What is a CNC machine tool?
In the late 1940s, the United States started exploring the potential of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine tools. A major milestone was reached in 1952 when the MIT Servo Laboratory successfully developed the first CNC milling machine, which was put into practical use in 1957. This innovation marked a turning point in manufacturing technology and heralded the dawn of the CNC machining era. As the foundation of modern manufacturing, CNC technology has had a profound and lasting impact on the industry. Countries around the world with advanced industrial systems have since prioritized research and development in this field.
China began its own journey in CNC machine tool development in 1958, producing early models equipped with sub-pipe numerical control systems. By 1965, it had started mass-producing three-axis CNC milling machines using transistor-based numerical control systems. Over the decades, these machines evolved to incorporate computer control, becoming widely adopted across various industries, especially in mold manufacturing, where their precision and efficiency are highly valued.
To meet the diverse needs of metal cutting and special machining processes—such as turning, milling, grinding, drilling, planing, electrical discharge machining (EDM), and laser cutting—numerous types of CNC machine tools have been developed. These can generally be categorized into 16 main types:
1. CNC Lathe (Turning Center with Milling Function)
2. CNC Milling Machine (including Milling Center)
3. CNC Boring Machine
4. Milling-Based Processing Center
5. CNC Grinding Machine (including Grinding Center)
6. CNC Drilling Machine (including Drilling Center)
7. CNC Broaching Machine
8. CNC Planer
9. CNC Cutting Machine Tools
10. CNC Gear Processing Machine Tools
11. CNC Laser Processing Machine Tools
12. CNC WEDM (Wire Electrical Discharge Machining)
13. CNC EDM Machine (Electric Processing Center)
14. CNC Plate Village Molding Machine Tool
15. CNC Tube Forming Machine
16. Other CNC Machine Tools
In the die manufacturing industry, common CNC machines include CNC milling machines, CNC EDM machines, CNC WEDM machines, CNC grinding machines, and CNC lathes. These tools are essential for achieving high precision and complex shapes.
A typical CNC machine consists of several key components: the control system, servo system, detection system, mechanical transmission system, and various auxiliary systems. The control system manages data input, interprets instructions, and controls the machine's operations. The servo system translates control signals into precise movements of the machine’s components. The detection system monitors the position and speed of moving parts, providing feedback to ensure accuracy. The mechanical transmission system transfers motion from the servo drive to the machine tool. Auxiliary systems include features like fixed cycles, automatic tool changers, and backlash compensation, enhancing overall performance and efficiency.
Among all CNC processes, CNC milling is often considered the most complex, with many challenges to overcome. While other CNC operations such as wire cutting, EDM, turning, and grinding also have unique programming requirements, this book will focus primarily on NC milling, as it is fundamental to understanding CNC machining programs. The servo system plays a crucial role by converting pulse signals from the numerical control device into actual movement of the machine's components, ensuring accurate and controlled operation.
Pipe Parts,Pump Part,Machinery Parts,Pump Spare Parts
Zhejiang Noken Mechanical Technology Co., LTD , https://www.nkcasting.com