12 Types of CNC Machines Explained: Which One is the Best? 

CNC machines are modern subtractive manufacturing equipment, which automatically control the tool path and movement for material removal. You can find different types of CNC machines in industrial factories and the CNC Machine Shop, each with specific manufacturing purposes. However, all of them are used to craft the blank work material into the end part based on the provided G and M codes.

Understanding the capabilities, pros, cons, and possible applications of CNC machines helps to make better decisions about which machine or which combinations can fulfill your manufacturing needs.

Continue reading, we will elaborate on 12 distinct CNC machines in detail with a short guide on selecting the best machine for your project at the end.

What’s a CNC Machine?

A CNC machine is a computerized manufacturing system or equipment that converts workpieces into a designed shape through an automatic material removal process. Instead of the operator handling the spindle and work holding movement, G and M codes direct the spindle to move different axes in a pre-determined path. In addition to tool motion, positioning, alignment, speed, feed, and other variables are also automatic.

The CNC integration allows for faster and more accurate production, accommodation of diverse tools, and smooth as-machined surface finish.

Next, we will briefly discuss the 12 different CNC machine types.

1. CNC Milling Machines

Milling machines are the most common CNC equipment. They use a multi-point rotating cutting tool attached to a CNC-controlled spindle. Consequently, the spindle can move across multiple axes (3, 5, or more) to remove the material.

The two main types of mills are vertical and horizontal; Horizontal milling involves a cutter parallel to the workpiece surface, which is right-angled in the vertical machine. Other common types are hand, universal, and omniversal milling machines.

Moreover, CNC mills can handle cutting, face milling, reaming, drilling, chamfers, tapping, and other operations with corresponding tools.

Advantages

• It supports a large option of cutting tools, including end mills, face cutters, fly cutters, thread taps, and reamers.
• Complex shapes and customization higher axes machines.
• Large and heavy-sized parts can be machined.

Disadvantages

• The spindle flexibility and tool movement distance limit the size of the parts.
• Lead screws and nuts might cause the backlash-error during the CNC milling process. 

Applications

• Conversion of flat workpieces into complex shapes, profiles, and contours.
• Rapid prototyping for automotive, aerospace, medical, and industries.
• Full-scale production of automotive and custom machinery parts.

 Brands & Costs

Yamazaki Mazak Corporation (Japan), Shandong Tsinfa (China), and Datron Dynamics (US) are the main brands in the milling machine market. A standard CNC mill cost somewhere around $ 30,000 to $80,000.

2. CNC Lathes and Turning Machines

Lathe, turning machine, and turning center all refer to similar types of CNC machines, they are used to create axially symmetrical shapes, such as cones, shafts, and cylinders. A stationary tool attached to a turret station or (tool post) feeds the material from the rotating work bar and creates desired shapes.

Horizontal, vertical, slant bed, multi-axis, and Swiss are the main types of CNC lathes. Each of them is best for some specific machining requirements. E.g. Swiss turning is ideal for small and micro-sized features.

A CNC lathe machine performs operations like facing, turning, parting, drilling, thread cutting, knurling, tapering, chamfering, and boring.

Advantages

• High accuracy and repeatability for symmetrical shapes.
• Lathe or CNC turners have better cutting speed and they can machine hard materials also.
• They are more compact and small in size than the milling machine.

Disadvantages

• The capability of lathes is limited to cylindrical items
• The handling and operation are more complex and require expert professionals.
• Higher initial machine setup and tooling cost

Applications

• Automotive suspension parts, frames, gears, and engine components.
• Custom hollow cylindrical parts with internal features
• Machinery and tooling components

 Brands & Costs

Haas Automation (USA), DMG Mori (Germany), and SMTCS (China) are the popular lathe and CNC turning machine brands. The cost of the machine varies on the axis capability, bed size, and model. However, the cost of a typical 3-axis lathe ranges from $38000 to $ 60,000.

3. CNC Tuning Milling Compound Machines

As mentioned before, the milling machine excels in the flat and complex contours and lathes are best for the axial symmetric items. However, a CNC turning milling compound machine or turn-mill center can produce both kinds of geometries by combining the capability of a lathe and mill.

In the turn-milling CNC operations, both the work and cutting tool can be rotated. They rotate in opposite directions for material removal. Meanwhile, turning and milling both kinds of tools are compatible with compound machines.

