Metalworking machines shape and cut metal with high accuracy and production levels. They include lathes, milling machines, planers, grinders, and embossing machines. CNC software controls most machines, including metal brakes, extrusion, and casting equipment.
Metalworking machines include a wide variety of equipment used to cut and shape metal. These machines offer an alternative to hand shaping these metals, resulting in higher accuracy and higher production levels. They can be found in many metalworking shops, manufacturing and industrial plants around the world, as well as in hobbyist homes. Metalworking machines come in many forms, including lathes, milling machines, and planers. This equipment also includes the basic tools used to modify the surface or finish of the metal, including grinders, polishing equipment, and embossing machines.
Lathes are one of the most widely used types of metalworking machines. These devices rotate a metal object around a spindle. As it rotates, the tools and cutting bits shape or cut the metal into the desired shape. These machines can range from small table top units to large floor standing models. While some can be operated manually, most rely on computer programming using computer numerical control (CNC) software.
The milling machine can be thought of as a more advanced version of the lathe. This metalworking machinery holds an object in place while the worktable moves around it. Unlike the lathe, milling machines can change metal in three dimensions, not just two. Micro routers can also be used to cut and shape objects invisible to the naked eye. Like a lathe, milling equipment generally relies on CNC software for precise control and programming.
A metal plane can be used to cut or shave metal in a single linear direction. These machines hold the metal object in place, then slide a cutting blade across the surface to smooth or flatten the material. Planes can also be used to cut grooves or other shapes into the surface of a product.
Metalworking machines may also include equipment used to bend and shape sheet metal. For example, a metal brake creates creases or folds in sheet steel and other metals. Similar machines are used to stamp or emboss patterns into metal or to roll it. These machines can be manually operated or controlled via a CNC system depending on where they are used.
Extrusion and casting equipment are other types of metalworking machines. In casting, workers make a mold of an object and use it to shape the molten metal. Extrusion involves forcing hot metal through a die. The shape of the mold determines the shape and profile of the final product.
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