CNC Machining Center

CNC machining centers for industrial manufacturing

How a CNC machining center works

A CNC machining center is a state-of-the-art machine tool that automatically performs various machining processes such as milling, drilling, and thread cutting in a single setup. The term "CNC" stands for "computerized numerical control" – i.e., the computer-assisted control of tool movements and machine functions. The machine operates on the basis of pre-created CNC programs that precisely define all machining steps, tool changes, and movement sequences.

CNC machining center

Difference between a CNC machine and a machining center

A machining center differs from a classic CNC milling machine primarily in its higher degree of automation and its ability to perform multi-sided machining. It usually has a tool changer, an automatic pallet changing system, and several axes (usually 3 to 5) that can be used to machine complex geometries in a single operation.

During the machining process, the machine guides the workpiece or tool along predefined paths. The main spindle rotates the tool at high speed, while the feed movements are performed by high-precision servo motors. Machining is carried out with high repeat accuracy and minimal human intervention.

CNC machining center for metal

Typical areas of application for CNC machining centers are mechanical and plant engineering, the automotive industry, mold making, and aerospace. They are ideal for the single-part and series production of complex metal or plastic parts with tight tolerances and high surface quality requirements.

Thanks to their high flexibility, automation, and precision, CNC machining centers are now a central element of modern manufacturing technology and play a key role in Industry 4.0. With the right equipment and programming, a wide variety of workpieces can be manufactured economically and efficiently.

Structure of a CNC machining center

A CNC machining center consists of the machine bed, the main spindle, a tool magazine with automatic tool changer, and a feed system with linear guides and ball screws. In addition, there is a CNC control unit with operating panel, a cooling lubrication system, and a chip conveyor. Depending on the design, additional axes, pallet changers, and measuring systems can be integrated. The machine frame forms a stable base and ensures vibration damping and precision. The modular design allows for individual configurations for different manufacturing requirements.

The axes of a CNC machining center

Depending on the model, CNC machining centers are available with different numbers of axes:

3-axis machining center
4-axis machining center
5-axis machining center
Multi-axis machining center

Search engines often use the spelling "5-axis machining center" etc.

Explanation of the axes using the example of a 5-axis machining center:

The three linear axes (X, Y, Z)

These axes are present on all CNC machines and describe straight-line movements.

X-axis

Movement to the left and right
Horizontal traverse axis, usually transverse to the machine

Y-axis

Forward and backward movement
Perpendicular to the X-axis
Feed of the tool to the workpiece in a horizontal machining center

Z-axis

Upward and downward movement
Feed of the tool to the workpiece in a vertical machining center

The two additional axes of rotation on a 5-axis machining center (A, B, or C)

A 5-axis machine has two additional axes that perform turning movements around the linear axes.

Which two are used depends on the machine type (head-controlled, table-controlled, or hybrid).

Advantage of the 5-axis concept: When machining free-form surfaces, i.e., surfaces curved in any direction in space, the two rotary NC axes enable the tool or the cutting edges to be oriented in space during simultaneous operation (all five axes are moved at the same time) in such a way that the cutting situation is optimized and there is no cutting into the component. In contrast, 3+2-axis machining refers to a situation where the two rotary axes are positioned once and then only the three linear axes X/Y/Z are moved. The big difference lies in the amount of data that the Control has to process and the resulting dynamics of the machining process. Modern 5-axis controls are of course capable of this.

Typical combinations

A-axis: Rotation around the X-axis
B-axis: Rotation around the Y-axis
C-axis: Rotation around the Z-axis

Examples of machine concepts

1. Swivel table (table swivel)

Table has an A-axis and a C-axis
Head often remains "3-axis"
Typical for smaller machining centers

2. Swivel head (head swivel)

Tool head swivels in A-axis and C-axis or B-axis and C-axis
Table is rigid
Advantage: Large workpieces possible, as the table does not have to swivel

3. Hybrid

One rotation axis on the head, one on the table

Types of CNC machining centers

In our online database, we distinguish between the following machine types:

Application in industrial metalworking

CNC machining centers are used in almost all areas of industrial manufacturing. They are particularly common in mechanical engineering, the automotive industry, aerospace, medical technology, toolmaking, and electrical and precision engineering. They are used for both prototypes and series production. Typical workpieces are:

Engine housings
Gear parts
Valve blocks
Turbine blades
Molds and tools
Prosthetic components
Control housings
Bearing plates
Mounting plates
Brackets
Connecting elements

Even complex 3D contours, free-form surfaces, and precise drilling patterns can be efficiently realized. Depending on the equipment, metals such as steel, aluminum, titanium, as well as plastics or composite materials can be machined. The high repeat accuracy and automation make the CNC machining center ideal for demanding manufacturing processes with short cycle times and high flexibility.

Sequential and simultaneous machining

Sequential 5-axis machining (3+2 machining)

The machine aligns the workpiece in two axes, but then mills with only 3 axes.

