CNC machines revolutionized part manufacturing, improving productivity by increasing accuracy and material compatibility. Technological advancement, however, continues in the industry, and it shows in the day-to-day development of sophisticated machines.
Investing in a quality and project-aligned CNC machine can determine the success of your machining operation in 2024. Hence, part manufacturers should know about the best CNC machines in 2024 as it will allow them to buy the best or approach the right machining service provider.
This article will help you choose the best machine for your machining operations. It will guide you to the best CNC machines in 2024 by introducing the common types of CNC machines and the top brand manufacturers.
Common Types of CNC Machines
CNC machines are classified based on the CNC machining operations. There are four types of conventional part manufacturing, and knowing these types will make it simpler to select the right one from our best CNC machines in 2024.
CNC Milling Machines
Types
CNC mills come in four major types ( 3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis, and 3+2-axis) based on the number of axes their cutting tools can move. There is also a 6-axis milling machine although it is not common in part manufacturing industry due to its high initial cost of investment.
A 3-axis milling machine’s cutting tool can move along the horizontal (X), vertical (Y), and depth (Z) axes. Hence, they are cheaper and more suitable for machining parts with simple designs.
A 4-axis milling machine’s cutting tools move along three axes like those mounted on a 3-axis machine. In addition, they can move along the A-axis. This increase in the number of movements ensures that they can machine cylindrical or contoured parts.
The cutting tools of a 3+2 axis CNC milling machine can move along three axes. Furthermore, the machine can simultaneously position the workpiece in two additional axes. Consequently, they can machine parts with complex designs.
Lastly, a 5-axis CNC machine’s cutting tools rotate on two axes and move along 3 axes. Hence, they are the best for machining parts with complex designs.
Applications
CNC milling machines are applicable in several manufacturing industries for machining parts with complex geometries, intricate features, and tight tolerance. Examples include:
- Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing Industry
- Aerospace Industry
- Automotive Industry
Pros
- High precision and accuracy
- Versatility and efficiency
- Suitability for parts with complex designs and intricate features
Cons
- It requires a high initial investment
- Operators need to be experts in CAD/CAM software and G-code programming
- There is a need for regular maintenance.
Cost
A CNC milling machine cost depends on the size, configuration, brands, etc. Prices range from $10,000 to $20,000 for small-size machines. High-end industrial machines can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
CNC Lathing Machines
CNC lathes are like CNC mills in terms of classification. Both use several axes with an axis being the way you can approach or rotate the workpiece during machining.
There are four classifications of CNC lathes and they are 2-axis, 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis. A 2-axis CNC lathe is the basic setup with X and Z axes. This allows the machine to perform cylindrical machining, facing, drilling, and tapping. However, it doesn’t permit milling.
A 3-axis CNC lathe has an additional C axis and life tool system. Hence, they can perform milling, boring, and tapping operations. 4-axis CNC lathe goes further to add the Y-axis. This makes it possible to perform off-center machining operations and make them suitable for parts with complex designs.
Lastly, the 5-axis CNC lathe can move along five axes and the machine adds a turret that allows the usage of two or more tools simultaneously.
The workpiece rotates or turns. Hence, some CNC lathes are called CNC turning machines. Furthermore, a simple lathe has a 2-axis configuration. When a lathe machine has other features like a y-axis and sub-spindles, they are called Turning Centres.
A turning center goes beyond standard Outer and inner diameter turning operations. They further incorporate CNC operations such as milling, drilling, and tapping.
Applications of CNC Lathes
CNC lathes are applicable in several manufacturing industries for machining parts with cylindrical shapes, axial symmetries, and shapes. They are critical in the following industries:
- Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing Industry
- Aerospace Industry
- and Automotive Industry
Pros
- High precision and accuracy
- Versatility and efficiency
- Suitability for parts with complex designs and intricate features
Cons
- It requires a high initial investment
- Operators need to be experts in CAD/CAM software and G-code programming
- There is a need for regular maintenance.
Cost
A CNC lathe’s cost depends on size, configuration, brands, etc. Entry-level lathes can range from $10,000 to $50,000, Mid-range lathes can range from $50000 to $200000. Finally, high-end CNC lathes range from $200,000 to several million US dollars.
CNC Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM)
CNC electrical discharge machines operate based on electric discharge machining. The machining operation uses thermal and electrical energy to remove parts of a metal workpiece to form the desired product.
