CNC (computer numerical controlled) machining is a widely used manufacturing process that uses automated, high-speed cutting tools to form designs from metal or plastic stock. Standard CNC machines include 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling machines, lathes, and routers. Machines may vary in how parts are cut—the workpiece may remain in place while the tool moves, the tool may remain in place while the workpiece is rotated and moved, or both the cutting tool and workpiece may move together.
Skilled machinists operate CNC machines by programming tool paths based on the geometry of the final part. The part geometry information is provided by a CAD (computer-aided design) model. CNC machines can cut almost any metal alloy and rigid plastic with high precision and repeatability, making CNC machined parts suitable for nearly every industry, including aerospace, medical, robotics, electronics, and industrial.
CNC Services: Machining, Turning, and Milling
CNC Turning
CNC lathes allow us to get high-speed turning of both plastics and metals from bar or block material. The turning process allows the production of complex external and internal geometries, including generating all kinds of threads. For any round shaped components, for example, shafts, worms, spheres, CNC turning is a more efficient method compared with CNC milling.
CNC Milling
Compared with CNC turning, CNC milling, especially 5 axis milling can be used to create complex 3D shapes or to apply a machined surface or features to parts made both plastics and metals. The advantage of multi-axis milling machines makes CNC milling process versatile, as well as accurate and repeatable, for creating many different types of part features of complex geometries. Example include holes, curves, slots, angled shapes, and channels. Milling is also ideal for making tooling for pressure die casting and plastic injection molding.
How does CNC machining differ from traditional machining?
In traditional machining, a skilled machinist operates a machine, removing or forming metal. This is done according to specifications provided by designers and engineers, usually through an engineering drawing or blueprint. They use turn wheels, dials, switches, chucks, vices, and a variety of cutting tools made of hardened steel, carbide, and industrial diamond, then use measurement instruments to ensure all of the dimensions are correct.
CNC machining performs the same function as traditional machining — metal cutting, drilling, milling, boring, grinding, and other metal forming and removal functions — but it uses computer numerical control rather than manual control by a machinist. It is automated, driven by code, and developed by programmers. It is about as precise the first time of cutting as the 1000th. Widely used in digital manufacturing (and sometimes in low-volume production runs), it can be revised and altered for modifications and different materials.
This type of machining is much more precise and has superseded traditional machining (though not entirely) in manufacturing, fabrication, and industrial production. It uses mathematical coordinates and computing power to achieve the same end with the greatest accuracy. Specifically, computer numerical control uses Cartesian coordinates. These are spatial coordinates — in several dimensions — using coordinates and axes. The automation of cutting tool machines controls its cutting, boring, drilling, or other operation using the numerical control of a computer that reads the coordinates. These coordinates were designated by engineers
Advantages Of Precision CNC Machining
- Fast and repeatable for low volume manufacturing
- CNC prototypes deliver on precise and high tolerance specifications
- Wide range of production and rapid prototype manufacturing materials
- Rapid machining offers great surface finishing
Custom Components for Any Industry
CNC machining is your solution for industry-specific parts made to your project’s exact needs. Worldwide innovation begins with a creative design, which is perfectly suited to the CAD and CNC machining process.
When searching for a machining company to execute your custom ideas, partner with machinists who will bring your unique designs to life. CNC Services China is proud to offer customized CNC machining services. Whether you’re interested in materials for your design or in collaborating with us from the beginning of your project, we’re your single source for all the processes involved in manufacturing the parts you need.
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