How does this work?

The machine swivels in the A-axis and/or C-axis to a specific angle.
The machine holds this position.
Milling is performed with X, Y, Z (i.e., like a 3-axis machine, but from a new perspective).

Advantages

Very stable → high accuracy
Simple programming
Ideal for inclined holes, inclined planes, chamfers, pockets

Disadvantages

No complex free-form surfaces
No continuous angle changes during machining

Typical applications

Angled holes
Countersinks/chamfers on multiple sides
3-axis machining without re-clamping, but at multiple angles

Simultaneous 5-axis machining

All five axes can be moved simultaneously and continuously.

How does this work?

X, Y, Z, and A/B/C move parallel and continuously during the milling path.
The tool axis remains optimally aligned with the workpiece.

Advantages

Freely formed 3D surfaces (e.g., turbine blades, mold making)
Better surfaces (as tool inclination is optimized)
Shorter tool length → less vibration
Undercuts and complex geometries possible

Disadvantages

More complex programming (CAM required)
Higher demands on machine and control system
More expensive

Typical applications

Mold and tool making
Aerospace components
Medical technology (implants)
Design parts with organic geometries

Drilling with a CNC machining center

A machining center (BAZ) can perform all standard drilling tasks – and often much more than a simple drilling machine, because the machine offers precise feeds, higher accuracy, and automatic tool changing.

Simple drilling (plunge drilling)

The classic method of manufacturing a cylindrical hole with a twist drill.

Through holes
Blind holes
Centering/drilling (centering drill or NC drill)

2. Reaming (reaming, expanding, fine machining)

For greater dimensional accuracy or surface quality:

Boring with drill cutters
Fine boring
Reaming (IT6–IT8 possible)
Spindling with spindling tools
Typical for particularly precise holes.

3. Thread drilling/thread forming

A machining center can produce threads using either:

Taps (cut threads)
Thread formers/form drills (cold-formed threads – without chips)
Right-hand/left-hand threads
Fine threads

4. Thread milling

Very flexible and safe (no broken taps).

Blind holes
Through holes
Multiple pitches
Milling different thread tolerances – with the same tool

5. Drilling at angles / inclined holes

Possible with 5-axis or 3+2 machining:

Holes in inclined planes
Drilling on curved or complex geometries
Undercut holes with swivel axes

6. Deep hole drilling

With suitable tools and cooling:

Drilling depths > 10×diameter, 20×diameter, or more
Internally cooled drills (IKZ / IKZ≥20–70 bar)
Controlled relief strokes

Ideal for tools, mold making, or energy technology.

7. Countersinking and chamfering

Almost always necessary for drilling:

Flat countersinking
Cone countersinking (e.g., 90°, 120°)
Deburring with a tool or milling cutter
Chamfering at drill hole transitions

8. Combined drilling/milling

A machining center can combine bores with shaping contours, e.g.:

Slotted holes
Wrench sizes
Dowel pins with compensation pockets
Cross holes
Pin holes with milling

9. Special holes

Depending on the machine and tool, special holes can also be produced, e.g.:

Stepped holes
Holes with conical shoulders
Pilot holes
Holes with counterbores on the opposite side (e.g., automotive parts)

Tools for a CNC machining center

A wide range of precision tools are used in CNC machining centers. These include:

Milling cutters, e.g., end mills, ball end mills, face mills
Drilling
Taps
Reamers
Countersinks
Turning tools
Boring tools
Drill heads
Drag tools
Combination tools

Depending on the material and machining process, tools made of carbide, HSS, cermet, or with diamond or CBN coating are used. Many tools have cooling channels for internal tool cooling and are designed for high cutting speeds. They are automatically changed and precisely positioned in the machine's tool magazine.

Accessories and operating materials for a CNC machining center

Various accessories and operating materials are required to operate a CNC machining center: cooling lubricants, tool holders, clamping systems (e.g., zero-point clamping systems, vices, vacuum clamping plates), pallet changers, chip conveyors, and measuring probes for workpiece measurement. Other useful additions include tool presetting devices, cleaning systems, smoke and mist extraction systems, and CNC programming stations for external program creation. Maintenance kits, spare parts, and special software solutions for simulation and process monitoring are also essential for economical and trouble-free operation. Depending on the degree of automation, robots or handling systems can also be integrated.

Leading manufacturers of CNC machining centers

Our manufacturers directory includes companies that produce CNC machining centers for metalworking.

