How to choose the right CNC machine tools and cutting tools for your needs?
Table of Contents
- How to choose the right CNC machine tools and cutting tools for your needs?
- Basic information on CNC machining and machine tools
- Choosing and determining which CNC machine tools best suit your needs.
- CNC machine tool maintenance tips to help you maintain optimal performance
- Currently, various industries are placing new demands on specialized precision cutting tools.
- What constitutes a stable and efficient cutting tool used in CNC machine tools?
- Basic information on 11 common CNC machine tools
- CNC machine tool brand tiers: classified according to machining accuracy and level.
- Why choose Elimold’s CNC machining services?
The accelerated shift of global manufacturing to mainland China is an inevitable trend, and China will gradually develop into a world-class manufacturing base. Looking at future development trends, the global CNC machine tool and cutting tool market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 3% to 5% over the next five years. At this growth rate, China will remain the world’s leading market. In terms of CNC machine tool and cutting tool supply, the Chinese market remains the primary market for various CNC machine tool and cutting tool brands. Therefore, based on its experience and understanding of the actual market situation, Elimold provides a brief overview of relevant information about CNC machine tools. Furthermore, in today’s market, various industries are experiencing dynamic growth, and manufacturers of various products are continuously seeking better CNC machine tool centers, cutting tools, and CNC machining service providers to enhance their competitive advantage. Whether you need to purchase CNC machine tools or seek CNC machining service providers, understanding related CNC equipment, cutting tools, and related brands is essential. This article provides a brief introduction to CNC machine tools, cutting tools, and related product brands for your reference.
Basic information on CNC machining and machine tools
Computer numerical control, also known as CNC machining, is a manufacturing process that operates on a computer panel to manipulate machinery. It includes lathes, milling machines, and sprue machines. By incorporating pre-programmed designs, these machines facilitate the production of complex parts with higher precision. For industries with high precision requirements, CNC machining is considered the gold standard for production equipment. Furthermore, it helps in creating components that meet stringent design requirements. This high level of accuracy is a prerequisite for project success. CNC machining, with its accurate results and consistently higher levels of reliability, makes it ideal for producing complex equipment.
Choosing and determining which CNC machine tools best suit your needs.
When choosing a CNC machine tool that suits your needs, you need to keep the following key points in mind.
Clearly define your needs and requirements
The first step is to determine your specific needs and requirements. This includes factors such as how frequently you will use the CNC machine tool, whether it will be used by one person or multiple people, and the amount of available storage space.
Types of CNC machine tools
Once you have all this information, you can begin researching the various types of CNC machine tools that suit your needs. During this research, consider factors such as budget and manufacturing quality, as these important factors help ensure you choose a fully functional, high-quality machine tool.
Consult professionals
Another important step is to consult with someone familiar with CNC machine tools, who can offer helpful advice based on their experience. Ask them which types of machine tools they recommend and why, and ask if they have any tips to make the purchasing process smoother.
Compare different options
When searching for a CNC machine tool to suit your needs, don’t forget to compare different options in terms of price and manufacturing quality. Doing so will help ensure you find a machine that is not only of high quality but also within your budget. Furthermore, it’s important to note that no single machine is perfect for all applications; therefore, it’s generally best to compare several options to determine which one best suits your requirements.
Choose the best machine wisely
Ultimately, the most important thing is to do thorough research and take the time to select a CNC machine tool that meets all your requirements. With proper planning and preparation, you can be confident in your purchase and enjoy years of high-quality use with your new machine.
CNC machine tool maintenance tips to help you maintain optimal performance
If you want your CNC machine tools to always be running at their best, here are some key maintenance points. Here are 5 tips for properly maintaining your CNC machine tools:
Keep clean
One of the most important measures to keep CNC machine tools running smoothly is to keep them clean. Dust and debris accumulate over time, causing parts to wear out prematurely or even break down. Regularly cleaning the machine helps extend its lifespan and ensures its continued efficient operation.
Lubrication of moving parts
Another important maintenance task is lubricating all moving parts on the machine. This helps reduce friction and wear and ensures that all parts operate smoothly. It is essential to use a lubricant suitable for your specific CNC machine tool, as using the wrong lubricant will do more harm than good.
