Machine Tools

Machine tools are devices or machines used to shape, cut, grind, drill, or otherwise modify materials, typically metal, wood, or plastic, to create finished products or components.

For a more in-depth overview, and a look into their uses, see our guide to machine tools.

Fabrication machines encompass a wide range of equipment used in various manufacturing and construction processes. They are used to cut, shape, bend, weld, and assemble raw materials into finished products or components, examples include:

• Laser cutting machines
• CNC (computer numerical control)
• Press brake
• Welding machine
• Roll forming machine
• Plasma cutting machine

CNC machine tools, or Computer Numerical Control machine tools, are a type of automated machinery used in manufacturing and machining processes.

These machines are controlled by computer programs to execute precise and complex machining operations with high accuracy and efficiency. CNC machine tools have revolutionised the manufacturing industry by allowing for greater automation, flexibility, and repeatability in the production of parts and components.

Machining and fabrication are both processes used in manufacturing to create parts and components, but they involve different methods and techniques.

Some key differences include:

• Machining refers to the process of shaping a workpiece by removing material using cutting tools.
• Fabrication involves the assembly, joining, bending, cutting, and shaping of materials to create a finished product or structure.
• Machining involves operations such as milling, turning, drilling, grinding, and electrical discharge machining (EDM).
• Fabrication encompasses a broader range of processes than machining and may include welding, bending, cutting, punching, shearing, and forming.
• Examples of machined parts include engine components, gears, shafts, molds, and precision tooling.
• Examples of fabricated products include metal enclosures, frames, structures, piping systems, and architectural elements.

Machine tools play a critical role in the manufacturing process, enabling the production of intricate and precise components used in a wide range of products. They are used to shape, cut, grind, drill, or otherwise modify materials such as metal, wood, or plastic, creating finished products or components.

Machine tool technology refers to the field of engineering and manufacturing that involves the design, development, operation, and maintenance of machine tools.

It covers a broad range of disciplines, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and materials science, and it plays a crucial role in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and construction.