Which CNC machine should you choose?

There are several factors to consider when investing in a CNC machine. In particular, you should consider what needs the machine is intended to meet, how the rest of the production workflow is structured, and, of course, what type of material the machine will be machining.

If you’d like a quick overview of the machines available for working with plastic, metal, wood, stone, and composite materials, we’ve compiled a list of some of our best-selling machines for each of these materials.

Plastic
Tracer

• Maximum vacuum power, because the vacuum is concentrated in the area of the work table that is in use. This makes the machine ideal for machining small parts or highly porous materials.
• On average, a work cycle is 9% faster than that of similar machines. And tool changes take less than 15 seconds.
• The workbench, where you can load and unload workpieces, is fully accessible from all sides. The workshop is, of course, enclosed, so the machining process itself still takes place under safe conditions.

Technical Specifications

• Engine power:

• 3–4 axes: 15 kW
• 4 axes: 13.4 kW

• Rotational speed: 2,400 rpm
• Number of tools on the tool changer: 38/53

Stone
Brembana Speed

• 3/4 interpolating axes.
• Can process both sheets and blocks of varying thicknesses.
• The robust design absorbs the stresses of machining, ensuring that the machine does not lose precision over time.
• Up to 120 tools can be installed, so the machine doesn't need new equipment every time.

Technical Specifications

• X-axis travel: 2,800–3,800 mm
• Y-axis travel: 1,650–7,200 mm
• Z-axis travel: 350–900 mm
• Rotation axis: 360 degrees, continuously adjustable

Wood
Balestrini Power

• A compact design that still delivers power, flexibility, and productivity.
• The workbenches are designed for maximum modularity, allowing the machine to be customized to meet your production needs.
• The workbench allows for optimal securing of workpieces using suction cups, for example.
• With the five-axis machining head, all tools are always accessible.

Technical Specifications

• X-axis travel: 3,000–4,000–5,000 mm
• Y-axis travel: 1,800–2,550–3,550 mm
• Z-axis travel: 700–1,000 mm
• X-Y-Z axis speed: 90–90–60 m/min

Composite
Ares

• Offers large work areas and a wide selection of electric spindles.
• The work areas can operate as a single zone or in a shuttle cycle.
• The machine features effective dust management with advanced dust collection and extraction systems.
• An ultrasonic cutting unit can be added for optimal machining.

Technical Specifications

• X-axis travel: 3,600–6,000 mm
• Y-axis travel: 1,800–2,600 mm
• Z-axis travel: 1,200–1,200 mm

Metal
Brembana Aquatec (waterjet)

• 3- and 5-axis hydroabrasive waterjet cutting system.
• The steel supports on the side of the machine provide structural rigidity, ensuring high performance even during demanding tasks.
• The movements are performed by a frame driven by brushless motors.
• All moving parts are protected against water and dirt.

Technical Specifications

• X-axis: 3,000–3,800 mm
• Y-axis: 2,650–6,650 mm
• Z-axis: 650 mm
• B-axis: ±60°
• C-axis: infinite

No one is better than anyone else

It’s important to remember that all CNC machines operate quickly and efficiently and produce a high-quality end product. Therefore, no machine is inherently better than another. However, there are, of course, machines that are a better fit for your business.

There are also typically several models of the same machine, each with its own unique features and technical specifications.

The CNC machine will always be programmed to suit your machining method and the final product it is intended to produce. Gibotech, of course, handles the programming, and we also provide training for the operator.