Dans la fabrication moderne, why do aerospace engineers choose 5-Machines Axe CNC while a small workshop uses 3-axis models? The answer lies in understanding the classifications of CNC machining—a framework that groups CNC systems by their capabilities, processus, et les cas d'utilisation. Choosing the wrong category leads to wasted costs, production lente, or failed parts. Cet article décompose 6 core classifications of CNC machining, Leurs principales caractéristiques, Applications du monde réel, et conseils de sélection, helping you match the right CNC solution to your project needs.
What Are the Core Classifications of CNC Machining?
Usinage CNC (Computer Numerical Control machining) uses automated systems to shape materials, but not all CNC setups are the same. The industry classifies CNC machining based on 6 facteurs critiques: processing technology, machine tool movement, automation degree, number of axes (degrees of freedom), application field, and special functional designs. Each classification solves unique manufacturing challenges—for example, metal cutting CNC machines handle shafts and gears, while laser cutting systems process non-metallic materials like glass.
1. Classification by Processing Technology
This category groups CNC machining by the type of material and the method used to shape it. It’s the most fundamental classification, as it directly ties to the material you’re working with. The table below details the two main subcategories and their key methods:
| Processing Category | Key Methods | Compatibilité des matériaux | Applications idéales |
| Metal Cutting Processing | – Tournant: Shapes rotating workpieces (Par exemple, arbres) to create outer circles, faces d'extrémité. – Fraisage: Coupe les formes complexes (machines à sous, trous) with rotating tools. – Ennuyeux: Expands existing holes for higher accuracy. – Forage: Creates through/blind holes with drill bits. – Alésage: Finishes drilled holes to improve surface smoothness. – Tapotement: Adds internal threads to holes. | Métaux ferreux (acier, fer), métaux non ferreux (aluminium, cuivre, titane). | – Tournant: Automotive engine shafts, pédales de vélo. – Fraisage: Cavités de moule, laptop chassis. – Forage: Electronic enclosure mounting holes. |
| Non-Metallic Material Processing | – Coupure laser: Uses high-energy lasers to melt/vaporize materials. – Couper à jet d'eau: Cuts with high-velocity water (plus abrasives for hard materials). – Usinage à décharge électrique (GED): Removes material via electrode-workpiece discharge (for conductive materials). – Ultrasonic Machining: Uses high-frequency vibrations + abrasives to shape brittle materials. | Plastiques (Abs, Jeter un coup d'œil), verre, céramique, composites (fibre de carbone). | – Coupure laser: Acrylic signage, plastic packaging. – Couper à jet d'eau: Stone countertops, glass panels. – GED: Carbide tooling, inserts de moisissure. – Ultrasonic Machining: Ceramic medical implants, glass lenses. |
2. Classification by Machine Tool Movement Mode
This classification focuses on how the CNC machine’s tool and workpiece move relative to each other. It determines the complexity of shapes you can produce—from simple holes to curved aerospace parts.
| Movement Mode | Key Capabilities | Niveau de précision | Applications idéales |
| Point Control Machines | Only controls tool position (no continuous path); moves directly from one point to another. | ± 0,01 mm (position accuracy); no path control. | Drilling machines (hole positioning), boring machines (single-hole expansion). |
| Linear Control Machines | Moves tool along straight paths (X, Oui, Haches z) while cutting; supports constant feed rates. | ± 0,005 mm (linear accuracy); uniform surface finish. | Simple milling machines (flat surface cutting), tours (straight shaft turning). |
| Contour Control Machines | Moves tool along complex curved trajectories (Par exemple, cercles, parabolas); supports multi-axis linkage. | ± 0,003 mm (contour accuracy); handles 3D shapes. | Multi-axis machining centers (aerospace wing parts), mold-making machines (curved cavities). |
3. Classification by Degree of Automation
Automation level dictates how much human intervention is needed—critical for production volume and labor costs.
| Automation Level | Caractéristiques clés | Exigence de main-d'œuvre | Ideal Production Scale |
| Semi-Automatic CNC Machines | Automates cutting/machining but needs manual steps (Par exemple, workpiece clamping, Modifications de l'outil). | 1 Opérateur par machine; constant supervision for manual tasks. | Petits lots (10–50 pièces), custom prototypes (Par exemple, one-off mold inserts). |
| Fully Automatic CNC Machines | Handles the entire process automatically: auto loading/unloading, auto tool change, auto quality checks. | 1 operator manages 2–3 machines; minimal supervision. | Production à volume élevé (1,000+ parties), mass manufacturing (Par exemple, composants automobiles). |
4. Classification by Degrees of Freedom (Nombre de haches)
The number of axes (linéaire + rotary) determines the machine’s ability to access complex part geometries. This is the most widely used classification for industrial CNC selection.
