CNC Machine Tools: Types, Materials, and Applications

When it comes to CNC machining, the quality of your tools determines everything — accuracy, finish, speed, and even cost. Many shops struggle with tool wear, poor surface finishes, and wasted material because they’re using the wrong cutting or non-cutting tools. Choosing the right CNC machining tools helps you achieve precise cuts, extend tool life, and lower production costs.

• Tip: Always match the tool type and material to your workpiece — using the wrong combination can drastically shorten tool life and affect dimensional accuracy.

 

CNC machining tools are specialized instruments used to cut, shape, and finish materials in automated CNC machines. They include cutting tools like end mills, drills, and reamers, as well as non-cutting tools such as tool holders and jigs. Selecting the right tool type and material ensures precision, efficiency, and long tool life.

 

Now that you understand what CNC machining tools are, let’s explore their main types, materials, and applications. Knowing how each tool works — and when to use it — helps you make smarter choices for your CNC machining projects.

• Note: Explore our CNC Machining Services page to learn how professional tool selection improves machining precision and efficiency.

 

 

 

What Are CNC Machining Tools?

 

CNC machining tools are precision instruments designed to cut, shape, or support workpieces in automated CNC systems. These tools perform various operations — such as milling, drilling, turning, or boring — with high accuracy and repeatability. They come in many types and materials, each optimized for specific machining applications.

 

CNC machining tools serve as the interface between your CNC machine and the workpiece. They remove or shape material according to programmed tool paths. These tools can be divided into two broad categories:

• Cutting tools, such as end mills, drills, taps, and reamers, which remove material.
• Non-cutting tools, like tool holders, jigs, probes, and coolant nozzles, which position, secure, or maintain the cutting process.

Each tool must be chosen based on the material being machined — for example, using carbide CNC tools for stainless steel or HSS cutting tools for softer metals. The right selection improves tool life and reduces costs.

• Note: Poor tool selection increases wear and causes vibration, affecting precision and part quality. Always verify tool geometry and coating before setup.

 

 

 

The Role of CNC Tools in Automation and Precision

 

CNC machining tools are the backbone of automation and precision manufacturing. They translate digital commands into accurate physical actions, allowing your CNC machine to perform complex cuts and shapes with minimal human intervention. Whether you’re producing simple components or high-tolerance aerospace parts, tool performance determines accuracy, surface finish, and repeatability.

 

High-quality CNC cutting tools ensure each pass removes material consistently, while non-cutting tools like holders and probes maintain tool alignment and calibration. This synergy between machine control and tool design is what enables modern CNC machining to achieve micron-level precision.

 

Automation also depends heavily on tool setup and maintenance. Proper tool calibration, balanced toolholders, and consistent wear monitoring reduce downtime and prevent costly part rework. In automated production, even a slightly worn tool can lead to thousands of defective components.

• Tip: Establish a regular inspection schedule for your CNC tools — consistent tool maintenance helps extend tool life and maintain machining precision across large production runs.

 

 

Why Is Tool Selection Critical in CNC Machining?

 

Tool selection directly affects every outcome in CNC machining — from part accuracy and surface finish to tool life and machining cost. Choosing the wrong tool can lead to excessive wear, vibration, poor dimensional control, and even part failure. The right tool, on the other hand, ensures smoother operation, consistent results, and higher productivity.

 

Each material and machining operation demands a specific tool geometry, coating, and hardness. For example, carbide CNC tools are ideal for cutting hard metals like stainless steel and titanium, while HSS cutting tools work best for softer materials such as aluminum and brass. Selecting the wrong combination can cause chattering, tool breakage, or overheating.

 

Tool selection also determines cutting speed and feed rate. Tools with the correct geometry and coating — such as TiAlN or DLC — can withstand high temperatures and extend machining life. Additionally, proper tool matching reduces energy consumption and minimizes machine load, improving efficiency over time.

• Note: Always evaluate your material type, machining method, and surface finish requirements before selecting a CNC tool. Using a tool designed for your specific operation ensures better accuracy and cost control.

 

 

 

CNC Machines vs. CNC Tools: What’s the Difference?

 

 

CNC machines and CNC tools work together but serve different purposes. The CNC machine provides motion and control. The CNC tools perform the actual cutting, shaping, or measuring tasks.

The machine includes components like spindles, drives, and controllers that move the tool according to programmed coordinates. The tool, such as an end mill or drill, removes material to create the desired geometry.

