SendCutSend Education

Lesson 1.1

What is CNC Milling?

This series was filmed and edited by Keaton Bowlby

Welcome to Chapter One of CNC SendCutSend Education! In this first lesson, we’re laying the groundwork for CNC machining by getting familiar with the machine itself and the language machinists use every day.

We’ll walk through the anatomy of a CNC machine, breaking down key components like the spindle, collets, end mills, and the auto tool changer, and how they work together to remove material and create parts. From there, we’ll look at how parts are held using a vise and multi axis setups, and how probes help the machine understand tool position and part location in space. We’ll also cover the control panel, operator controls, and essential safety features that keep everything running smoothly.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • The core components of a CNC machine and what they do
  • How tools and material interact to remove material
  • How parts are positioned using multi axis setups
  • The role of probes in locating tools and parts
  • Basic machine controls and key safety features

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