Understanding CNC terminology is crucial for anyone working with or learning about CNC machining. This section covers essential terms and concepts, from basic components to advanced operations, making navigating the technical language of CNC technology easier. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced machinist, this guide will help clarify key terms, enhancing your knowledge and proficiency in CNC machining processes. Dive in to better understand the language that drives precision engineering and manufacturing.
G-Code ⚙️
G-Code is the programming language that controls CNC machines, detailing precise movements, speeds, and tool actions needed for machining tasks.
Hardness ⚙️
Hardness measures a material’s resistance to deformation, impacting its durability and wear resistance in machining and material selection.
Horizontal Machining Centre ⚙️
A horizontal machining centre (HMC) is a CNC machine with a horizontally oriented spindle, designed for efficient multi-sided machining, ideal for complex parts.
Horizontal Turning Centre ⚙️
A horizontal turning centre is a CNC machine designed for precision turning operations, efficiently shaping cylindrical components with high accuracy and versatility.
Inserts ⚙️
Inserts are replaceable cutting tools in CNC machining, designed for efficient material removal and precise shaping, offering durability, versatility, and cost savings.
Jig ⚙️
A jig is a custom-made tool in CNC machining that holds and guides workpieces, ensuring accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency during production processes.
Live Tooling ⚙️
Live tooling in CNC lathes allows for powered rotary tools, enabling operations like milling, drilling, and tapping, enhancing versatility and precision in a single setup.
Lathe ⚙️
A lathe is a machine tool used primarily for shaping and cutting materials, such as metal, wood, or plastic, by rotating the workpiece around a stationary cutting tool.
Laser Cutter ⚙️
A laser cutter is a machine that uses a focused laser beam to cut or engrave a wide range of materials, such as wood, plastic, acrylic, textiles, and certain metals.
Milling Spindle ⚙️
A milling spindle is the core component of a milling machine, responsible for rotating the cutting tool at precise speeds, ensuring stability and accuracy during machining operations.
Mach3 ⚙️
Mach3 is a widely used CNC control software that transforms a PC into a CNC machine controller, offering precise motion control for various CNC applications.
Machining Centre ⚙️
A machining centre is a highly automated CNC machine tool capable of performing multiple operations like milling, drilling, and tapping in a single setup for efficient, precise manufacturing.
Milling ⚙️
Milling is a versatile machining process using rotary cutters to shape materials into precise forms and contours, widely applied in industries like aerospace and automotive.
Milling Machine ⚙️
A milling machine is a machine tool used to remove material from a workpiece to create custom parts with various shapes and profiles.
Mini CNC Machine ⚙️
A mini CNC machine, also referred to as a desktop CNC machine or small CNC machine, is a compact and portable version of a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine.
Machine Coolant ⚙️
Machine coolant, also known as cutting fluid or cutting oil, is a liquid used during machining processes to reduce heat, friction, and tool wear, and to improve the overall quality of the machined surface.
Machine ⚙️
A machine is a device or apparatus that uses mechanical, electrical, or other forms of energy to perform a specific task or function, often with the purpose of simplifying human effort or increasing efficiency.
Micron Tolerance ⚙️
Micron tolerance is a manufacturing precision standard that ensures dimensional accuracy within a micrometre, critical for industries like aerospace, medical, and electronics.
Micromachining ⚙️
Micromachining is a specialized process for creating extremely small, precise features, crucial in industries like medical devices, electronics, and aerospace.
Medical Machining ⚙️
Medical machining involves the precise manufacturing of components like implants, surgical tools, and diagnostic equipment, using advanced CNC techniques to meet strict medical industry standards.