 

Without precision tools, even the best CNC machine can’t achieve tight tolerances or fine finishes. Likewise, advanced tools are useless without accurate machine motion. Both must work in harmony for high-quality parts.

• Tip: When troubleshooting accuracy issues, check both the machine’s calibration and the tool’s condition — most problems stem from one of these two areas.

 

 

Major Categories of CNC Machining Tools

 

CNC machining involves several distinct processes, each requiring specialized tools for different operations. The main categories include CNC milling, CNC turning (lathe machining), CNC drilling, grinding, and cutting. Each process demands specific tool geometry, materials, and coatings to achieve the required precision and surface finish.

• Tip: Always identify your machining process before selecting tools — using a turning tool in a milling setup, for example, can lead to poor performance and tool failure.

 

 

 

Cutting Tools

 

Cutting tools remove material from the workpiece to form the desired shape or surface. These tools must be harder than the material being cut and maintain sharpness under high temperatures and pressure.

 

Common types include:

• End Mills: For contouring, slotting, and face milling operations.
• Drills: For creating round holes in metals, plastics, or composites.
• Reamers: For finishing holes to precise dimensions and smooth surfaces.
• Taps and Thread Mills: For producing internal or external threads.

Each cutting tool is selected based on the operation, workpiece material, and required finish. Carbide CNC tools are best for hard metals, while HSS cutting tools suit softer alloys or low-volume production.

 

Note: Monitor tool wear regularly. Dull or chipped tools can cause surface defects and increase machining costs.

 

 

Non-Cutting Tools

 

Non-cutting tools support or control the machining process. They don’t remove material but ensure stability, precision, and repeatability during operation.

Common non-cutting tools include:

• Toolholders: Secure cutting tools in the spindle or turret.
• Jigs and Clamps: Hold the workpiece firmly in place to prevent vibration.
• Probes: Measure and verify tool or workpiece positions.
• Coolant Nozzles: Deliver cutting fluids to reduce heat and extend tool life.
• Tool Setters: Automatically measure tool length and diameter for precise offsets.

These components play a critical role in maintaining machining accuracy and reducing setup time.

 

Tip: Regularly check non-cutting tools for alignment and wear — small misalignments can lead to costly dimensional errors across large production runs.

 

 

Common Types of CNC Machine Tools

 

CNC machines use a wide range of tools to handle different operations. Each tool is designed for a specific function — from rough material removal to fine surface finishing. Understanding these tools helps you choose the right one for precision, efficiency, and cost control.

• Tip: Select tools based on operation type, material hardness, and desired surface finish — mismatched tools can reduce accuracy and increase wear.

 

End Mills

• Definition: End mills are cutting tools used in CNC milling to remove material by moving laterally or vertically across a workpiece.
  
• Use Cases: Ideal for contouring, slotting, profiling, and face milling in metals and plastics.
  
• Variety: Available in flat, ball-nose, and corner-radius styles; made from HSS, carbide, or coated materials for longer life.

Note: Use carbide end mills for hard materials like stainless steel to prevent tool deflection and extend lifespan.

 

 

 

Drills

• Definition: Drills are rotary cutting tools used to create round holes.
  
• Use Cases: Common in hole-making operations for fasteners, pins, or fittings.
  
• Variety: Includes twist drills, center drills, and step drills in HSS or carbide.

Tip: Match drill point angle and coating (e.g., TiN or TiAlN) to the material for faster drilling and smoother finishes.

 

 

Reamers

• Definition: Reamers enlarge or finish pre-drilled holes to tight tolerances.
  
• Use Cases: Used for precision holes requiring accurate diameters and smooth surfaces.
  
• Variety: Straight or helical fluted; solid or adjustable types for different materials.

Note: Use low speeds and steady feed to avoid chatter and maintain dimensional accuracy.

 

Tap and Thread Mills

• Definition: These tools create internal or external threads.
  
• Use Cases: Essential for threaded holes in metal and plastic parts.
  
• Variety: Includes hand taps, spiral taps, and solid carbide thread mills.

Tip: Thread mills are preferred for hard materials and small threads due to better control and less tool breakage.

 

 

 

Face Mills

• Definition: Face mills are designed for machining large flat surfaces.
  
• Use Cases: Used in milling operations to achieve smooth finishes and high material removal rates.
  
• Variety: Available with replaceable carbide inserts for longer service life.

Note: Ensure proper tool diameter and insert grade for your material to avoid surface inconsistencies.

