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What is CNC Machining? Types, Advantages & Applications
The emergence of CNC machining has marked a major breakthrough in mechanical processing. Today, this technology is being applied widely across most mechanical manufacturing units, helping reduce costs and boost machining productivity. So, what is CNC machining and which CNC machine types are popular today? Explore the detailed information in the article below.
What is CNC machining?
CNC machining, also known as precision machining using CNC machines, is a manufacturing method that uses machines controlled by Computer Numerical Control (CNC). This method is applied to create mechanical parts with high accuracy, helping optimize time and production costs compared with traditional mechanical machining.
Advantages and disadvantages of CNC machining
Advantages
- High precision: CNC machining can produce components with exceptional accuracy, with tolerances of approximately 0.001 mm, ensuring consistency in production. This machining method is suitable for complex parts, especially for materials that are very hard or brittle.
- High flexibility: CNC technology can machine from simple to complex parts. In addition, its flexibility allows engineers to easily program and reconfigure machines when producing new products or adjusting programs.
- Increased efficiency: This machining technology boosts productivity thanks to fast, continuous operations, enhancing the ability to mass-production in a short time and quickly meeting market demand.
- Reduced occupational safety risks: Automation in CNC machining minimizes interaction between humans and machines, thereby reducing the risk of workplace accidents. Moreover, CNC machines are often designed with safety features and can automatically stop when a problem is detected, ensuring a safe working environment.
- Cost savings: CNC mechanical machining helps optimize production costs by minimizing material waste and labor expenses.
Disadvantages
- High investment and repair costs: Investing in and installing CNC machining equipment requires a large initial capital outlay. Although CNC machines rarely fail, repair and maintenance can be costly when issues occur. Therefore, operating CNC machinery can be challenging for businesses with limited financial resources.
- Requires highly skilled operators: CNC machines operate based on computer programs and involve complex operations, so operators must have a high level of expertise. Finding qualified personnel can be challenging, especially given the limited supply of skilled labor in the Vietnamese job market.
Comparison between CNC machining and traditional mechanical machining
| Criteria | CNC machining | Traditional mechanical machining |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | High precision, typically with tolerances within a few micrometers. | Lower because it depends on the skill and experience of the machinist. |
| Machining speed | Faster thanks to computer automation and motors that can run continuously, helping increase production speed as well as efficiency in the machining process. | Often slower because machining operations are performed manually. |
| Cost | High initial investment in machinery but cuts a large portion of labor costs and increases production efficiency. | Low initial investment but labor costs may be high. |
| Flexibility & consistency | High flexibility, precision, and consistency; capable of machining many materials and complex shapes. | Often lacks high consistency and flexibility, as it largely depends on the craftsman’s skill. |
| Skill requirements & labor expertise | Requires programming, operation, and management skills for CNC machines. | Requires machining skills and the craftsman’s experience. |
| Applications |
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CNC machining terminology
2D machining
A profiling method on a single plane; the CNC machine does not act on the Z height of the workpiece. Only the X and Y axes move simultaneously to generate lines, tapers, arcs, etc.
2.5D machining
Machining of flat and inclined faces; not applied to true freeform (curved) surfaces.
3D machining
The most widely used method today, suitable for parts with contours and curved/freeform surfaces.
4-axis machining (4-axis)
Machining with a rotary axis, typically for cylindrical work. During machining, four axes move (simultaneously for true 4-axis machining). If an indexer (rotary axis for indexing only) is added, it is called 3+1 machining or non-simultaneous 4-axis machining.
5-axis machining (5-axis)
Machining with axes, where five axes move simultaneously during operation. If the machine adds indexing capability to position the part for cutting, it is called 3+2 machining or non-simultaneous 5-axis machining.
Mill-Turn CNC (CNC machining center)
A CNC machine that integrates milling and turning on the same platform.
HSM — High-Speed Machining
High-Speed Machining (HSM) is a CNC method using very high spindle speeds with small radial engagement, high feed rates, and large axial depths of cut. The specialized machine for this method is a High-Speed Cutting (HSC) milling machine, with spindle speed S exceeding 42,000 rpm and feed rate F over 40,000 mm/min.
VMC (Vertical Machining Center)
Vertical machining center — a CNC machine with a vertically oriented spindle, perpendicular to the table.
HMC (Horizontal Machining Center)
Horizontal machining center — a CNC machine with a horizontally oriented spindle, parallel to the table.
GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
A system for specifying and communicating geometric features, dimensions, and tolerances, documented by engineers through technical drawings.
Programming datum / machining datum (Work Coordinate System — WCS)
The process of establishing the relative position between the part and the cutting tool on a CNC machine to ensure every feature is located and sized as required.
Coolant / cutting fluid
Coolant (cutting fluid) used in CNC machining to cool, clean, and lubricate the cutting zone.
Fixture
A critical workholding device used to locate the raw workpiece relative to the cutting tool on a CNC machine and to clamp it securely under cutting forces, ensuring stability and machining accuracy.
CNC milling (3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis)
Refers to milling with simultaneous control of 3, 4, or 5 axes.
