A CNC Mill is a computer-operated machine which uses rotary cutters to shape materials into a creator's desired shape. These materials are usually wood or metal. The software used to direct and control the CNC Mill is known as "Pathpilot". However other programs and software such as Fusion360 may be used to create the "directions" for the CNC Mill to follow in order to create your desired part.
The CNC Mill in our school's Innovation Lab is a Tormach 440.
So far, I've learned that the Tormach 440 CNC Mill is able to cut through steel, has different blades, and uses toolpaths to cut the stock.
What would I create?
If I were to use the CNC Mill to create something, I would want to make a small wooden box and a lid to go with it. This box would be ideal for small pieces of jewelry such as rings and earrings.
The box would look something like this, however it would be made out of one single block of wood instead of several pieces attached together.
Summary.
In the end, I have learned that CNC Mills are very useful and adaptable machines. They are able to be used with a wide range of materials and complete tasks that would take a large amount of time and effort to complete efficiently and neatly.