Understanding CNC machine classification is fundamental for any workshop seeking to optimize its processes and maximize profitability. Choosing the right machinery is not just a technical decision, but a strategic investment that defines production capacity, part precision, and market competitiveness. An informed choice will allow you to acquire the technology you truly need, avoiding unnecessary expenses on features you won't use or, conversely, falling short on capabilities that could open up new business opportunities. As your competitive partner, Vurcon helps you navigate these options to find the solution with the best value for money.

How are CNC machines classified?

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines can be organized into different categories based on specific criteria. There is no single way to classify them, as each criterion answers a different question about the machine: What does it do? How does it move? How reliable is its electronic control system? And what technology does it use to shape the material? The most important classifications for a professional in the field are based on the type of operation they perform, their kinematic complexity (number of axes), the control system they employ, and their level of automation.

Classification according to the type of operation

This is the most fundamental criterion and divides the machines according to the nature of their work on the piece, whether by removing, adding or shaping material.

Chip removal machines

These are the most common machining operations, and their function is to remove material from a raw block to shape it. Precision and efficiency in this process are key to profitability.

• CNC lathes : The workpiece rotates at high speed while the stationary tool shapes it. They are essential for components with axial symmetry such as shafts, bushings, or bolts.

• CNC machining centers or milling machines : The tool rotates and moves to remove material, while the workpiece remains stationary. Vurcon machining centers , thanks to their cast iron construction, guarantee high performance. Rigidity that minimizes vibrations. For you, this translates directly into tangible benefits: a better surface finish that reduces or eliminates manual polishing, and a longer lifespan for your cutting tools. and the ability to perform more aggressive roughing to shorten cycle times.

Surface finishing and forming machines

These teams focus on the final stage of production or on processes that do not involve chip cutting.

• CNC grinding machines : Their objective is not to give the main shape, but to improve the surface quality and achieve very tight dimensional tolerances by means of an abrasive wheel.

• CNC presses and bending machines : They do not remove material, but rather deform it plastically to give it shape, being essential in the sheet metal industry.

Additive manufacturing

Popularly known as 3D printing , this technology works in the opposite way to machining. Instead of removing material, it adds it layer by layer to build the part from scratch, allowing for geometries impossible with traditional methods.

Classification according to the number of axes

The number of axes determines the machine's freedom of movement and, therefore, the complexity of the parts it can manufacture in a single configuration. More axes translate into less manual intervention, greater precision, and shorter cycle times.

• 2- and 3-axis machines : These are the industry standard. A basic lathe operates on 2 axes (X, Z). A 3-axis (X, Y, Z) vertical machining center can manufacture a wide variety of parts, but can only access the workpiece from one direction, requiring the operator to manually rotate it to machine other faces.

• 4-axis machines : These add a rotation axis (A-axis) to the 3-axis configuration. This allows machining multiple faces of a workpiece without removing it, resulting in a significant increase in efficiency.

• 5-axis machines : These represent the most advanced technology, with three linear and two rotational axes. They allow the tool to approach the workpiece from any angle, making it possible to manufacture extremely complex geometries in a single setup.

Connecting axes with profitability

The decision to invest in more axes should be based on the return on investment. Here are some key factors to consider when to take the leap:

• Consider a 4th axis when more than 30% of your parts require multi-sided machining. The investment pays for itself quickly by eliminating downtime and manual positioning errors.

• The move to 5-axis machining is justified if it can eliminate two or more clamping points per complex part. This not only drastically reduces setup time but also opens the door to geometries that were previously impossible or unprofitable to manufacture.

Practical example: A customer in the industrial maintenance sector reduced the manufacturing of a complex spare part from 4 hours (on 3 axes, with 3 different clamping points) to just 1.5 hours on a Vurcon 4-axis machining center , by being able to complete 90% of the part in a single operation.

Classification according to the control system

If the mechanical structure is the body of the machine, the control system is its brain. Its architecture defines the reliability and precision with which movements are executed, making it a key differentiator of quality.

• Open-loop systems : The controller sends a command to the motor and assumes it has been fulfilled , without any verification. These systems are cheaper but less precise, as they cannot detect or correct errors such as missed steps, which accumulates unacceptable inaccuracies in a professional environment.

• Closed-loop systems : These incorporate a feedback system (an encoder ) that constantly informs the controller about the actual position of the axis. If there is a deviation, the system corrects it in real time. All precision industrial machines, such as Vurcon lathes and machining centers , use closed-loop systems to guarantee the maximum reliability and repeatability demanded by the market.

Classification according to the degree of automation

Although all CNC machines are inherently automatic, their degree of autonomy can vary significantly.

• Standard CNC machines : They require the intervention of an operator to load and unload the parts and supervise the process.

• Flexible manufacturing cells : These integrate elements such as automatic pallet changers (APCs) or robotic arms for loading and unloading parts. These systems can operate for hours with minimal supervision, dramatically increasing productivity.

• Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) : These are fully automated production lines that connect several CNC machines and storage systems through a central controller.

Which CNC machine is right for my workshop?

Selecting a CNC machine is a strategic investment that should go beyond price. It's not about acquiring the most advanced technology, but rather the one that offers the best return on investment for your specific applications.

To help you identify your profile, consider these common scenarios:

• If you manufacture short runs of complex parts (e.g., molds, prototypes): Your priority should be versatility and reduced setup times . A 5-axis machining center is the most cost-effective long-term investment, as it minimizes setups and allows for advanced geometries.

• If you manufacture long runs of simpler parts (e.g., automotive, bar machining): Your priority is cycle time and automation . A lathe with a bar feeder or a horizontal machining center with an automatic pallet changer (APC) will offer you maximum productivity and a lower cost per part.

• If your workshop specializes in maintenance or auxiliary production, flexibility and quick setup are key . A Vurcon 3- or 4-axis vertical machining center offers excellent value and the ability to respond quickly to any unforeseen need.

At Vurcon, we understand these differences. Our approach is based on tailored advice to determine the configuration that best suits your needs. We not only help you choose the machine with the best value for money, but we also offer a comprehensive service that covers delivery, commissioning, training, and after-sales support with a stock of spare parts to guarantee an immediate response.

Ready to take your production to the next level with the right CNC technology? Contact our team of specialists for a personalized, no-obligation analysis.