 

 

 

Square End Mills

• Definition: Square end mills have flat cutting ends that produce sharp-edged slots and pockets.
  
• Use Cases: Used for side milling, slotting, and contouring operations.
  
• Variety: Offered in 2-, 3-, or 4-flute designs depending on chip removal needs.

Tip: Use fewer flutes for softer materials to prevent chip clogging.

 

 

Radius End Mills

• Definition: Also known as ball-nose mills, these tools have rounded ends.
  
• Use Cases: Ideal for 3D contouring, mold, and die work.
  
• Variety: Available in full-radius or corner-radius forms.

Note: Use smaller step-overs when finishing to achieve smoother surfaces on curved geometries.

 

 

Turning Tools (Lathe Tools)

• Definition: Used in CNC lathes to remove material from rotating workpieces.
  
• Use Cases: Suitable for facing, grooving, threading, and profiling.
  
• Variety: Includes carbide inserts, boring tools, and parting tools.

Tip: Choose the correct insert shape (e.g., CNMG or VNMG) for specific cutting angles and finishes.

 

 

Boring Bars

• Definition: Boring bars enlarge or refine internal diameters.
  
• Use Cases: Used in turning operations for precision hole sizing.
  
• Variety: Available in solid or modular styles with replaceable carbide inserts.

Note: Minimize tool overhang to reduce vibration and maintain accuracy.

 

 

Cut-Off Tools

• Definition: Cut-off tools separate finished parts from stock.
  
• Use Cases: Common in lathe machining for parting operations.
  
• Variety: Blade-type or insert-type designs for different materials.

Tip: Ensure correct feed rate and coolant flow to prevent tool overheating and edge wear.

 

 

Knurling Tools

• Definition: Used to create textured patterns on cylindrical surfaces.
  
• Use Cases: Provide grip surfaces on handles and fasteners.
  
• Variety: Available in straight, diagonal, or diamond patterns.

Note: Maintain proper pressure and alignment to prevent tool or part damage.

 

 

 

Chamfer Mills

• Definition: Chamfer mills create beveled edges on parts.
  
• Use Cases: Used for deburring, countersinking, or edge preparation.
  
• Variety: Available in single- or multi-flute carbide designs.

Tip: Adjust the chamfer angle precisely to match design specifications.

 

 

 

Keyway Mills

• Definition: Keyway mills cut key slots for shafts and hubs.
  
• Use Cases: Essential for mechanical assemblies requiring torque transmission.
  
• Variety: Includes side-cutting and end-cutting types.

Note: Use rigid setups to avoid deflection during deep keyway cutting.

 

 

Slitting Saws

• Definition: Thin circular saws used for cutting narrow slots or separating workpieces.
  
• Use Cases: Common for small part separation or groove cutting.
  
• Variety: Available in HSS or carbide, with various tooth configurations.

Tip: Apply consistent coolant to reduce heat buildup and prevent blade warping.

 

 

Fly Cutters

• Definition: Single-point tools for machining large, flat surfaces.
  
• Use Cases: Provide smooth finishes on aluminum and mild steel.
  
• Variety: Adjustable-head or fixed designs with replaceable inserts.

Note: Use slower spindle speeds for wide cuts to avoid chatter.

 

 

External Radius Mills

• Definition: Designed to cut rounded edges on external part surfaces.
  
• Use Cases: Improve aesthetics and reduce stress concentrations.
  
• Variety: Available in multiple radii sizes and coatings.

Tip: Use coated carbide versions for hard materials to improve surface quality.

 

 

Engraving Tools

• Definition: Used for marking, lettering, or fine detailing.
  
• Use Cases: Common in branding, serial marking, and mold engraving.
  
• Variety: Includes V-tip, ball-end, and diamond-point tools.

Note: Adjust depth precisely to avoid over-engraving or damaging delicate parts.

 

 

Countersinking Tools

• Definition: Create conical holes for flush-fitting fasteners.
  
• Use Cases: Used before screw or bolt installation.
  
• Variety: Single- or multi-flute tools available in HSS or carbide.

Tip: Match countersink angle (usually 82° or 90°) to the fastener head.

 

 

Dovetail Tools

• Definition: Dovetail tools cut angled slots for mating components.
  
• Use Cases: Common in slide assemblies and molds.
  
• Variety: Available in various included angles and coatings.

Note: Use rigid setups and consistent feed to prevent chatter during deep cuts.