Advantages

• The combined capability reduces machine downtime and boosts production speed.
• Enhanced accuracy compared to other standard CNC machines, down to 0.001”.
• Better surface finish with minimal irregularities

Disadvantages

• It has lower spindle movement freedom than standard milling machines.
• Large-sized machining tools are hard to accommodate in turning-milling centers.

Applications

• Highly complex and precision-sensitive parts like aircraft impellers and medical implants.
• Automotive gears, engine valves, bearings, gears, etc.

Brands & Costs

The cost of this complex equipment is higher than other types of CNC machines, more than $100,000 for an industry-sized machine. However, small ones are available for  $40,000 or around that. Additionally, DMG Mori (Germany) and Yamazaki Mazak (Japan) are two leading CNC compound machine manufacturer brands.

4. CNC Router

A CNC router machine works on the same working principle as the CNC mill. The difference is that router machines softer material and have limited Z- axis movements. It contains a rotating tool on a spindle that can move along different axes.

The types of CNC routers are; Automatic Tool Changer (ATC), nested, and industrial. Each of them has different tooling and production capabilities. A router can perform profiling, engraving, threading, slotting, 3D craving, ramping, facing, and many other operations.

Advantages

• Increased machining speed and minimal waste for soft workpieces, plastics, aluminum, rubbers, wood, etc.
• The use of ATC significantly reduces downtime and increases productivity.
• The router is a cost-effective machine for complex and accurate part manufacturing.

Disadvantages

• The less spindle movement freedom limits the machining of deep holes and cuts.
• It is changing to process hard materials and the machine is also noisy.

Applications

• CNC counting is ideal for parts with flat surfaces
• Wood, metal, and plastic furniture and decorative items.
• 3D brand signage, logos, and advertisement panels

Brands & Costs

Camster, APSX, HAAS automation, and Bantam tools, are the major brands that produce and sell CNC routers. The price varies on machine size, bed size, axis capability, and other various factors. A typical range is $10,000+ for smalls and $80,000+ for standard industry-size routers.

5. CNC Plasma Cutters

Plasma is a stream of high-temperature ionized gases ( up to 40,000° F). CNC plasma cutter utilizes a controlled stream of plasma guided through the nozzle for thermal cutting and shaping of conductive workpieces.

CNC plasma cutting machines use a plasma torch to strike the plasma jet into the workpiece, controlled by the CNC system. When a stream of gas is compressed in a plasma torch, the connected electrodes create a spark and ionize the gases before leaving the nozzle.

Advantages

• No mechanical stress near the cutting area as plasma cutting does not involve direct interaction between tool and workpiece.
• Faster cutting speed, cleaner & precise cuts
• It can cut irregular and curved shapes that are impossible with shear-cutting.

Disadvantages

• These types of CNC machines can only cut conductive workpieces.
• The high temperature of the plasma jet can cause hardening near the machining area.
• It is not suitable for thin sheets and too-thick workpieces, the typical range is 1 to 50 mm. 

Applications

• Sheet metal enclosures, ducts, and brackets cutting
• Structural supports, beams, and panels
• Automotive body panels, frames, and exhaust parts.

Brands and Costs

The popular plasma cutter machine brands are ESAB, Cruxweld, and Lincoln. Subsequently, a small-size CNC plasma cutter is available at approximately $12,000, as the machine size CNC manufacturing capability increases the cost can go beyond $50,000.

6. CNC Laser Cutting Machines

CNC laser cutters also use intense heat to cut and shape the material, but they offer higher precision than plasma cutters. A CNC-controlled laser head dictates the path of the focused laser beam, creating desired cuts, shapes, engraves, or patterns.

Different types of laser cutting machines based on the lasing medium (or laser source); CO₂. fiber, neodymium (Nd: YAG).  CO₂. lasers are suitable for simple cuts and consume less powder, whereas fiber and Nd: YAG require more power and are capable of intricate cutting.

Advantages

• Faster speed than the plasma and offers better accuracy
• Detailed cutting and engraving with a smooth finish
• Laser cutters are not limited to metal and alloys, they can cut other CNC Machining Materials like plastics and composites.

