CNC milling machines are also known as machining centers. These machines are computer controlled as with all CNC machines. They operate on the Z axis and are vertical mills that move vertically. They offer precision and speed where one aspect does not affect the other. These CNC milling machines offer a cost effective alternative to hand engraving, flat surface work.
The most advanced of the milling cnc machines are the 5 axis machines that offer a wide range of capabilities. Horizontal milling machines are available and this is usually the lines of the 5 axis CNC milling machines. Basically, with the 5 axis machines, virtually any project can be done. One could sculpt the human head with ease with one of these machines.
At one time the machines were quite expensive to purchase and to operate. Now, because of the declination in the cost of computers and the availability of free operating systems, the CNC milling machines have dropped to more affordable prices. This has allowed many more shops to take advantage of this type of technology and has caused more competition in the machining industry. The shops now usually specialize in the type of work that they do.
There is a variety of different tools that can be used with this type of machinery. In the US, the most common CNC miller tooling is the CAT tooling; however, now a better alternative called BT tooling as raised the bar. BT tooling can be easily confused with CAT, so be careful.
The CNC milling machine can be either purchased brand new or as a used product. There are companies who specialize in milling CNC machines that cater to specific industries. A used milling machine or machining center can be more cost effective and can come with some type of service and warranty package if purchased from the right dealer. With these types of machines, because of the larger expense that it can put onto a company, it is tempting to go with a cheaper, used version; however, that may not always be best. Make sure that if you do purchase a used machine that there is some kind of guarantee and that the machine was taken out while still in operation.
CNC milling machines can come in many different types. There are gun drilling machines, horizontal boring mills, five axis milling machines, and many more. There are several different manufacturers of these machines that include top brands such as: Heidenhain, Phoenix, TOS and VTEC just to name a few. If interested in purchasing a top of the line machine, make sure that the dealer offers service solutions to help with upkeep and maintenance of the machine in the early stages until someone from your company can learn how to do it. Well established dealers can offer rebuilding services of old CNC milling machines. This too can be a cost effective alternative to purchasing brand new.
To learn more about CNC milling machines, contact your dealer. They will be able to offer answers to your questions on a wide range of issues that is related to CNC milling machines.
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