Which type of CNC machine is commonly used for cutting in metal fabrication?

In metal fabrication, a CNC plasma cutter is specifically designed for cutting metal sheets and other materials with high precision and speed. This type of machine utilizes a plasma beam that reaches extremely high temperatures, enabling it to cut through conductive metals such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper.

Plasma cutting is advantageous due to its efficiency and versatility; it can handle various thicknesses of materials and allows for intricate designs and shapes to be cut accurately. The ability to operate at high speeds while maintaining quality edges makes the CNC plasma cutter a preferred choice in the metal fabrication industry.

The other types of CNC machines mentioned serve different purposes. A CNC milling machine is utilized for machining parts to achieve various shapes and dimensions through rotating cutting tools, which is less focused specifically on cutting sheets. A CNC grinding machine is intended for finishing operations, smoothing out surfaces or removing material to very precise tolerances but is not primarily used for initial cutting. Lastly, a CNC lathe is designed for shaping materials by rotating them against a cutting tool, suitable for cylindrical objects rather than flat sheets.