Disadvantages

• It is challenging to machine highly reflective materials like brass and copper.
• Laser is not suitable for thicker sheets and workpieces
• Polymers and plastics can produce hazardous emissions during the process.

Applications

• Cutting, etching, engraving, and marking of logos, signs, symbols, texts, arts, etc.
• Prototyping of automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical items.
• Arts and sculptures
• Furniture, cabinets, and pipe manufacturing

 Brands & Costs

The popular brands in laser cutting equipment manufacturing are Prima Industries, Ambada, Trumpf, and Coherent. The cost of a simple laser ranges from $10,000 to $18, 000, whereas industry-sized machines cost from $ 60,000 to $200,000 or more.

7. CNC Electrical Discharge Machines

Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM) utilize electrical sparks that erode the material in a pre-determined path. A wire or electrode inside the dielectric with the workpiece generates the spark as high voltage passes through it. The spark (also called arc) melts and vaporizes the materials through localized heating, temperature can go up to 12,000 °F.

The common EDM CNC machine types are wire EDM, die sinker EDM, and hole drilling EDM. Consequently, EDM machining creates micro-cavities, small holes, deep grooves, internal channels, and other various features.

Advantages

• The EDM allows for the manufacturing of complex parts with intricate features, which provides higher design flexibility.
•  No mechanical stress during machining
• Material toughness and hardness do not affect the result.

Disadvantages

• Only electrical-conductive materials are compatible with the EDM machining process.
• Slow cutting speed compared to plasma & laser cutters.
• High energy consumption

Applications

• Medical and dental implants, pacemakers, and neurostimulators.
• Injection molds, casting die, extrusion die, and other types of tooling
• Electrical connectors, sensors, etc.

Brands and Costs

Makino, JK Machines, FANUC, and Accutex are some popular brands that manufacture EDM machines. Meanwhile, their cost ranges from $90,000 to $150,000. However, small-sized machines are also available below $50,000.

8. CNC Waterjet Cutting Machine

A CNC waterjet machine uses a high-pressure waterjet to cut through hard and thick materials. The water jet is often mixed with micro-abrasive beads, such as aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and even diamond.

This non-shear and non-thermal cutting process is suitable for heat-sensitive works. For example, thermoplastics, rubbers, magnesium alloys, etc. Pure waterjet is used for soft materials, and abrasive waterjet is for hard materials.

Advantages

• Waterjet can work with thicker sheets, up to 12 inches based on material type.
• It can work with diverse materials, including composites, thermosets, rubbers, ceramics, and foams.
• No heat-affected zones and low cost

Disadvantages

• Slower machine’s speed and productivity than laser and plasma cutters.
• It has a risk of part failure due to high-pressure
• It has relatively less accuracy.

Applications

• Aerospace parts like turbine blades and structural composite parts
• Seals, gaskets, and gear cutting
• Structural and architectural items
• Musical instruments, nameplates, stone and ceramic arts, etc.

Brands and Costs

The popular CNC waterjet machine brands are KMT Waterjet, OMAX, Jet Edge, and WARD Jet. Meanwhile, the costs of the machine range from $50,000 to $1,80,000 or more 

9. CNC Grinding Machines

CNC grinding machines or grinders are not the direct type of CNC machine that cuts or shapes the work, instead, it is used to make dimensions accurate and achieve smooth surface finish.  A CNC grinder involves a rotating wheel with an abrasive layer on the top. When parts are fed into this grinding wheel, the abrasives remove the minor materials. Consequently, using finer abrasives can produce a mirror-like finish.

The shape of the grinding wheel depends on the geometry of the parts that need to be grind, whether they require internal or external grinding. Additionally, the typical abrasive materials used on wheels are quartz, sand, garnet, and corundum.

Advantages

• Besides finishing and polishing, the grinder also removes the micro-cracks and surface irregularities.
• Grinders can achieve specified tolerances through minor material removal.
• Rounding of sharp corners and edges

Disadvantages

• Slow material removal makes it unfit for heavy machining tasks.
• It produces debris, dust, and noise, requiring frequent cleaning.

Applications

• Surface finishing of automotive gears, brake system components, bearings, crankshafts, etc.
• Medical equipment parts, surgical instruments, and implants.
• Manufacturing tools, couplings, dies, and molds.