 

Table: Common Types of CNC Machine Tools

 

 

• Tip: Use this table as a quick reference when planning your CNC operations. Matching the right tool type to your process ensures accuracy, reduces wear, and extends tool life.

 

 

How Do CNC Machining Tools Work?

CNC machining tools work by removing material from a workpiece through controlled, automated movements guided by a computer program (G-code). The machine interprets the G-code and moves the cutting tool along multiple axes (X, Y, Z, and sometimes more) to achieve the desired shape and dimensions.

 

The process involves three key elements:

• Toolpath Programming – CAD/CAM software generates the toolpath, defining how the tool interacts with the workpiece.
• Tool Motion Control – The CNC controller sends signals to motors and drives that position the tool with high precision.
• Material Removal – The cutting edge of the tool engages the workpiece, removing material in layers or passes until the final geometry is reached.

Cutting parameters such as spindle speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and coolant application are optimized based on material type and tool geometry.

This precise coordination of motion, speed, and cutting pressure allows CNC tools to produce parts with tight tolerances, repeatability, and consistent surface finish, making them ideal for both prototyping and mass production.

 

 

 

Common CNC Machining Tool Materials

 

 

The performance and durability of CNC machining tools largely depend on the materials and coatings used in their construction. Each material offers distinct advantages in hardness, heat resistance, and wear life, influencing cutting efficiency and surface finish quality.

 

 

1. Carbon Steel

 

Carbon steel tools are the most basic type, used for light-duty machining. They are inexpensive and easy to sharpen but lose hardness above 200°C. They are suitable only for soft materials such as wood, plastic, and aluminum.

• Overview: Basic tool material used for light-duty machining.
• Advantages: Low cost, easy to sharpen.
• Limitations: Loses hardness at high temperatures; suitable for soft materials like wood or plastics.

 

 

2. High-Speed Steel (HSS)

 

HSS tools combine toughness and moderate heat resistance, maintaining hardness up to about 600°C. They are versatile, affordable, and ideal for general-purpose cutting, drilling, and tapping. However, they wear faster than carbide tools at high speeds.

• Overview: A popular tool material combining toughness and reasonable heat resistance.
• Advantages: Good balance of strength and cost; ideal for general-purpose machining.
• Applications: Commonly used in drills, taps, and end mills.

 

 

3. Carbide

 

Carbide tools are made from tungsten carbide and cobalt binders. They offer superior hardness, heat resistance, and wear performance, allowing higher cutting speeds and longer life. They are used for machining hard metals, stainless steels, and high-volume production.

• Overview: Made from tungsten carbide particles bonded with cobalt.
• Advantages: Excellent hardness and wear resistance; suitable for high-speed cutting.
• Applications: Used for cutting hard metals and achieving fine surface finishes.

 

 

4. Ceramics

 

Ceramic tools, typically made from aluminum oxide or silicon nitride, resist heat extremely well and maintain hardness at high temperatures. They are best for high-speed finishing of cast iron and hardened steels but are brittle and unsuitable for interrupted cuts.

• Overview: Composed of aluminum oxide or silicon nitride.
• Advantages: Exceptional hardness and heat resistance; performs well in dry cutting.
• Limitations: Brittle; not suitable for heavy interrupted cuts.

 

5. Cermets (Ceramic + Metal)

 

Cermet tools combine ceramic hardness with metal toughness. They provide excellent wear and oxidation resistance and deliver fine surface finishes. They are often used for finishing operations on steels and cast irons where stability and precision are important.

• Overview: Combines ceramic hardness with metallic toughness.
• Advantages: High wear and oxidation resistance with smoother surface finishes.
• Applications: Ideal for finishing operations on steel and cast iron.

 

 

6. Diamond-Tipped Tools

 

Diamond tools, either natural or synthetic, are the hardest available. They provide unmatched wear resistance and produce mirror-like finishes. However, they are unsuitable for ferrous metals, as diamond reacts with iron at high temperatures. Commonly used for aluminum, copper, and composites.

• Overview: Use natural or synthetic diamond edges.
• Advantages: Extremely hard and wear-resistant; superior surface finish.
• Applications: Best for non-ferrous metals, composites, and plastics.

 

 

7. Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN)

 

CBN tools are nearly as hard as diamond but can cut ferrous metals effectively. They excel in machining hardened steels, tool steels, and cast irons, offering excellent thermal stability and long tool life in finishing operations.