The machines differ from CNC milling and turning machines. Nevertheless, they are equally applicable in making parts with complex geometries and fine details.
Applications
CNC electrical discharge machines have wide applications in part manufacturing. Common ones include:
- Prototyping and rapid manufacturing.
- Machining of parts with complex geometries, intricate contours, and features such as tight tolerances
- Part customization and modification
Pros
- They ensure a high-quality surface finish
- Material hardness is not a limitation of the machining operation. Hence, they can machine Nimonic, tungsten carbide, hardened steel, and other hard metals.
- High level of accuracy and tight tolerance
- Machined parts do not require additional machining.
- Can machine parts of different shapes and depths
Cons
- High production cost due to excessive power consumption, tool wear, and longer machining period.
- Slower material removal rate compared to conventional machining techniques
- Compatible with conductive materials
Cost
The cost of a CNC EDM machine depends on the type of EDM process, machine size, brands, and other features.
Wire EDM machines cost between $50,000 and $1m. The cost depends on the model, as high-end models are costlier. On the other hand, Sinker EDM Machines have a price range of $30,000 to $300,000. Additional features can incur higher costs.
You can also use hobbyist CNC EDM machines for prototyping and educational purposes. They have a price range of $5,000 to $30,000.
CNC Laser Cutting Machine
There are four main types used in part manufacturing and they include:
- CO2 laser cutting machines: They use a CO2 lasing medium to generate the laser beam and are suitable for organic materials like plastics.
- Fiber laser cutting machines: They use a fiber+ytterbium laser source to generate the laser beam. Hence, they are powerful, precise, and suitable for metals and plastics/
- Neodymium (Nd:YAG) laser machines: They use a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet to generate a laser beam. They are the best option for cutting thick metals
- UV laser cutting machines: They are very accurate and are suitable for cutting thermosensitive materials. They are the best laser-cutting option for the electronics and microelectronics industry.
Applications
CNC milling machines have many uses in part manufacturing. Common ones include:
- Prototyping and rapid manufacturing.
- Machining of parts with complex geometries, intricate contours, and features such as tight tolerances
- Part customization and modification.
Pros
- Laser cutting machines’s exceptional precision allows them to make parts with intricate designs
- They can achieve tight tolerance which makes them useful in aerospace and medical device manufacturing.
- They have wide material compatibility hence applicable in virtually every part of the manufacturing industry.
- CNC laser cutting machines are efficient and consistent
- Laser cutting is a non-contact operation, that keeps intact the material integrity
Cons
- The high initial cost of investment
- Challenges with cutting thick and reflective materials
- High maintenance cost due to the need for regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance
- Release of toxic fumes during the laser-cutting process
Cost
The cost of a CNC milling machine depends on the type, features, size, brands, etc. Entry-level machines can cost between $10,000 and $50,000m. Higher-level machines can be between $100000 to $1m. Furthermore, fiber laser machines are costlier than the others due to the advanced technology involved.
The Best Brands of CNC Machines
To be on the safer side, part manufacturers should know about the best brands of CNC machines. This will help them to choose the right machine or the right CNC machining services to outsource to. As of 2024, the best brands of CNC machines you should look out for include:
Hermle
Hermle is a reputable CNC machine manufacturer and a foremost choice of efficient-focused and quality-focused part manufacturers. Their slogan “milling at its best” is an effort to showcase their innovative mindset. And it shows in their machines’ reliability and durability.
Hermle is known for its multi-axis CNC milling machines used by different industries. Their products are in two categories: High Performance Lines and Performance lines. Machines under the High Performance Line category can either be 5-axis or 3-axis.
An example is the C22 known for its large workpiece table and capability to reach a speed of 42000 rpm Other examples include the C650 and C200. Each one has unique features. However, their versatility and flexibility make them a top choice in the diverse part manufacturing industry.
Best CNC Machines From Hermle
Hermle C 650 5-Axis CNC Mill
The CNC mill is a 5-axis machining center known for precision and stability. It includes the following features:
- Heidenhain TNC 640 control
- 18,000 RPM
- 60-tool magazine
- Dynamic collision monitoring.
Hermle C 250 CNC Lathe
The C250 is a precision CNC lathe suitable for small to medium-sized businesses. It has the following features
- Siemens or Fanuc CNC control
- High-speed spindle
- Live tooling capability
- Optional Y-axis.
