

machining and other value-added services for all of your prototyping and
production needs. Visit our website to learn more or to request a free, no-
obligation quote.

Disclaimer

The content appearing on this webpage is for informational purposes only. Xometry
makes no representation or warranty of any kind, be it expressed or implied, as to
the accuracy, completeness, or validity of the information. Any performance
parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, quality and types of
materials, or processes should not be inferred to represent what will be delivered
by third-party suppliers or manufacturers through Xometry’s network. Buyers
seeking quotes for parts are responsible for defining the specific requirements for
those parts. Please refer to our terms and conditions for more information.

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Team Xometry
This article was written by various Xometry contributors. Xometry is a
leading resource on manufacturing with CNC machining, sheet metal
fabrication, 3D printing, injection molding, urethane casting, and more.

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