| Nombre de haches | Key Axes Configuration | Capabilities | Ideal Industries/Parts |
| 3-Machines Axe CNC | 3 linear axes (X, Oui, Z); tool moves along these axes to cut fixed workpieces. | Handles 2D/3D parts with simple geometries; no undercutting or complex curves. | Fabrication générale (supports, simple gears), biens de consommation (enclos en plastique). |
| 4-Machines Axe CNC | 3 linear axes + 1 rotary axis (Par exemple, Axe A: rotates around X-axis). | Accesses side/angled features; reduces workpiece repositioning by 50%. | Aérospatial (simple engine parts), médical (bone screws with angled holes). |
| 5-Machines Axe CNC | 3 linear axes + 2 rotary axes (Par exemple, UN + B axes); tool can tilt/rotate freely. | Machines complex 3D surfaces (Par exemple, lames de turbine) in one setup. | Aérospatial (composants de moteur à réaction), moule & mourir (deep cavities with undercuts), luxury automotive (curved body panels). |
5. Classification by Application Field
CNC machines are often tailored to specific industries—optimized for their unique materials and part requirements.
| Champ de candidature | Machine Features | Material Focus | Exemples de pièces |
| General-Purpose CNC Machines | Polyvalent; works with multiple materials and part types; easy to reconfigure. | Métaux, plastiques, composites. | Machines générales (boîtes de vitesses), matériel de meuble (charnières), supports électroniques. |
| Specialized CNC Machines | Customized for industry-specific needs (Par exemple, résistance à haute température, précision de petite partie). | Industry-specific materials (Par exemple, titanium for aerospace, food-grade stainless steel for medical). | – Automobile: Engine block machining lines. – Médical: Dental implant mills. – Aérospatial: Titanium component lathes. |
6. Other Special Classifications
These include machines with unique, combined functions—designed to solve niche manufacturing challenges.
| Special Type | Fonctions clés | Avantage clé | Cas d'utilisation idéaux |
| Multi-Processing Machines | Combines 2+ machining types (Par exemple, tournant + fraisage, forage + coupure laser) in one machine. | Eliminates workpiece transfer between machines; réduit le temps de production par 40%. | Complex parts needing multiple processes (Par exemple, automotive shafts with milled slots, medical tools with drilled holes + threaded ends). |
| Micromachining Machines | Focuses on ultra-small parts/features; achieves nanometer-level resolution. | Processes parts as small as 0.1mm (Par exemple, microelectronic components); haute précision (±0.0001mm). | Microelectronics (semiconductor chips), dispositifs médicaux (micro-needles), aérospatial (micro-capteurs). |
How to Choose the Right CNC Machining Classification?
Follow this 4-step process to avoid mismatched selections:
- Define Material & Géométrie:
- If working with metal shafts → Metal cutting (tournant) + 3-axe cnc.
- If making complex aerospace turbine blades → Contour control + 5-axe cnc.
- Match Automation to Volume:
- Petits lots (10 parties) → Semi-automatic CNC.
- Production de masse (10,000 parties) → Fully automatic CNC.
- Tenez compte du budget & ROI:
- 5-axis machines cost 2–3x more than 3-axis models—only invest if complex parts justify the expense.
- Tester avec des prototypes:
- For high-stakes projects (Par exemple, implants médicaux), run a prototype on the chosen CNC type to validate accuracy and efficiency.
Perspective de la technologie Yigu
À la technologie Yigu, we believe understanding classifications of CNC machining is the first step to smart manufacturing. Our product line covers all key classifications: 3/4/5-axis CNC machines for metal cutting, fully automatic lines for high-volume production, and specialized micromachining systems for microelectronics. We help clients select the right category by analyzing their material, volume, and geometry needs—for example, a automotive supplier switched from 3-axis to 5-axis machines, cutting part rework by 60%. As Industry 4.0 advances, we’re integrating AI into all classifications to auto-optimize tool paths, making CNC selection and operation even more accessible.
FAQ
- Q: Can a 5-axis CNC machine replace a 3-axis machine for simple parts?
UN: Techniquement oui, Mais ce n'est pas rentable. 5-axis machines have higher upfront costs (2–3x more) and longer setup times for simple parts. Stick to 3-axis machines for brackets, engrenages, or enclosures to save money.
- Q: Which CNC classification is best for non-metallic materials like glass?
UN: Non-metallic material processing—specifically ultrasonic machining (for brittle glass) or laser cutting (for precise glass panels). Avoid metal cutting CNC machines, as they’ll crack or shatter glass.
- Q: How much more productive is a fully automatic CNC machine vs. a semi-automatic one?
UN: Fully automatic machines are 2–3x more productive. Par exemple, a semi-automatic CNC makes 50 parties/jour (with operator breaks), while a fully automatic one makes 120–150 parts/day (24/7 operation with minimal labor).