В современном производстве, why do aerospace engineers choose 5-Машины оси с ЧПУ 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, процессы, и варианты использования. Choosing the wrong category leads to wasted costs, медленное производство, or failed parts. В этой статье разбивается 6 core classifications of CNC machining, их ключевые особенности, реальные приложения, and selection tips, helping you match the right CNC solution to your project needs.
What Are the Core Classifications of CNC Machining?
Обработка с ЧПУ (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 критические факторы: 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 | Совместимость материала | Идеальные приложения |
| Metal Cutting Processing | – Поворот: Shapes rotating workpieces (НАПРИМЕР., валы) to create outer circles, end faces. – Фрезерование: Резает сложные формы (слоты, отверстия) with rotating tools. – Скучный: Expands existing holes for higher accuracy. – Бурение: Creates through/blind holes with drill bits. – Погашение: Finishes drilled holes to improve surface smoothness. – Tapping: Adds internal threads to holes. | Ferrous metals (сталь, железо), Нерухозные металлы (алюминий, медь, титан). | – Поворот: Automotive engine shafts, велосипедные педали. – Фрезерование: Полости плесени, laptop chassis. – Бурение: Electronic enclosure mounting holes. |
| Non-Metallic Material Processing | – Лазерная резка: Uses high-energy lasers to melt/vaporize materials. – Водяная струя резка: Cuts with high-velocity water (plus abrasives for hard materials). – Электрическая обработка (Эдм): Removes material via electrode-workpiece discharge (for conductive materials). – Ultrasonic Machining: Uses high-frequency vibrations + abrasives to shape brittle materials. | Пластмассы (АБС, Заглядывать), стекло, керамика, композиты (углеродное волокно). | – Лазерная резка: Acrylic signage, plastic packaging. – Водяная струя резка: Stone countertops, glass panels. – Эдм: Carbide tooling, вставки плесени. – 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 | Accuracy Level | Идеальные приложения |
| Point Control Machines | Only controls tool position (no continuous path); moves directly from one point to another. | ± 0,01 мм (position accuracy); no path control. | Drilling machines (hole positioning), boring machines (single-hole expansion). |
| Linear Control Machines | Moves tool along straight paths (Х, У, Z.) while cutting; supports constant feed rates. | ± 0,005 мм (linear accuracy); uniform surface finish. | Simple milling machines (flat surface cutting), токарные (straight shaft turning). |
| Contour Control Machines | Moves tool along complex curved trajectories (НАПРИМЕР., circles, parabolas); supports multi-axis linkage. | ± 0,003 мм (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 | Ключевые функции | Labor Requirement | Ideal Production Scale |
| Semi-Automatic CNC Machines | Automates cutting/machining but needs manual steps (НАПРИМЕР., workpiece clamping, Изменения инструмента). | 1 operator per machine; constant supervision for manual tasks. | Маленькие партии (10–50 деталей), custom prototypes (НАПРИМЕР., 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. | Масштабная продукция (1,000+ части), mass manufacturing (НАПРИМЕР., Автомобильные компоненты). |
4. Classification by Degrees of Freedom (Количество топоров)
The number of axes (линейный + rotary) determines the machine’s ability to access complex part geometries. This is the most widely used classification for industrial CNC selection.
| Количество топоров | Key Axes Configuration | Возможности | Ideal Industries/Parts |
| 3-Машины оси с ЧПУ | 3 linear axes (Х, У, Z.); tool moves along these axes to cut fixed workpieces. | Handles 2D/3D parts with simple geometries; no undercutting or complex curves. | Общее производство (скобки, simple gears), потребительские товары (пластиковые корпуса). |
| 4-Машины оси с ЧПУ | 3 linear axes + 1 rotary axis (НАПРИМЕР., Ось: rotates around X-axis). | Accesses side/angled features; reduces workpiece repositioning by 50%. | Аэрокосмическая (simple engine parts), медицинский (bone screws with angled holes). |
| 5-Машины оси с ЧПУ | 3 linear axes + 2 rotary axes (НАПРИМЕР., А + B axes); tool can tilt/rotate freely. | Machines complex 3D surfaces (НАПРИМЕР., турбинные лезвия) in one setup. | Аэрокосмическая (Компоненты реактивного двигателя), форма & умирать (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.
| Поле приложения | Machine Features | Material Focus | Пример части |
| General-Purpose CNC Machines | Универсальный; works with multiple materials and part types; easy to reconfigure. | Металлы, пластмассы, композиты. | Генеральная техника (коробки передач), Мебельное оборудование (петли), electronic brackets. |
| Specialized CNC Machines | Customized for industry-specific needs (НАПРИМЕР., Высокотемпературное сопротивление, Небольшая часть точности). | Industry-specific materials (НАПРИМЕР., titanium for aerospace, food-grade stainless steel for medical). | – Автомобиль: Engine block machining lines. – Медицинский: Dental implant mills. – Аэрокосмическая: Titanium component lathes. |
6. Other Special Classifications
These include machines with unique, combined functions—designed to solve niche manufacturing challenges.
| Special Type | Key Functions | Ключевое преимущество | Идеальные варианты использования |
| Multi-Processing Machines | Combines 2+ machining types (НАПРИМЕР., поворот + фрезерование, бурение + лазерная резка) in one machine. | Eliminates workpiece transfer between machines; сокращает время производства 40%. | Complex parts needing multiple processes (НАПРИМЕР., 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 (НАПРИМЕР., microelectronic components); высокая точность (±0.0001mm). | Microelectronics (semiconductor chips), медицинские устройства (micro-needles), аэрокосмическая (Микросенсоры). |
How to Choose the Right CNC Machining Classification?
Follow this 4-step process to avoid mismatched selections:
- Define Material & Геометрия:
- If working with metal shafts → Metal cutting (поворот) + 3-Ось CNC.
- If making complex aerospace turbine blades → Contour control + 5-Ось CNC.
- Match Automation to Volume:
- Маленькие партии (10 части) → Semi-automatic CNC.
- Массовое производство (10,000 части) → Fully automatic CNC.
- Consider Budget & ROI:
- 5-axis machines cost 2–3x more than 3-axis models—only invest if complex parts justify the expense.
- Тест с прототипами:
- For high-stakes projects (НАПРИМЕР., Медицинские имплантаты), run a prototype on the chosen CNC type to validate accuracy and efficiency.
Перспектива Yigu Technology
В Yigu Technology, 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, объем, 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.
Часто задаваемые вопросы
- Q.: Can a 5-axis CNC machine replace a 3-axis machine for simple parts?
А: Технически да, Но это не экономически эффективно. 5-axis machines have higher upfront costs (2–3x more) and longer setup times for simple parts. Stick to 3-axis machines for brackets, передачи, or enclosures to save money.
- Q.: Which CNC classification is best for non-metallic materials like glass?
А: 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?
А: Fully automatic machines are 2–3x more productive. Например, a semi-automatic CNC makes 50 частей/день (with operator breaks), while a fully automatic one makes 120–150 parts/day (24/7 operation with minimal labor).