Workpiece
The raw part or component being machined.
Machine Simulation
A realistic simulation mode that reproduces the machine run within the CAM/CNC software. It creates a virtual CNC machine model with fixtures, workpiece, and tools; it visualizes tool motion and helps evaluate potential collisions.
Multiaxis
Advanced toolpaths for CNC milling with simultaneous multi-axis motion (4-axis, 5-axis).
Setup sheet
A document created by the programmer for manufacturing the part and then delivered to machine operators to configure CNC parameters. Common information on a setup sheet includes:
- NC program name
- Operation names
- Cutting conditions for each operation
- Tool specifications to be used
- Estimated machining time
Tool Manager
A register used to manage all tools employed throughout the machining process.
Toolpaths
A CAM function that organizes 2D, 3D, and multiaxis toolpath strategies.
Test Cut
A trial process after programming to verify machine performance and assess the machining quality and accuracy on an actual part.
Common CNC machine types
CNC milling machine
One of the most common machine types in metalworking. The workpiece is clamped on the table and cutting tools act on its surfaces under computer control to produce high-precision parts.
With configurations from 3 to 5 axes, CNC mills can perform a wide range of operations—from gear manufacturing to drilling and slotting—across industries such as automotive, woodworking, and aerospace.
CNC lathe
An essential tool in CNC machining that uses rotary and linear tool motion to process stock. It produces cylindrical parts with various surfaces—threads, round features, shafts, and tapers—through external turning, internal turning, tapering, drilling, grooving, and parting.
CNC drilling machine
A machining tool that uses a multi-point drill rotating perpendicular to the work surface to create cylindrical holes. Suitable for through holes, bolt holes, and threaded holes for assembly. CNC drilling is widely used in mass production thanks to its capability to drill diverse materials and multiple positions simultaneously while maintaining speed and accuracy.
CNC grinding machine
A specialized tool for grinding cutters and cutting tools; ideal for cylindrical or complex surfaces and for very hard or brittle materials. Adoption is increasing due to high automation for in-machine measurement and tool compensation.
CNC laser cutting machine
Among the most advanced equipment in precision engineering. It uses CNC control and a laser beam to cut along 2D profiles, suitable for thin metals such as stainless steel and mild steel.
CNC plasma cutting machine
Similar to CNC milling in purpose (material removal) but using a high-temperature, accelerated plasma arc through an electrically conductive material to cut. Plasma cutters can cut thick metals at high power and are often used for decorative patterns and base plates.
EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining)
Also known as spark erosion or electrical discharge machining. It removes material from the workpiece using a series of rapid, high-energy electrical discharges between two electrodes, separated by a dielectric fluid and driven by an applied voltage; often using tubular copper electrodes.
EDM is applied to hard metals and precision mechanical components with high hardness, accuracy, and complex profiles that other machining methods cannot achieve.
Notes when choosing a CNC machining provider
Machinery, technology, and facilities
To ensure that mechanical products meet both quality and aesthetic requirements, the machining company must be equipped with modern machinery and equipment, regularly updating and upgrading technology and production lines. This is one of the key factors to consider when selecting a CNC machining provider.
Worker and engineer qualifications
Besides machinery and equipment, human resources also play an important role in determining machining quality. Therefore, customers should prioritize providers with a highly skilled and experienced workforce of operators and engineers who are proficient in running various types of machines and technologies.
Quality certification and compliance
Customers should select machining providers with tightly controlled production processes that comply with the standards of the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System.
Machining time and pricing
A reputable and professional machining provider will commit to completing orders according to the production schedule stated in the contract while also ensuring competitive pricing to optimize customer costs.
After-sales policies
Finally, after-sales services such as maintenance and repair support are also important factors to consider when choosing a precision CNC machining provider.
THACO INDUSTRIES – A reputable and professional CNC machining provider
With over 20 years of experience in precision mechanical machining, THACO INDUSTRIES proudly stands as a trusted and professional CNC machining provider, offering a diverse range of precision mechanical products for multiple industries. The corporation owns modern, highly automated production lines imported from Germany, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, etc. It has the capability to machine components that require high precision and consistency in a short time, helping customers save costs.
THACO INDUSTRIES has invested in equipping and upgrading CNC machining lines, including: CNC milling machines capable of processing workpieces up to 4,000 mm in size and 30 tons in weight; CNC press brakes capable of handling products up to 12,000 mm in length; and a 2-heads EDM machine capable of machining two molds simultaneously. In particular, the entire CNC machining process is fully automated, integrated with advanced computer systems and multi-axis cutting tools, enhancing machining accuracy and flexibility for a wide variety of parts ranging from simple to complex.
With production processes certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and export standards, THACO INDUSTRIES is currently a strategic partner of major automotive brands such as Mazda, Kia, Toyota, Hyundai, and Isuzu, as well as global corporations including Doosan Vina, Makitech, TTI, and JMK. Beyond leading the domestic market, THACO INDUSTRIES continues to expand exports to key markets such as the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Europe, and ASEAN.
For consultation and support in finding a high-quality CNC machining provider, please contact 0348620063.
