- CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC milling machines have been around since the early 1970s. Before the 1970s and the introduction of the computer, the machines were called NC, or Numerical Control. CNC machines make precise cuts to various types of materials based on computer coordinates and calculations. The machines have many different cutting tools for use with the CNC machine. CNC machines are used in almost all aspects of manufacturing.
- Plasma cutters are common metalworking instruments that are capable of cutting through several types of metal in a singular pass. These tools come in various thickness cutting options. The cutters have the appearance and caliber of a wire-feed welder. The plasma flame is a powerful, energized stream of ionized gas that's also the limiting component for the precision process. The plasma cutters are widely used in the heavy fabrication industry.
- Plasma is recognized as the fourth state of matter. When cutting, the plasma is produced as air is combined with the arc from an electrode. The air becomes plasma when it's relayed past the electrode. This forms the arc flame of ionized gas, which is extremely hot and can reach up to 9,000 degrees C. The result of the process makes narrow cuts that don't require a great deal of final surface finishing.
- Plasma cutting was first created to cut metals without the presence of iron in them. Today, plasma cutting can be done on metals with and without the presence of iron. Along with the cutting of different metals, plasma can be used for precision piece work and helping shape different metals. The plasma cutter can mark bend lines on different metals so another machine can perform the bend.