Keep cutting tools in good condition
Cutting tools are critical components of CNC machine tools, so keeping them in optimal condition at all times is essential. This means regularly inspecting the tools for dullness and damage, and replacing worn or damaged tools as needed.
Operate with care
One of the most common causes of problems with CNC machine tools is operational error, so it is crucial to always operate the machine gently and carefully. This means taking the time to fully understand how the machine works before you start using it, and then being cautious when operating it.
Regular maintenance and repair services
Finally, regular maintenance and repair services are crucial to ensuring your CNC machine tools maintain optimal performance over the long term. This helps you address potential problems before they escalate into serious malfunctions and extends the overall lifespan of your machine. Keep these recommendations in mind, and your CNC machine tools will remain at their best for years to come!
Currently, various industries are placing new demands on specialized precision cutting tools.
Difficult-to-machine materials, complex workpiece shapes, and frequent small-batch production place high demands on the cutting tools used to machine specialized products and parts . High-quality parts play a vital role in the successful development and sales of products , helping product developers achieve optimal functionality . The cutting tools used to machine parts largely determine the quality of the final product .
Cutting tools have a wide range of uses in product manufacturing. They can be used to process relatively simple workpieces such as the outer shell of large equipment (such as computer X-ray computed tomography machines), while they are more challenging for high-end electronic products or for the production of cranial bone repair or robot parts .
What constitutes a stable and efficient cutting tool used in CNC machine tools?
Regardless of the type of product or part being machined, stable and efficient cutting tools are a prerequisite for successfully producing high-precision parts and complex products. Stable and efficient cutting tools typically differ from ordinary cutting tools in the following three ways:
The requirements for machine tools are relatively high.
Advanced precision machining equipment such as Swiss automatic lathes, multi-spindle machine tools, and rotary tables are completely different from the machining centers and lathes we usually see. They are very small in size and have a very compact structure. To meet these requirements, the tool structure also needs to be specially designed, requiring the tool size to be very small while ensuring the rigidity of the tool. For example, the ISCAR SWISSCUT series is specifically designed for cam-type machine tools, reducing the problem of interference caused by the narrow machining area. It allows for easy changing of inserts from both sides of the tool holder, and the high-precision inserts and robust tool holder design ensure high repeatability. MINCUT is ISCAR’s latest tooling development, which can be used for both turning and milling. The small size of the tool has high rigidity and can be used on multi-spindle machine tools or machining centers.
High processing efficiency required
For mass production of high-precision parts, the most crucial factor is machining efficiency, or cycle time, requiring the ability to change cutting tools in the shortest possible time. ISCAR’s MULTI-MASTER series of interchangeable cutting tools allows for changing different end mills in just seconds. This quick-change concept effectively ensures a stable machining cycle time. Furthermore, tool life must be as stable and long as possible. High-quality tools should be used whenever possible, with a harmonious combination of coating, cutting edge, chip breaker type, and tool structure. This ensures 24-hour machine operation and allows for high production efficiency to compete with other rivals in the market, thus gaining a competitive advantage.
It can achieve the required surface finish
From the perspective of the workpiece itself, it differs significantly from other mechanical parts. High-precision custom parts first require extremely high surface finish and precision, with no room for deviation. This necessitates that the cutting tools, from the design of the insert structure to the design of the insert coating, meet very high machining requirements. In addition, the repeatability of the insert positioning accuracy is also crucial; while ensuring efficiency, high quality requirements cannot be neglected.
Basic information on 11 common CNC machine tools
CNC machine tools are modern subtractive manufacturing equipment that automatically control toolpaths and movement to remove material. You can find different types of CNC machine tools in industrial plants and CNC machine shop rooms, each with a specific manufacturing purpose. However, they all machine blanks into final parts according to provided G and M codes. Below, we will introduce 11 different CNC machine tools in detail.
CNC milling machine
Milling machines are the most common type of CNC equipment. They use multi-point rotary cutting tools connected to a CNC control spindle. Therefore, the spindle can move across multiple axes (3, 5 or more) to remove material.
