A computer numerical control (CNC) machine is used in manufacturing to convert stock material into finished components for industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, consumer goods, industrial machinery, and more.

CNC stands for “computer numerical control” (or “computer numerically controlled”) and represents the use of computerized systems to control the movement and function of the mechanical elements of the machine.

A CNC machine tool converts an initial piece of material into a finished product. CNC machines include milling, additive, and hybrid machines, as well as routers, laser, or waterjet cutters. Most CNC machines support a subtractive manufacturing process (the removal of material from the initial stock); an additive manufacturing process (the deposition of material onto the initial stock–that is, 3D printing); or hybrid manufacturing (a combination of both additive and subtractive processes). A CNC machine uses numerical code (NC) data files to control the motion and function of the machine. These files are generally produced using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software and are configured to include commands that tell the machine what to do.

CNC machines are well suited to automation as they carry out tasks with high levels of accuracy and repeatability. Traditionally, these machines were programmed by a human operator manually entering the machine commands. This “manual programming” may be acceptable for simple machining tasks but is not suitable as the complexity of the parts being made increases. The simplest way to automate a CNC machine is to use CAM software to produce NC code that tells the machine what to do. As the NC code can be repeated, CNC machines can be used to produce parts in large numbers. More advanced automation, such as the use of robots and palletization systems, can allow CNC machines to operate for longer periods of time with minimal human intervention, resulting in increased levels of productivity.

Advanced manufacturing considers the use of innovative technologies to create better quality products in a smarter, more cost-effective way. Examples of advanced manufacturing technologies include additive manufacturing (such as 3D printing, powder-bed laser printing, directed energy deposition, or fused filament fabrication); advanced materials (such as composites and exotic alloys); and automation (such as robotics, process simulation, and verification, as well as cloud-based artificial intelligence). In all cases, advanced manufacturing aims to allow better quality products to be made, and done so faster, using fewer natural resources, with lower levels of waste, and with greater flexibility to adapt to meet changing customer needs.

Traditional manufacturing relies on manual processes that depend on an abundant supply of skilled workers to design components, devise how they should be manufactured, and ensure accuracy of the production process. Relying on human workers increases inconsistent production quantity and quality and limits the manufacturer’s ability to improve how products are manufactured. Advanced manufacturing uses current technologies and processes so manufacturers can produce components to suite their requirements. It embraces technologies such as up-front simulation and verification, AI, and additive manufacturing. These advances positively impact the parts that are being made–allowing them to be made stronger, lighter, faster, cheaper, while also using fewer natural resources with reduced levels of waste. Advanced manufacturing also enables mass customization, allowing products to be made that are more suited to the customer’s individual needs, helping these higher value products to be brought to market faster. And it allows the manufacturers behind them to gain a competitive edge, grow their market share, and be more successful.