CNC machining is the ultimate technology for repair and restoration work

Ever heard of 3D printing? The ability of 3D printers to bring abstract materials to life has become an increasingly popular industry. CNC machining works in a similar way, but it is a slightly different concept.

By definition, CNC machines are electrochemical devices that are used to manipulate tools using inputs that are programmed by a computer. CNC actually stands for Computer Numerical Control. In much the same way as a 3D printer, CNC machining works to generate prototypes from digital software files. 

How CNC machining works 

At the very basic level, CNC machines can transform a piece of block plastic into a finished product through a controlled material removal process. Digital instructions are put into a computer, which then relays the instructions to the specific equipment.

The ability of computer software and models to program specific machines is the main concept behind CNC machining. This framework increases the efficiency of technical and labor-intensive processes across various industries. 

CNC machining can be used for repair and restoration 

One of the most effective uses of CNC machining lies in repair and restoration processes. Because such processes are highly sensitive, they need to be programmed accurately and with great precision.

Specific coordinates can be put into computer programs in order to facilitate the proper restoration associated with a particular repair project. CNC machining is popular for this type of work because the machines are flexible, programmable and highly efficient.

Types of CNC machines 

There are two main types of CNC machines: conventional CNC machines and novel CNC machines.  Conventional machines include:

Milling machines  

Milling machines offer the flexibility of cutting out specific pieces of material from an original stock unit. They provide the source material for many restoration projects, because they can be used to cut out the exact dimensions that are required for any particular project. 

Drills 

These types of machines have a drill tip and they work by spinning and moving about on a stationary block of solid material. 

Electrical and chemical machining 

As restoration work continues to demand increasingly effective processes, CNC machining has evolved to include specialized technologies that can cut material with exact precision. These technologies utilize electronic beams, chemical and ultrasonic signals in their operation.

They can also be used in the mass production of specific types of material. Repair work is therefore improved with these devices, because specific parts can be developed in large capacities.