CNC machine tools, simply put, are machine tools with added CNC systems. However, CNC machine tools are not simply about adding a CNC system. The most advanced machining equipment in the mechanical processing industry uses CNC technology, including CNC lathes, CNC milling machines, CNC milling and boring machines, CNC machining centers, and CNC wire cutting machines. CNC technology refers to using digital signals to program and control the machining process of a machine tool through a computer.
Using CNC machine tools to complete the machining process has advantages that are incomparable to those of ordinary machine tools:
1. It can significantly improve productivity. After the workpiece is clamped, the pre-programmed machining program is input, and the machine tool will automatically complete the machining process. When the machined parts change, generally only the CNC program needs to be changed, thus greatly shortening the machining time and increasing productivity by several times compared to ordinary machine tools.
2. It has very high machining accuracy and the product quality is very stable. Because it is automated according to the program, the machining accuracy can be corrected and compensated by software, so extremely high machining accuracy can be obtained. Nowadays, almost all high-end, precision and advanced products in various enterprises are manufactured using CNC machine tools.
3. High degree of automation greatly reduces labor intensity and significantly blurs the distinction between physical and mental labor. The work process of CNC machine tool operators involves high technological content, requiring high levels of skill from operators and even higher technical expertise from maintenance personnel. They are no longer considered "blue-collar workers" in the traditional sense. Those who can operate CNC machine tools are called "gray-collar" workers; those who understand CNC machine tool maintenance are called "silver-collar" workers; and CNC generalists who can both operate and maintain are called "gold-collar" workers.
CNC machine tools effectively solve the problem of machining complex, precise, small-batch, and multi-variety parts. They are flexible, high-efficiency automated machine tools that represent the development direction of modern machine tool control technology and are a typical mechatronics product.
