CNC milling machine has replaced drilling machine, lathe and traditional milling machine. Compared with other equipment, an obvious advantage is that it can move its cutting head in multiple directions. This allows the machine to cut or carve complex shapes. The ability to operate on multiple axes also allows the machine to perform multiple tasks continuously. In addition, the versatility of a CNC milling machine increases with the number of axes it operates. CNC milling machine is used for different states of various materials, such as metal, wood or plastic. This article will mainly introduce the types of CNC milling machines.
Another advantage of CNC milling machine is its computer control, which helps to eliminate human errors. A program is formed before operation to provide accurate instructions for the machine. The program is created by a series of commands called G code. G code is written in alphanumeric format, representing specific functions of CNC milling machine. Once the material is in place and the software is ready, the CNC milling machine will quickly and error free perform all milling.
According to the type of products created and the type of materials used, there are different CNC milling machines that are more suitable for different applications. The number of shafts used, the amount of control required by the machine, and the size of the products manufactured all affect the type of machine used.
Types of CNC Milling Machines
One of the important reasons that CNC milling machines are paid attention to in the manufacturing era is that they can move on different axes. This feature allows workshops to achieve more complex designs with faster processing speeds and fewer operations. CNC milling machines are mainly divided into three types: vertical CNC milling machines, horizontal CNC milling machines and multi axis CNC milling machines.
1. Vertical CNC milling machine: Vertical CNC milling machine is cost-effective and widely used. The vertical CNC milling machine makes the tool run up and down. In this case, the device moves on three axes – X, Y, and Z. Usually, it is the workbench that moves, not necessarily the head. This type of CNC milling machine is usually easier to program, while still providing multiple functions.
2. Horizontal CNC milling machine: The milling head of horizontal CNC milling machine is not facing up or down, but placed horizontally. As with vertical CNC milling machines, horizontal CNC milling machines move on at least three spindles. However, horizontal CNC milling machines can also be rotated for more complex designs. Because horizontal CNC milling machines can move on up to five axes, they are more expensive. However, they are more suitable for workshops that produce a large number of identical parts. Programming these machines requires more work because they require more complex software.
Generally, horizontal CNC milling machines are used to cut grooves and grooves on products. However, professional tools can also be used to cut bevels and radii, but these are often more expensive. Horizontal CNC milling machine is very suitable for cutting gear workpiece.
3. Multi-axis CNC milling machine: Multi-axis CNC milling machine means that the CNC milling machine can run on more than four axes, which provides greater flexibility and complexity. Adding more shafts will also increase the cost of the equipment, but it can produce better parts. One of the main benefits of adding additional shafts is that it allows the milling head to do more in the same space. Multi axis CNC milling machines can handle everything by themselves, without requiring workers to move and rearrange them.
3-axis CNC milling machine is a simple and efficient machine, and the workpiece is fixed in one position. Four axis CNC milling machines need high-end software, but they have greater flexibility and production capacity. Five axis CNC milling machine can move cutting tools or parts along five axes at the same time, providing the manufacturing capability to produce various more complex and accurate parts.