Brands and Cost

If you are looking for CNC grinding machines, Yamazaki Mazak, Haas Automation, and DMG Mori are some of the top manufacturers. The cost starts from $6,000 and goes beyond $50,000 as automation and size capability increases.

10. CNC Drilling Machines

Drilling machines or CNC drills are used to make cylindrical holes, both through and blind holes, using suitable sizes of drill bits. Among the different types of CNC machines,  they specialize in drilling, reaming, boring, and internal threading tasks.

The CNC-controlled spindle secures the drill bit and rotates downward, its spiral-flutes structure Chips out the material upward. Additionally, twist, masonry, rivet, annular, step, and peck are the common types of drill bits. 

Furthermore, multiple spindle, radial arm, micro-drill, and screw machine drills are major variations of drilling machines.

Advantages

• It creates accurate holes in various materials metals, plastic, composites, etc.
• The automation of the drilling process allows for tight tolerances, as low as 0.001 mm.
• The drilling machine can accommodate diverse shapes and sizes of drill bits.

Disadvantages

• The machine’s complexity and frequent maintenance
• Hole’s diameter and depth limitation

Applications

• Automotive vehicles, shipbuilding, and aircraft components
• Furniture, machinery, and tooling
• Assembly holes for rivets, fasteners, etc.
• Thread tapping holes for internal threads

Brands and Cost

Okuma, Haas, Amada, and DMG Mori are the popular brands of CNC grinders. A basic CNC drill approximately cost $15,000. However, the advanced multi-axis drill machine with large diameter and depth capability costs beyond $50,000.

11. Multi-Axis Machines

Typical CNC machines have 2 or 3-axis movement (spindle or tool movement). Meanwhile, any machine beyond the 3-axis is known as the multi-axis machine. Typically, 4 and 5-axis CNC machines are popular in the manufacturing industry. However, they also come with 5, 3+2, 6, 7, 9, and 12 axes configurations.

These sophisticated machines allow for greater movement flexibility, and so does the complexity of the part. They can produce intricate features like deep channels, irregular contours, profiles, and undercuts.

Advantages

• A single setup of the multi-axis machine allowed the machining of CNC parts with complex geometrical features.
• Rapid production speed and accuracy
• Simple tooling and fixtures

Disadvantages

• High installation costs and skilled operators are required to operate the machine.
• The complex code for the computerized numerical control system increases the risk of setup and positioning errors.

Applications

• Accurate and custom parts for aircraft, medical devices, and defense equipment.
• Automotive engine cases, interior components, carburetor housing, cylinder heads, etc.
• Jewelry, furniture, and decorative parts & products

Brands and Costs

Yamazaki Mazak, Haas, EMAG, and Makino are some popular brands for multi-axis machines. The cost of these machines typically ranges from $1,20,000 to $7,00,000.

12. CNC 3D Printer

The 3D printer is not a conventional CNC machine type, it is an additive manufacturing equipment, which means the machine builds the design by adding subsequent material layers. A 3D printer can produce complex geometrical shapes through a complete automation process. 

Subsequently, selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), Stereolithography (SLA), and Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF) are the common types of 3D printers. Each of them has different building mechanisms and material compatibility.

Advantages

• Complex geometrical shapes and design freedom
• Simple, and minimal tooling requirements
• Minimal material waste

Disadvantages

• 3D printing is not suitable for all types of materials, limited to plastics and a few metals.
• The 3D-printed parts require post-processing and are also not suitable for mass production.

Applications

• Rapid prototyping of various designs for structure and performance testing.
• Drone, PC, and other electronics housing
• Custom medical implants and surgical items
• Aircraft and spacecraft parts

Brands and Costs

Nowadays 3D printers are more common and available in different sizes and variations. A simple 3D printer costs approximately $ 5,000, whereas prices of industrial printers start from $ 20,000 and go beyond $120,000. Additionally, the popular 3D printer brands are FlasForge, 3D Systems, Markforged, and Raise 3D.

Common Components of CNC Machine

Any CNC machine includes several individual components working together to execute the machining processes; mechanical hardware, electrical circuits, sensors, computer software, etc.

Here are the most common components;

Bed

A bed is a rigid and stable plane typically made with cast iron alloys. It provides a base for material holding and contains different jigs, fixtures, and slots.