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Selecting the right CNC machining center

If you want to buy a new CNC machining center, there are several important features and specifications to consider. The parameters that you can also use to filter on our website are decisive:

Travel distance in the axes
Number of axes (e.g., 3-, 4-, or 5-axis machining)
Maximum table load
Spindle power and speed

In addition:

The type of tool changer (chain or disc magazine) and its capacity are also important.
Ensure that the machine has a stable construction to prevent vibrations and precise guide and drive technology.
The Control should be intuitive to use and future-proof.
Other crucial aspects include automation options, energy efficiency, service availability, spare parts supply, and adaptability to different workpiece types.
Integrated measurement technology and process monitoring software also play an important role.
Depending on the area of application, the choice between horizontal machining center or vertical machining center is relevant.
A modular machine design facilitates subsequent retrofitting.

Search now on maschinenauswahl.de for the CNC machining center that suits your production requirements.

Special requirements for an aluminum profile machining center

The machining of aluminum profiles (e.g., for window construction, mechanical engineering, automotive, aviation) places special demands on a machining center, as aluminum is a soft, tough, and thermally conductive material that behaves differently than steel.

Checklist: The 10 most important requirements for a machining center for the production of aluminum profiles

1. High spindle speeds and suitable spindle power<7h4>

Aluminum is best machined at high cutting speeds. A high speed produces small chips and prevents material smearing.

Spindle speeds: 12,000–30,000 rpm (depending on tool diameter)
High power in the upper Speed range
Very smooth running (due to thin-walled profiles)

2. Very good chip removal

Aluminum produces long, sticky chips that easily contaminate machines.

Efficient chip conveyors (screw conveyor, belt conveyor)
Powerful coolant or air flushing systems
Optional: minimum quantity lubrication (MQL)
Well-designed protective areas without "pockets"

3. High stability for light, long components

Aluminum profiles are often thin-walled, hollow, and long (3–7 meters or more) and therefore prone to vibration.

Special clamping systems (e.g., pneumatic clamping chucks, movable clamping modules)
Riding supports for long profiles
Profile-specific clamping jaws or vacuum clamping technology
Rigid machine construction despite long travel distances

4. Good heat control

Aluminum conducts heat very quickly, but also deforms easily under heat.

Temperature-stable machine (cooled spindle, axes if necessary)
Precise feed control
Tool geometries that dissipate heat (polishing flutes, large chip spaces)

5. Tools specifically for aluminum

Aluminum requires cutting edges that do not stick.

Tools made of monoblock carbide, with polishing on the cutting edges
Large clearance angles, sharp cutting edges
1–3-flute milling cutters for thin-walled profiles
Carbide drilling drills with special aluminum geometry
If necessary: diamond-coated tools (PCD)

6. Powerful control and 3D capability

Long profiles often have complicated machining operations (grooves, holes, notches) and spatial contours.

4- or 5-axis machining
Collision monitoring
Support for parametric programs
CAM connection

7. Noise and vibration damping

Thin-walled aluminum easily generates resonance.

Low-vibration spindle
Dynamic feed adjustment
Well-balanced machine damping
Optional: adaptive or sensor-based process monitoring

8. Protection against material deposits

Aluminum chips are sticky.

Smooth machine surfaces
Rinsing devices in critical areas
Easy-to-clean protective hoods and guide covers
Separate areas for electronics/axis drives to prevent contamination

9. Loading/material handling for long profiles

Aluminum profiles often come as bar stock.

Roller conveyors or feed systems
Automatic length measurement and positioning
Option to process multiple profile pieces in a single run
Optional sawing units for cutting to length

10. Production environment & corrosion protection

Aluminum produces fine dust and lubricant residues.

Good extraction device (especially during dry milling)
Robust protective covers
Low-corrosion machine parts despite the use of cooling lubricants

Average service life of a machining center

In industry, the typical economic service life of a machining center is 10–15 years (economic service life). This is the period during which the machine remains productive, reliable, and competitive without excessive maintenance costs. Many companies depreciate machines over 7–10 years and replace them after approx. 10–15 years for economic reasons.

Typical reasons for the end of the economic service life:

Spindle and guide wear increase repair costs
Control system is technologically obsolete
Spare parts are difficult to obtain
Energy consumption and cycle times are no longer competitive
Measuring accuracy decreases (thermics, bearings)

However, the machine can continue to run technically if such factors are tolerated. The technical service life of a machining center is therefore usually significantly longer: 15–25 years and more, even 30 years with good maintenance. Much depends on:

Regular maintenance
Quality of the machine (e.g., Deckel, Hermle, DMG vs. low-cost)
Spindle utilization
Load (high volume vs. prototyping)
Machine size (larger machines are often more durable)

Service life depending on type of use

High-performance production (3 shifts)

7–12 years economically
12–18 years technically

Normal production (1–2 shifts)

10–15 years economically
15–25 years technically

Workshop / prototypes / training

15+ years without problems
Many machines > 25 years in use

Information about CNC machining centers (CNC BAZ)

This article answers the following questions, among others, and helps with the search terms mentioned:

Difference between CNC machine and machining center
Machining center structure
Machining center axes
Machining center drilling

Search now on machineselection.com for the machine tool that suits your production requirements.

CNC Machining Center