What Is CNC?
What Is a CNC Machine?
CNC machining enables the creation of parts and components that would usually be impossible to
create manually. A single set of prompts fed into a computer can produce complex 3D products.
The CNC machine removes material from the base stock piece through drilling, milling, turning
or other types of operations to create shapes, angles and the finished product.
The answer to “What is CNC?” is to think about the process as a blending of technology and
physical tools. Computers take input from CNC machinists, who translate drawings into a
programming language called G-code. The CNC machine then dictates to the tool what speed and
movement to follow in order to create the desired part or object.
If you’ve ever wondered “What does CNC stand for?” and are curious what a CNC machinist career
looks like, read on.
What Does CNC Mean?
Have you ever wondered, “What does CNC stand for?” CNC machining, or CNC manufacturing, is a
process using computer numerical control (CNC) machines, which are tools such as mills and
lathes guided by computer instructions that control the precision of the instruments.
What CNC Machinists Do
There are many fields where CNC machinists can work, including automotive, manufacturing,
dental, computer part production, aerospace, tool and die making, motorsports, and medical
industries. CNC machinists read blueprints and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and
computer-aided design (CAD) files. They set up and manage CNC machine tool operation. They have
to measure and test completed products to ensure they’re perfect. And they modify CNC processes
as needed.
CNC machinists have a hand in making joint replacements and other implants for the human body.
CNC machines create large components, like automobile frames and doors, and small parts, like
those found on medical devices.
CNC machining uses all types of material, from plastics and metals to wood, foam and fiberglass.
CNC machine tools improve automation, making it possible to reduce or eliminate operator
intervention for producing quality products.
CNC machines are fast and efficient. They reduce
the likelihood of mistakes caused by human error or operator fatigue.
CNC machines also provide flexibility. Since theye are run from programs, you simply need to
load a new program or add a new prompt to an existing program by revising the code if you want
to create a new part. Once the program is verified after you’ve tested it, you can use that
program in the future whenever you want to produce the same part.
Who is a Fit for a Career in CNC Machining?
Problem solvers who are mechanically minded may be a fit for CNC machining, since math and
communication skills are essential qualities for CNC machinists. CNC machinists must possess
strong attention to detail, be able to work autonomously and independently, excel at following
directions, and have a grasp of computers in order to be successful.
“Machinists are a little OCD,” says Tech instructor Craig G. “They like to be in control and
like to seek perfection. We live in a world of small tolerances.”
CNC instructor Andrew agrees.
“I think the people who tend to make the best machinists are people who like working with their
hands but have a great attention to detail,” Collier says. “Quick example: I moved into a new
house and was hanging a 60-inch TV on my wall. I finished, and stepped back and said to my
wife, ‘That isn’t level.’ ”
Andrew continues, “My wife says, ‘What do you mean? It looks great,’ as I walk over to the TV
with a tape measure. I exclaim, ‘No, this side is an 3.18 mm higher.’ That is most machinists I
know in a nutshell.”
No machines are perfect. CNC machinists must be prepared to troubleshoot problems as their
machines operate. From start to finish of a project, there are always important details to monitor.
Since every part is different and presents its own challenges, CNC machinists always have to be thinking critically, which makes their careers interesting.