Milling machines mainly come in two types: vertical milling machines and horizontal milling machines. In horizontal milling machines, the milling cutter is parallel to the workpiece surface, while in vertical milling machines it is at a right angle. Other common types include manual milling machines, universal milling machines, and multi-purpose milling machines. Furthermore, CNC milling machines can perform operations such as cutting, face milling, reaming, drilling, chamfering, and tapping using appropriate cutting tools.
CNC lathes and lathes
Lathes, turning centers, and lathes all refer to similar types of CNC machine tools used to manufacture axisymmetric shapes such as cones, shafts, and cylinders. A fixed tool, mounted on a turret or (tool post), feeds material from a rotating workpiece and shapes it into the desired form.
Horizontal, vertical, slant bed, multi-axis, and Swiss-type are the main types of CNC lathes. Each type is best suited for certain specific machining requirements. For example, Swiss-type turning is ideal for small and micro features. CNC lathes can perform operations such as facing, turning, cutting, drilling, thread cutting, knurling, taper machining, chamfering, and boring.
CNC Adjustment Milling Composite Machine
Milling machines excel at machining flat surfaces and complex contours, while lathes are best suited for machining axisymmetric objects. However, CNC mill-turn centers, or turning-turn-milling centers, can combine the functions of both lathes and milling machines to produce both geometries. In mill-turn machining, both the workpiece and the cutting tool can rotate, but they rotate in opposite directions to remove material. Furthermore, both turning and milling tools are compatible with the machine tool.
CNC Router
CNC routers operate on the same principle as CNC milling machines. The difference lies in the fact that routers process softer materials and have limited Z-axis movement. They contain a rotary tool on the spindle that can move along different axes. Types of CNC routers include automatic tool changer (ATC), nested, and industrial models. Each type has different tooling and production capabilities. Routers can perform contouring, engraving, threading, grooving, 3D carving, beveling, facing, and many other operations.
CNC plasma cutting machine
Plasma is a high-temperature ionized gas stream (up to 40,000°F). CNC plasma cutting machines use a controlled plasma stream guided through a nozzle to thermally cut and shape conductive workpieces. CNC plasma cutting machines use a plasma torch to propel a plasma jet into the workpiece, controlled by a CNC system. As the gas stream is compressed within the plasma torch, connected electrodes generate sparks, ionizing the gas before it leaves the nozzle.
CNC laser cutting machine
CNC laser cutting machines also use high heat to cut and shape materials, but they offer higher precision than plasma cutters. The CNC-controlled laser head determines the path of the focused laser beam, thus creating the desired cuts, shapes, engravings, or patterns. Depending on the laser medium (or laser source), laser cutting machines can be categorized into different types: CO₂, fiber, and neodymium (Nd:YAG). CO₂ lasers are suitable for simple cutting and consume less powder, while fiber and Nd:YAG lasers require greater power and are capable of complex cuts.
CNC Electrical Discharge Machining Machine
Electrical discharge machining (EDM) uses electric sparks to etch material along a predetermined path. When high voltage is passed through a dielectric, sparks are generated by wires or electrodes within the workpiece. These sparks (also called electric arcs) melt and vaporize the material through localized heating, reaching temperatures up to 12,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Common types of EDM CNC machines include wire cutting, EDM forming, and drilling EDM. Therefore, EDM can create microcavities, small holes, deep grooves, internal channels, and a wide variety of other features.
CNC waterjet cutting machine
CNC waterjet cutting machines use high-pressure water jets to cut hard and thick materials. The water jets typically contain micro-abrasive beads, such as alumina, silicon carbide, or even diamond. This shear-free and heat-free cutting process is suitable for heat-sensitive workpieces, such as thermoplastics, rubber, and magnesium alloys. Pure waterjet cutting is used for soft materials, while abrasive waterjet cutting is used for hard materials.
CNC grinding machine
CNC grinders or polishing machines are not CNC machines that directly cut or shape workpieces; rather, they are used to achieve dimensional accuracy and a smooth surface finish. A CNC grinder consists of a rotating wheel with an abrasive layer on top. When a part is fed into this wheel, the abrasive removes minute amounts of material. Therefore, using finer abrasives can produce a mirror-like finish. The shape of the grinding wheel depends on the geometry of the part being ground, whether it is internal or external grinding. Common abrasives used on grinding wheels include quartz, sand, garnet, and corundum.
