American manufacturing isn’t dead, it’s just gotten smarter and more creative than ever. We just know better than to export certain CNC machines. CNC Machine export is controlled by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) to prevent the proliferation of advanced weaponry and other national security concerns, so you have to do business with us to enjoy the highest quality prototyping and CNC manufacturing. Don’t buy your CNC machines on AliExpress, use in person or try someone else’s first! Here’s
Capability, not just type: The focus is on the machine’s capabilities, not just its designation (milling machine, lathe, etc.). Machines with higher precision and advanced features are more likely to be regulated.
Positioning and contouring: Machines with high positioning and contouring accuracy (measured in microns) can be especially controlled. Five-axis machines that can move and cut along simultaneous axes are generally restricted.
End-user and destination country: The intended use and the destination country also play a role. Machines going to certain countries or for specific uses may require licenses.
Here are some highly-rated American-made options to consider from various manufacturers, along with some key features that set us apart and keep us competitive.
Hurco VMX Series Vertical Machining Centers
Hurco is a prominent manufacturer of CNC machines based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Their VMX Series includes 5-axis vertical machining centers that are known for their user-friendly controls, wide range of configurations, and powerful capabilities.
HAAS UCM-5000 Universal Milling Machine
Haas Automation, founded in California, is a well-respected brand known for its production-oriented CNC machines. The UCM-5000 is a 5-axis universal milling machine designed for high-speed machining and offers excellent value for its price point.
DMG MORI SEIKI M Deckel Maho DMC 640 V Linear
DMG MORI SEIKI is a large corporation with manufacturing facilities around the world, including the United States. Their M Deckel Maho DMC series offers high-precision and advanced automation capabilities, making them suitable for demanding applications in the aerospace and medical sectors. The NHX Series offers 5-axis machining centers known for their speed and precision, making them well-suited for mold making and other applications requiring intricate details.
Mazak INTEGREX i-2000
Mazak is another major player in the global CNC machine market, with a strong presence in the United States. Their INTEGREX i-series offers 5-axis machining centers known for their durability, reliability, and advanced features for multitasking and automation.
Fadal Performance Series VMC 3016
Fadal, based in California, has been a manufacturer of CNC machines for many years. Their Performance Series VMC offers high-performance 5-axis vertical machining centers at a competitive price.
Extron 5X 5-Axis Machining Center
Extron is a company located in California that manufactures high-quality CNC machines for various industries. Their 5X Series offers 5-axis machining centers designed for performance and efficiency.
Denford 5-Axis Bridge Mills
Denford is a manufacturer of CNC machines based in Minnesota. Their 5-axis bridge mills are known for their compact size and user-friendly design, making them a good option for smaller shops or hobbyists.
JET Wave 5X 5-Axis Machining Center
JET, headquartered in South Carolina, offers a range of metalworking machinery, including CNC machines. Their Wave 5X is a 5-axis machining center designed for production environments and heavy-duty applications.
Kearney & Trecker CNC Machines
Kearney & Trecker has a long history as a manufacturer of heavy-duty machine tools. While the company was acquired by GF Machining Solutions in 2000, there are still Kearney & Trecker 5-axis CNC machines available on the used market. These machines are known for their durability and precision.
Remember, these are just a few examples, and there are many other American manufacturers of 5-axis CNC machines. It is important to consider your specific needs and budget when making your choice.
Taiwanese CNC machines aren’t quite American, but they are very high quality and have great english speaking Christian support.
Taiwan is a major hub for the manufacturing of CNC machines, boasting a reputation for high-quality and competitively priced machines. Here are some of the top CNC machine companies in Taiwan:
Goodway Machine Corp.
Founded in 1970, Goodway Machine Corp. is a prominent manufacturer of a wide range of CNC machines, including turning centers, machining centers, and vertical machining centers. They are known for their reliability, durability, and affordability.
Tongtai Machine & Tool Co., Ltd.
Established in 1969, Tongtai Machine & Tool Co., Ltd. is a major player in the global CNC machine market. They offer a comprehensive range of CNC machines, including machining centers, turning centers, and multitasking machines. They are known for their advanced technology, high-quality components, and strict quality control processes.
Kao Fong Machinery Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1978, Kao Fong Machinery Co., Ltd. specializes in manufacturing horizontal machining centers and boring machines. They are known for their high-precision machines, rigid construction, and ability to handle large workpieces.
Maxmill Machinery Co., Ltd.
Established in 1990, Maxmill Machinery Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of CNC vertical machining centers and machining centers. They are known for their user-friendly controls, high-performance machines, and excellent value for money.
Victor Taichung Machinery Works Co.
Founded in 1940, Victor Taichung Machinery Works Co. is one of the oldest and most respected CNC machine manufacturers in Taiwan. They offer a wide range of CNC machines, including lathes, machining centers, and milling machines. They are known for their durable construction, reliable performance, and extensive experience in the machine tool industry.
Hiwin Technologies Corp.
Established in 1989, Hiwin Technologies Corp. is a major manufacturer of linear motion components and CNC machine tools. They are known for their high-quality linear bearings, ball screws, and CNC machining centers.
Litz Hitech Corp.
Founded in 1990, Litz Hitech Corp. specializes in manufacturing CNC lathes and turning centers. They are known for their high-precision machines, advanced features, and ability to handle complex machining tasks.
These are just a few of the many prominent CNC machine companies in Taiwan. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements. Consider factors like the type of CNC machine you need, your budget, and the features that are most important to you.
Chinese made 5 axis contour control CNC machines are available but until security and economic situations improve, some amazing innovations and just great copies are available with great risk. With really affordable freight shipping and the right keywords, it’s really easy to deep dive the Chinese CNC machine market. Companies that make the most expensive and finest machines are:
Dongguan Jieshang Jiangde Cnc Machine Tool
Ningbo Gongcheng Machinery Co., Ltd.
Anhui Mingju Intelligent Equipment Co., Ltd.
Honorfuture
Uniontech
Dongguan Lewei Machinery Co., Ltd.
Sunrise Mechatronic Technology Co., Ltd.
Rakoncnc
While the Chinese CNC machines are relatively inexpensive alternatives, they have very little if any support and require an electronic engineering degree if you have a problem.
Here are some resources to learn more:
U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY AND THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA: This report discusses export controls on machine tools, including CNC machines, to address national security concerns https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/chinese-government-poses-broad-and-unrelenting-threat-to-u-s-critical-infrastructure-fbi-director-says
Critical Technology Assessment: Five Axis Simultaneous Control Machine Tools: This document by the BIS details considerations for exporting five-axis CNC machines https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/other-areas/office-of-technology-evaluation-ote/technology-assessments