• Overview: Second only to diamond in hardness.
• Advantages: Excellent for cutting hardened steels and superalloys.
• Applications: Used in finishing hardened tool steels and cast irons.

 

 

8. Polycrystalline Diamond (PCD)

 

PCD tools consist of multiple diamond particles sintered together. They offer outstanding durability, low friction, and minimal wear. PCD is ideal for high-speed cutting of non-ferrous metals, plastics, and composite materials where surface finish is critical.

• Overview: Made from sintered diamond particles.
• Advantages: Long tool life, minimal wear, and superior finish quality.
• Applications: Commonly used in aluminum, copper, and composite machining.

 

 

Table: Common Tool Materials in CNC Machining

 

 

 

 

Common CNC Machining Tool Coatings

 

 

Tool coatings improve hardness, reduce friction, resist wear, and extend CNC tool life. They also allow higher cutting speeds, better surface finishes, and greater heat resistance, making them critical for precision machining.

 

 

1. Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating

 

TiN is a gold-colored coating that increases hardness and reduces friction. It improves wear resistance and allows higher cutting speeds on steels and aluminum. Ideal for general-purpose milling, drilling, and turning.

 

 

2. Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN) Coating

 

TiCN is harder than TiN and offers lower friction. It performs well on stainless steel, cast iron, and hardened alloys, reducing tool wear in demanding cutting operations.

 

 

3. Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) Coating

 

TiAlN provides excellent heat resistance and oxidation protection. It is ideal for high-speed cutting of steels, stainless steels, and titanium alloys, maintaining hardness at elevated temperatures.

 

 

4. Extreme-Life Titanium Nitride (Al-TiN) Coating

 

Al-TiN offers superior hardness and thermal stability compared with standard TiN. It extends tool life in abrasive and high-speed machining applications.

 

 

5. Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Coating

 

DLC reduces friction and prevents material adhesion, improving tool life when cutting aluminum, plastics, and composites. It is not suitable for ferrous metals due to chemical reactions at high temperatures.

 

 

6. Titanium Aluminum Nitride (AlTiN) Coating

 

AlTiN is similar to TiAlN but optimized for extreme heat conditions. It is widely used in dry machining and high-speed steel or carbide cutting of hard metals.

 

 

7. Zirconium Nitride (ZrN) Coating

 

ZrN offers good hardness, wear resistance, and low friction. It is suitable for non-ferrous metals, plastics, and abrasive materials, providing a smooth surface finish.

 

 

8. Chromium Nitride (CrN) Coating

 

CrN increases corrosion resistance and hardness while reducing friction. It is commonly applied in mold-making and machining of abrasive or coated materials.

• Tip: Choosing the correct coating depends on material type, cutting speed, and operation. Properly coated tools can dramatically extend tool life and improve machining efficiency.

 

Table: Common Tool Coatings in CNC Machining

 

 

• Tip: For long tool life and consistent quality, match tool material and coating to your workpiece material and cutting speed. Using the wrong combination can lead to faster wear and higher machining costs.

 

 

How to Choose the Right CNC Tool?

 

 

Choosing the right CNC tool directly affects part quality, cycle time, and cost. You want a tool that matches your material, operation, and tolerance — not the cheapest one. Pick tools that reduce machining time, resist wear, and simplify setup so you hit targets consistently.

• Tip: Start by defining the part material, finish requirement, and production volume — those three answers narrow tool choices fast.

 

Consider the Material You're Cutting

 

Different materials wear tools differently. Hard steels and titanium need carbide or CBN; aluminum runs best with PCD or polished carbide to avoid built-up edge; plastics and composites favor DLC-coated or diamond tools. Factor hardness, abrasiveness, and thermal conductivity when choosing tool material and geometry.

• Note: Choosing a tool material that suits your workpiece reduces rework and extends CNC machining tool life.

 

Match the Tool to the Operation

 

Pick tools built for the operation: end mills for profiling and slotting, face mills for large-area surfacing, boring bars for internal diameters, and taps/thread mills for threads. For roughing, use tools with larger radii and more aggressive chip evacuation; for finishing, use small-step, high-precision tools. Consider toolholder rigidity and spindle power — they limit what a tool can do.

• Tip: For mixed batches, standardize on a small set of versatile precision CNC tools to simplify inventory and setups.

 

Check the Tool Coating

 

Coatings control heat, friction, and adhesion. Use TiAlN/AlTiN for high-temperature steel cuts, TiCN for abrasive stainless, TiN for general-purpose, and DLC/PCD for sticky, non-ferrous materials. Coatings can double or triple tool life but pick coatings that match cutting speed and coolant strategy (wet vs dry).

