CNC machining stands as the prevailing subtractive manufacturing method today, offering
remarkable versatility and reliability in crafting bespoke metal and plastic components.
Leveraging CAD models, CNC machines meticulously eliminate material from solid blocks
using a diverse range of cutting tools.
In essence, CNC machining yields parts with precise tolerances and exceptional material
characteristics. It finds applicability in individual projects and low-to-medium volume
production (up to 10000 parts), owing to its superior repeatability.
Nonetheless, it imposes more design constraints compared to 3D printing, largely due to its
subtractive nature.
Product Details
Common Materials | |
Name | Description |
Aluminum | High machinability and ductility, good strength-to-weight ratio. |
Stainless steel | High tensile strength, corrosion and temperature resistant. |
Mild steel | High machinability and weldability, high stiffness. |
Brass | Low friction, excellent electrical conductivity, golden appearance. |
Copper | Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. |
Titanium | Excellent strength to weight ratio, used in aerospace, automotive and medical industries. |
ABS | Common thermoplastic, impact resistant, easy to machine. |
Nylon | Excellent mechanical properties, thermal, chemical and abrasion resistant. |
PVC | Excellent chemical and weather resistance and good toughness. |
Surface Finishes | ||
Name | Applicable to | Machining marks |
As machined | Metals, Plastics | Visible, light surface scratches |
Smooth machining | ||
Fine machining | Metals | Slightly visible |
Polishing | Metals | Removed on primary surfaces |
Bead blasting | Metals | Removed for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Brushing | Metals | |
Anodizing Type II | Aluminum | |
Anodizing Type III | Aluminum | Visible under anodizing |
Black oxide | Copper, Stainless steel, Alloy steel, Tool steel, Mild steel | Visible |
Powder coating | Metals | Removed |
Brushed + electropolishing | Stainless steel | Removed on Primary surfaces |
Specialist Industries
The utilization of CNC machining spans a multitude of industries, with a significant presence in
aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, robotics, and agriculture, particularly in the
production of metal components.
Beyond these, CNC machining is integral to the manufacturing processes of medical devices,
household goods, and various consumer applications. Its prevalence extends into sectors such as
energy, oil and gas, making CNC machining one of the most pervasive and essential manufacturing
techniques globally.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. How does compare to other suppliers on price?
While direct comparisons can be challenging, generally, We offers prices that are typically 25-45%
lower for plastic injection mold tools and CNC machined/turned parts when compared to suppliers
in North America and Europe.
2. How quickly can I get my parts?
We can produce quality parts in as little as two weeks if complete 2D and 3D CAD models are
provided. However, more intricate parts with special features may require additional time.
For more precise lead times based on your project, request a quote.
Regarding shipping, the majority of our shipments are via air freight, taking only a few days from
China to Europe or North America.
3. What tolerances can achieve?
Determining tolerances involves various factors, and there isn't a universal set that applies to all
processes and materials. The final tolerances on your part depend on factors such as part size,
design geometry, the number and size of features, material properties, surface finish, and the
chosen manufacturing process.
Upon order confirmation, we conduct a Design for Manufacturing review, highlighting areas that
may need modification for improved manufacturability. It is beneficial if you can specify critical
tolerance areas in your design, allowing for potential modifications to reduce production time and
costs. We provide general tolerance guidelines for CNC machining in metal and plastic, plastic
injection molding, CNC metals and plastic injection molding materials, metal 3D printing (+/- 0.5mm),
and the expected shrinkage rate of +/- 0.15% for vacuum casting.
All manufacturing and technical specifications must be clearly outlined in the 2D drawings for
accurate adherence.
4. What type of surface finishes does provide?
We provide an extensive range of finishing services to achieve virtually any desired look and feel
for your parts. Our offerings include treatments for metal, texturing for plastic injection mold tools,
painting for both metal and plastic, and a variety of other options. Learn more about specifying the
surface texture you desire in our blog.