Machine vs Machine Tool – Functions and Classification of Machine Tool

2023.3.9

Machine and machine tool are two terms used in mechanical engineering, what’s the difference between them? Focusing on the machine tool, we’ll get into its classification and functions.

Difference Between Machine And Machine Tool

A machine is any device that uses power to perform a specific task. This can include everything from simple tools like hammers and screwdrivers to more complex devices like computers and automobiles. The machine includes a wide variety of machinery.

 

A machine tool, on the other hand, is a type of machine that is specifically designed for shaping or machining materials such as metal, wood, or plastic. Examples of machine tools include lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and grinders. Machine tools are typically used in manufacturing and production environments to create precision parts and components for a variety of products. Machine tools must be non-portable and power-driven, also should use a cutting tool and be able to perform more than one machining process. 

 

In summary, while all machine tools are machines, not all machines are machine tools. Machine tools are specific types of machines that are designed for machining or shaping materials.

What are the Main Functions of A Machine Tool

– Shaping or Cutting Material: The primary function of a machine tool is to shape or cut materials such as metal, wood, or plastic into specific shapes or dimensions. This is achieved through the use of cutting tools like drills, saws, milling cutters, and grinding wheels.

– Precision Machining: Machine tools are designed to produce precise and accurate parts with tight tolerances. This is achieved through the use of specialized tools and techniques such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) programming, which enables the machine tool to execute complex operations with a high degree of accuracy.

– Repetitive Operations: Machine tools are often used to perform repetitive operations such as drilling, cutting, and milling. This helps to reduce production time and increase efficiency in manufacturing processes. Many machine tools are designed to perform multiple operations, making them versatile and adaptable to different manufacturing processes. For example, a lathe can be used for turning, facing, and drilling operations.

– Automation: Many machine tools are equipped with automation features that enable them to operate without human intervention. This includes features like automatic tool changers, robotic loaders, and conveyors. Automation helps to reduce labor costs, increase efficiency, and improve safety in manufacturing processes.

How Do You Classify Machine Tools

Machine tools can be classified based on various factors, such as their function, construction, operation, and application. Here are some of the common classifications of machine tools:

– Based on Function: Machine tools can be classified based on their function, such as shaping, drilling, milling, grinding, and cutting. Each type of machine tool is designed to perform a specific function or operation.

– Based on Construction: Machine tools can be classified based on their construction, such as bed type, column type, and knee type. This classification is based on the structural design of the machine tool and the arrangement of its components.

– Based on Operation: Machine tools can be classified based on their mode of operation, such as manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic. This classification is based on the level of human intervention required to operate the machine tool.

– Based on Application: Machine tools can be classified based on their application, such as metalworking, woodworking, and plastic processing. This classification is based on the type of material that the machine tool is designed to work with.

– Based on Control: Machine tools can be classified based on their control systems, such as conventional, numerical control (NC), and computer numerical control (CNC). This classification is based on the type of control system used to operate the machine tool.

What are CNC Machine Tools

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine tools are a type of machine tool that is controlled by a computer program. The computer program controls the movements of the machine tool and the cutting tool, enabling precise and accurate machining operations to be performed. CNC machine tools are used in a variety of manufacturing processes, such as metalworking, woodworking, and plastic processing. They can perform a wide range of operations, including cutting, drilling, milling, turning, and grinding. CNC machine tools can be designed to operate in a variety of ways, such as vertical machining centers, horizontal machining centers, lathes, and routers. The use of CNC technology in machine tools offers several advantages over conventional machine tools. 

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