CNC machining can interchangeably refer to CNC controlled mills, lathes, or drills. Complex CNC machines use multiple cutting heads, and tool changers are referred to as machining centers because they may perform all three operations as independent or simultaneous operations. The benefits of CNC machining include producing parts to tight tolerances required by the operating environment, streamlining a multiple step manufacturing process, and reducing production lead-times.
Alloy, carbon, and stainless bars are the most common metals used in machining. Higher value metals such as titanium and nickel may also be machined, though the applications are more niched.