Different types of CNC machines explained

If you want to improve productivity and safety in your workshop, a CNC machine is well worth the investment. This will not only enhance efficiency and work speed, but will also reduce errors and improve workplace safety.

At Surefire CNC, we’re passionate about helping Australian fabricators adopt CNC machinery – automation helps Australian manufacturing to compete on the world stage. Choosing the right CNC machine can be a challenge, however.

In this article, we explain what a CNC machine is, the different types available, and how to choose the right one for your application. 

What is a CNC machine?

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, referring to the computer software that controls the machine. This allows you to automate the cutting process, enhancing productivity, minimising waste, and mitigating risks. In the manufacturing industry, CNC machines have become indispensable tools for enhancing consistency and ensuring precision. 

Benefits of CNC machines

• Automated tasks
• Increased efficiency
• Improved workplace safety
• Precision
• Consistency 

By harnessing the power of CNC technology, you can streamline your production processes, minimise material waste, and deliver high-quality products to meet the demands of your customers. 

Types of CNC machines

With several types of CNC machines available, choosing the right one for your application can be daunting. To help you, we delve into the different types of CNC machines, their functionalities, and key considerations for selecting the ideal machine for your workshop.

The main types of CNC machines include:

• CNC milling machines
• CNC lathes
• CNC laser cutters
• CNC plasma cutters. 

CNC Milling Machine

CNC milling machines are used for drilling and cutting. The workpiece is loaded into the machine and the computer guides the tools to perform tasks. Milling CNC machines typically come in configurations with three to six axes.

CNC Lathe Machine

Lathe CNC machines are used to rotate materials during operation. A central lathe manipulates and positions the material as programmed on the computer, allowing it to be worked on in the correct position. 

CNC Laser Cutting Machine

Generally used for profile cutting sheets of steel, laser cutting CNC machines employ a thin and focused laser beam to melt, burn, or vaporise certain materials, creating the cut or etch you need for your custom designs, patterns, and shapes. While lasers offer superior cutting precision, they are generally a lot more expensive than CNC plasma machines, especially when cutting steel plate thicker than 6mm.

Laser machines can excel in high production of thin sheet profile cutting. Please note that a laser beam is more dangerous than plasma, so safety and protection is of utmost importance.

CNC Plasma Cutting Machine

CNC plasma cutter machines are used to cut materials with a high-powered plasma arc, which can slice through electrically conductive materials like steel, aluminium, brass, and copper. CNC plasma machines are usually more economical than laser machines, and less complicated. This makes CNC plasma an attractive proposition for first-time buyers, or small to medium-sized workshops.

Benefits of a CNC plasma cutting machine include:

• Enhanced safety and automation
• Faster cutting times and improved efficiency
• Ease of use
• Versatility for cutting various materials
• Precise, clean cuts
• Cost-effective running costs.

CNC Plasma Cutter Australia

For detailed information on CNC plasma machines, consult Surefire CNC. We specialise in CNC plasma cutters, including the following products. 

XT SERIES – CNC Plasma Cutting Machines

Available in a range of sizes, the XT Series CNC Plasma cutter tables are developed specifically to meet the needs of Australian and New Zealand metal fabricators. These units are durable and suitable for industrial use, easy to operate, locally backed up with Australian technical support, and highly cost-effective.

Whether you’re a first-time user or just looking to up-spec your capacity, an XT Series table enables you to design and cut metal parts in your workshop with ease. They’re available as a complete CNC customised package, including the plasma cutting table, plasma cutter, software, and a full suite of accessories.

XT12

The XT12 is the smallest of the XT range, with a 1220mm by 1220mm cutting area, suitable for 4ft by 4ft sheets. The flatbed design makes it easy to load materials and the waterbed offers cost-effective fume control and reduces heat-related warpage. 

XT24

The XT24 is a steel construction table with a cutting area of 1220mm by 2440mm, suitable for 4ft by 8ft sheets. The flatbed design makes material loading much easier and the waterbed offers cost-effective fume control and heat-related warpage control. 

XT30

Larger than the XT24, the XT30 has a cutting area of 1525mm by 3050mm, suitable for 5ft by 10ft sheets. The flatbed design makes it easy to load your workpieces and the waterbed enhances control of fumes and heat-related warpage. 

Our CNC software — SureControl™

The workhorse of CNC machines is the software, which controls the machine and determines how it operates. At Surefire CNC, we have SURECONTROL™ – intuitive, simple and powerful software, designed to be easy to use for typical workshop operators.

To find out more about your CNC plasma cutting options, explore the XT Series on our website or download our free Buyer's Guide. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about our range from product specifications, to pricing.