Definition of: CNC Milling

CNC Milling is the most common form of CNC (Computer Numerical Control). CNC milling performs the functions of drilling as well as turning. CNC mills are categorized according to the number of axes.

Axes are labeled as x and y for horizontal movement, and z for vertical movement. A standard manual light-duty mill is typically assumed to have four axes:

1) Table x

2) Table y

3) Table z

4) Milling Head z

CNC Milling Machines

The number of axes of a milling machine is often interpreted in varying ways. A five-axis CNC milling machine has an extra axis in the form of a horizontal pivot for the milling head. This allows extra flexibility for machining with the end mill at an angle with respect to the table. A six-axis CNC milling machine would have another horizontal pivot for the milling head, this time perpendicular to the fifth axis.

CNC milling machines are traditionally programmed using a set of commands known as G-codes. G-codes represent specific CNC functions in alphanumeric format.