CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are automated tools that are controlled by computer-simulated programming commands. CNC technology began to develop in the 1940s and 1950s. At that time, CNC technology was based on materials processing tools and machines. The first CNC machine tool was manufactured at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T), and it marked an important milestone in the manufacturing process. Unlike today's computer-controlled machines, this machine uses drilled ribbons for operation. Since then, CNC technology has continued to develop and become more and more advanced. It is almost impossible to imagine modern machine tools without CNC.

Advantages of using CNC technology

It is unthinkable that CNC technology cannot be used to produce metal parts today. The benefits of using CNC machine tools are many. Some of these are reflected in the flexibility of the machining process (especially in CNC milling and drilling), accuracy and (CNC cutting) processing speed.

One of the most important and biggest advantages of using CNC machine tools in metal processing is that CNC can perform multiple operations in one work cycle. For example, in this way, the CNC center can be programmed to perform surface grinding, drilling, and milling, and everything can be integrated into one program.

How does CNC change the metal industry?

Time is an important consideration in metal processing projects. By using CNC to machine metal, the time required for individual processing is greatly reduced. In addition, CNC machining can increase the processing speed, and repeated processing only needs to start the program simply.

On the other hand, metal processing without the use of CNC technology requires a thorough adjustment of the tool and machine during rework. Through the use of CNC technology, the size of the machining site can be reduced. Now one machine can be used to create a machining project, but in the past it would require several.

Although CNC technology and CNC machining have obvious advantages, there are also some disadvantages. The disadvantage is related to the high cost of this technology. Previously, only large and developed companies could obtain CNC systems. Another disadvantage is that employees are required to have specific knowledge related to programming, which raises the threshold of operation.