• Note: Wrong coatings increase adhesion and wear — match coating to both material and cutting conditions.

 

Consider Form and Tolerances

 

Tool geometry (flute count, helix angle, corner radius) affects surface finish, chip flow, and accuracy. Use fewer flutes and larger gullets for better chip clearance in soft alloys; use higher flute counts for hard materials and finer finishes. For tight tolerances, minimize tool overhang, use shrink-fit or hydraulic toolholders, and prefer rigid tool geometries to cut vibration and runout.

• Tip: Always verify CNC machining tool geometry against your drawing tolerances before the first part run.

 

 

Conclusion

 

CNC machining tools are the backbone of precision manufacturing. Choosing the right tool involves understanding the workpiece material, operation type, tool material, coating, and geometry. Proper selection ensures high accuracy, extended tool life, and efficient production. Both cutting and non-cutting tools play critical roles in achieving repeatable results. By carefully matching tools to materials and operations, you can reduce costs, improve surface finish, and maintain consistent quality in CNC machining parts.

• Tip: Regular tool maintenance, correct setup, and using the appropriate coatings and materials will maximize the performance of your CNC tools and your machining factory’s productivity.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

1. What is a CNC Machine Tool?

A CNC machine tool is a powered device controlled by a computer that moves cutting or forming tools along programmed paths to shape materials into precise parts. It combines a machine, controller, and tool to achieve repeatable and accurate machining.

 

 

2. What Materials Cannot Be CNC Machined?

Extremely brittle materials like some glass types, certain ceramics without support, and very soft sticky materials that cannot be held or cut reliably may be unsuitable. Some composite materials may also require specialized tools.

 

 

3. What Tools Are Used in CNC Milling?

End mills, face mills, square and radius end mills, chamfer mills, keyway mills, slitting saws, fly cutters, and specialized engraving tools are commonly used in milling.

 

 

4. What Tools Are Used in CNC Turning (Lathes)?

Turning tools include carbide inserts, boring bars, parting/cut-off tools, threading tools, knurling tools, and chamfering tools for shaping rotating workpieces.

 

 

5. What Tools Are Used in CNC Cutting?

Cutting operations may use end mills, drills, reamers, taps, thread mills, slitting saws, and fly cutters depending on material removal type.

 

 

6. What Tools Are Used in CNC Drilling?

Twist drills, center drills, step drills, and carbide or HSS drill bits are used to create precise holes.

 

 

7. What Tools Are Used in CNC Routing?

Routers typically use straight, spiral, or V-bit router bits for plastics, wood, composites, and soft metals.

 

 

8. What Tools Are Used in CNC Grinding?

Grinding wheels, cup wheels, mounted points, and specialized abrasive tools are used to finish surfaces or achieve tight tolerances.

 

 

9. What Tools Are Used in CNC Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)?

EDM uses electrodes made of graphite, copper, or copper-tungsten alloys to erode material via electrical sparks.

 

 

10. What Tools Are Used in CNC Laser Cutting?

High-powered lasers themselves act as the cutting tool; assist gases and optics guide the beam to cut or engrave metals, plastics, or composites.

 

 

11. What Tools Are Used in CNC Plasma Cutting?

Plasma torches are used to cut electrically conductive metals by generating a high-temperature plasma arc.

 

 

12. What Tools Are Used in CNC Water Jet Cutting?

Water jet nozzles with abrasive slurry are used to cut metals, composites, glass, and stone without heat-affected zones.

 

 

13. What Tools Are Used in CNC Broaching?

Broaching tools or broach bars with sequential cutting teeth are used to machine internal or external profiles like keyways and splines.

 

 

14. What Tools Are Used in CNC Gear Hobbing?

Hobs are rotating cutting tools shaped like a gear that cut gear teeth incrementally into workpieces.

 

 

15. What Tools Are Used in CNC Swiss Machining?

Swiss-style lathes use turning tools, drills, taps, and specialized micro-milling tools for small, precise parts.

 

 

16. What Tools Are Used in CNC Electrochemical Machining (ECM)?

Electrodes made of copper or brass are used; the process removes metal via electrochemical dissolution rather than mechanical cutting.

• Tip: Always match the tool to the specific CNC process and material for maximum accuracy, longer tool life, and reduced production costs.