Hermle C 400 5-Axis CNC Mill
This is a 5-axis milling machine with exceptional accuracy. It has the following features
- Heidenhain TNC 640 control
- High-speed spindle (18,000 RPM)
- 30-tool magazine
- Dynamic collision monitoring
Makino
Makino should be on the list of the best brands of CNC machines for those who value a high level of productivity. The company is a top-rated manufacturer that prides itself on its machines’ performance. And you can see it based on their precision and accuracy.
Makino manufactures a wide range of multi-axis CNC machines. They include horizontal, vertical, EDM, Graphite machining, and grinding machines using 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis systems.
Best CNC Machines From Makino
Makino D300 Vertical Machining Center
The D300 is a high-speed vertical machining center with exceptional speed and precision. It has the following features
- High-speed spindle (20,000 RPM)
- Rapid traverse rates of 60 m/min
- High-precision linear guides.
Makino EDAF2 Sinker EDM
The EDAF2 is a CNC EDM machine suitable for complex mold-making due to its incredible accuracy and repeatability. Features include:
- High-speed machining capability
- Precise surface finishing
- Automatic electrode changer.
Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Wire EDM (EDM)
This Makino wire EDM machine has a high cutting speed, excellent surface finish, and high precision. It has the following features:
- Advanced H.E.A.T. (High Energy Applied Technology) wire EDM technology
- Thermal stability system
- Automatic wire threading
- Makino Hyper-i control.
Fanuc
Fanuc is a robot company with a record of delivering high-quality CNC machines. They are reliable in manufacturing machines of high precision and accuracy. Hence, these machines can produce parts with tight tolerances with consistent quality.
Fanuc offers a range of CNC and EDM machines that offer versatility, flexibility, and high-performance cutting. The machines have new mechanical structures discharge devices and controls that improve speed, precision, and quality.
Best CNC Machines From Fanuc
Robodrill D21MiB5 Vertical CNC Mill
The milling machine is a vertical machining center with a high speed suitable for small and medium-scale part manufacturers. It has the following features:
- High-speed spindle (24,000 RPM)
- Rapid traverse rates of 54 m/min
- 21-tool capacity automatic tool changer.
Model 2: FANUC Robocut α-CiC400iA Wire EDM Machine
The milling machine is a precision wire EDM machine with high accuracy. It is suitable for complex geometries and fine finishes. It has the following features:
- FANUC CNC control
- Automatic wire threading
- High-speed machining capability.
DMG
DMG’s over 143 years of experience makes them one of the top global CNC machine brands. With a joint venture with Japan’s Mori Seiki, the reputation of the manufacturer soars, hence, their wide acceptance in China and worldwide
DMG MORI plays a key role in high-end CNC machine manufacturing in the world. The manufacturing giant is known for making cutting-edge vertical/horizontal CNC machines, 3-axis machines, 4-axis machines, CNC turning machines, and CNC laser machines.
Best CNC Machines From DMG MORI
DMG MORI NHX 6300 Horizontal Milling Machine
It is a rigid horizontal machining center suitable for high-volume production. It has the following features:
- High-speed spindle (15,000 RPM)
- Rapid traverse rates of 60 m/min
- Pallet changer system.
DMG MORI NLX 2500 CNC Lathe
The NLX 2500 is a CNC lathe for turning operations. It has the following features:
- Slimline multi-touch control panel
- High-speed spindle
- Optional Y-axis
- Live tooling capability.
DMG MORI LASERTEC 30 SLM 2nd Generation
This CNC laser cutting machine has a high-power laser source making it accurate and capable of producing components with complex geometries. It has the following features:
- High-power laser source
- Powder nozzle
- Integrated powder handling system
- DMG MORI Lasertec control.
FAQ for Best CNC Machines
Q1: What are the most important features to look at in a CNC machine
The term “best cnc machines” involves considering several features and your machining requirements. Features include the configuration (multi-axis system), size, spindle speed, control system, and tool capacity.
Q2: What is the most used CNC machine?
CNC lathes are the most used CNC machines. They are applicable in creating cylindrical parts.
Q3: What is the biggest disadvantage of using CNC?
A main disadvantage of CNC machines is the cost. Hence, part manufacturers outsource to CNC machining services providers like Zintillon to get their projects completed
Conclusion
Investing in a quality and project-aligned CNC machine can ensure you have a smooth machining process. Hence, this article introduced the best CNC machines in 2024. From the article, you will be able to know the best machine brands. This will allow you to buy the best CNC machine or approach the right machining service provider.