CNC drilling machine
Drilling machines, or CNC drilling machines, are used to drill cylindrical holes (including through holes and blind holes) using appropriately sized drill bits. Different types of CNC machines are specifically designed for drilling, reaming, boring, and internal threading tasks. The CNC-controlled spindle holds the drill bit in place and rotates downwards, its helical groove structure cutting material upwards. Twist drills, masonry drills, riveting drills, ring drills, step drills, and peck drills are common drill bit types. Furthermore, multi-spindle drills, radial arm drills, micro drills, and screw drills are major variations of drilling machines.
Multi-axis machine
Typical CNC machine tools have 2 or 3 axes of motion (spindle or tool motion). Any machine tool with more than 3 axes is called a multi-axis machine tool. Generally, 4-axis and 5-axis CNC machine tools are popular in manufacturing. However, they also come in 5, 3+2, 6, 7, 9, and 12-axis configurations. These precision machines offer greater motion flexibility and can handle greater part complexity. They can produce complex features such as deep grooves, irregular contours, outlines, and undercuts.
CNC machine tool brand tiers: classified according to machining accuracy and level.
While the above rankings are based on company market value and brand awareness and thus possess a certain degree of authority, they may not accurately reflect the machining precision and level of CNC machine tools. Based on years of experience using CNC machine tools, Elimold has compiled a top four tier list according to machining precision and capability. Each tier includes the following brands:
Level 1
This tier of brands represents the ultra-high-end of the machining center industry, including Swiss brands such as Mikron, Baum, Starrag, Liechti, Willemin Macodel, Hermle, Oerlikon, and GROB. These brands are virtually flawless in terms of appearance, design, innovation, machining capabilities, and precision. They possess extremely high machining accuracy but very low production volumes. Due to their high prices and operating costs, CNC machining plants only choose them as a last resort. These top brands are highly regarded, but their high procurement and operating costs limit their market application. While the price is high, profit margins are not necessarily high; while the quality is excellent, commercial success is not guaranteed.
Level 2
Brands in this tier include renowned names such as DMG, Spinner, and Starrag from Germany; Mori Seiki, Okuma, Mazak, Makino, and Toyota from Japan; MAG and Hardinge from the United States; Fidia from Italy; and Danobat from Spain. These brands form the backbone of world-class machinery manufacturing companies and consistently rank among the top sellers globally. They typically produce in small to medium batches with controlled quality, manufacturing high-profit products at more affordable prices compared to top-tier brands.
These second-tier brands are widely promoted in CNC factories, holding a significant market share and specializing in solving complex machining problems. Their reputation often surpasses that of first-tier brands. For large-scale machining enterprises, it’s difficult to claim their products are top-notch without a few second-tier brands.
Level 3
Third-tier brands include Sino-Japanese joint ventures like Daishowa and Mazak, American brands like Hardinger and Haas, South Korean brands like Doosan, Hyundai, and Samsung, and Taiwanese brands like YCM, Eastar, Leadwell, Quick-Tech, and Topper. These are major machine tool brands used by many Asian manufacturers, offering moderate prices. In reality, although many companies producing top-tier products use first- and second-tier brand machine tools, they primarily use third-tier machine tools for mass production due to higher procurement costs. These machine tools are durable and reliable, crucial for ensuring product quality and production efficiency.
Level 4
Tier 4 brands include several local brands from different countries, which will not be listed here. Of course, the quality of these brands varies, but they typically offer more affordable options and hold a share of the market. They continuously strive to improve the processing precision and level of their equipment.
Why choose Elimold’s CNC machining services?
Complex CNC machined parts require advanced CNC equipment or the use of multiple machines. Therefore, understanding the machine’s capabilities and operation is crucial for achieving accurate results. However, you can consider CNC machining services that leverage the machinery and expertise of secondary manufacturers. This allows you to transform your designs into actual functional parts and products without owning the machines.
Elimold is a leading manufacturing company located in China, with a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and over 20 CNC machines covering more than 200 categories. We have been supplying CNC machine components to numerous industries worldwide, including automotive, aerospace, medical, hardware, electronics, and others. Furthermore, our engineers and operators have over two decades of experience in machining projects. If you are interested, you can send your designs to our team and request a quote. All uploads and information are kept highly confidential.