CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, which is a manufacturing process that automates the control, movement, and precision of machine tools through the use of pre-programmed computer software. CNC machines are motorized maneuverable tools and platforms that are both controlled by a computer, according to specific input instructions. The process can be used to control a range of complex machinery, from grinders and lathes to mills and CNC routers. CNC machining makes it possible to pre-program the speed and position of machine tool functions and run them via software in repetitive, predictable cycles, all with little involvement from human operators.
In the CNC machining process, a 2D or 3D CAD drawing is conceived, which is then translated to computer code for the CNC system to execute. The program can be written by a person or, far more often, generated by graphical computer-aided design (CAD) or computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. CNC-like systems are used for any process that can be described as movements and operations, including laser cutting, welding, friction stir welding, ultrasonic welding, flame and plasma cutting, bending, spinning, hole-punching, pinning, gluing, fabric cutting, sewing, tape and fiber placement, routing, picking and placing, and sawing.