Input Device

It is the CNC machine component that takes the input of the CNC program ( lines of G & M-code instructions). Typically, it is done using a wireless system, USB port, or wire transfer.

Machine Control Unit

The machine control unit is the center of the whole CNC system that is made with electronic components and computer software. It interprets the uploaded program and controls the machining using servomotor relays and feedback sensors. Moreover, it controls starting, speed, feed, etc.

Display Unit

It is an LCD screen that shows all the real-time machining data for monitoring purposes. The operator can verify whether the weather machine working correctly or not.

Control Panel

It is a combination of machine control unit, display, unit, interface, and input keywords. Moreover, the control panel serves as a foundational unit in the CNC system.

Machine Tools

Machine tools refer to a set of mechanical hardware directly involved in the machining process, including spindles, drives & motors, and table slides.

Drive System

The drive system is responsible for facilitating the positioning and handling of machine tools to the operator through axis control. Servomotors, electronic circuits, relays, screws, steppers, and other different devices collectively form this system.

Feedback System

A feedback system refers to a closed loop system for machining control that involves several sensors, transducers, and relays. They record and provide real-time feedback about tool movement, position, and other information to the machine control unit.

Chuck

Chuck is predominantly used in turning centers and lathe machines. It provides a holding grip for workpieces.

Headstock

Headstock holds and centers the work for accurate positioning and alignment, it encloses the machine spindle and powdered it.

Tailstock

Another support mechanism for work that is perfectly lined with a headstock on the opposite end.

Tailstock Quill

It is a long cylindrical part with a conical shape at the end that is installed in the tailstock, in the same line with the chuck axis and spindle.

Footswitch or pedal

It opens the chuck jaws and facilitates the disassembly of work holding. The operator presses the switch or pedal with the foot whenever the chuck needs to start, stop, or disassemble.

Key Points for Selecting the Best CNC Machine Type

The following are some critical considerations for CNC machine selection that can fulfill your manufacturing needs;

Identify Your Material Type

First, consider what kind of work material are you going to the machine. The physical and mechanical properties of work heavily influence the choice. Some machines are only suitable for metallic workpieces, whereas some can work with diverse material types.

Determine the Part Complexity

Does your part’s design have complex and multiple geometrical features? If yes, a simple machine cannot craft them. You might require 4, 5, 6, or higher axes CNC machines. Additionally, the intricate 3D contours require a compound turn-mill or a combination of multiple types of CNC machines.

Consider Production Volume

Are you using CNC machines for rapid prototyping, small batches, or full-scale runs? Define your production volume clearly, larger volumes require machines with rapid production cycles and repeatability.  In mass production, manufacturers often use ATC and streamlined feeding integrations.

Precision Requirements

Precision requirements are associated with the tight tolerances. If your parts require accurate and precise parts, check the capabilities of CNC machines to see whether they fall under your required range or not. The rigidity and stability of the machine are also essential to counter the vibration and achieve tight tolerances. For instance, Turn-Mill centers are rigid and offer a high level of precision.

Part Size and Dimension

Imagine you choose a highly accurate and compatible machine but its machining area ( bed size ) is smaller than your part’s size. Therefore, identifying the dimensions & part size in drawing, and then considering the bed size, tool movement flexibility, and tool access.

Budget

After short-listing the different machine models that fit all the requirements discussed above, consider their prices. Try to balance the machine’s capability with the best price value, but do not compromise the essential requirements. Additionally, it is also wise to consider the energy, operation, and handling prices that will cost later.

Why Not Consider CNC Machining Services?

Complex CNC machining parts require advanced CNC equipment or the use of multiple machines. Consequently, the knowledge of machine capabilities and operations is also essential for accurate results. However, you can consider the CNC machining services from secondary manufacturers to leverage their machinery and expertise. It allows you to convert your design into actual functional parts and products without owning the machines.

RapidDirect is a leading manufacturing company based in China with an advanced manufacturing factory with 200+ CNC machines in 20+ categories. We have been working with automotive, aerospace, medical, hardware, electronics, and other several industries worldwide to supply CNC machine components. Additionally, our engineers and operators have over two decades of experience in machining projects. 

If you are interested, upload your design here and request a quote. All uploads and information are highly confidential!

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