When it comes to machining metal, facing is a common operation that involves creating a smooth, flat surface on a workpiece. To accomplish this, a specialized tool called a facing machine is often used. However, there are other machines that can perform a similar function and may be considered synonyms for facing machines. These include lathe machines, milling machines, and planers. Lathe machines rotate the workpiece while a cutting tool removes material to create a flat surface. Milling machines use multiple cutting tools to achieve precision cuts and a flat surface. Planers are large machines that use a cutting tool to remove material from the surface of a workpiece in a linear motion.