CNC machining finds its best application in one-off manufacturing projects and in the low-to-medium
volume production range, spanning from several hundred to 1000 parts.
It stands out as the most economically viable option for the production of metal prototypes,
making it a preferable choice. Furthermore, CNC machining is the ideal selection when the parts in
question require exceptionally tight tolerances.
Product Details
CNC machines are employed across a diverse range of materials, each having its optimal set of
machining parameters (speeds and feeds) for successful processing.
The most prevalent materials include:
1. Metal:
Metal stands out as the most frequently utilized material in CNC machining. CNC machines have
the capability to cut nearly any type of metal, from free-machining brass to high-performance
nickel superalloys like Inconel. Metal machining caters to various applications, ranging from injection
molds to the production of shafts and gears.
2. Plastic:
Although the majority of plastic parts are manufactured through injection molding, CNC machining
finds application in producing specific plastic components. Common materials include ABS
(acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), nylon, and polycarbonate. Plastic machining applications encompass
valve bodies, bushings, and the creation of injection molding prototypes to assess the overall
functionality before investing in costly molding tools.
3. Wood:
CNC routers are predominantly used for wood cutting and are generally more cost-effective than
standard metal-cutting CNC machines. Wood CNC machining is commonly employed for decorative
purposes, with applications such as furniture, window frames, and ornamental panels.
4. Foam:
Polyurethane foam, whether closed or open-cell, is frequently employed in CNC machining applications.
CNC routers can cut foam blocks to create secure packaging for high-value products.
An example is the use of foam in toolboxes to ensure the tools remain secure during transportation.
5. Composites:
CNC machines are regularly employed in processing composite parts. Composites may include
materials like aramid, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, which are highly abrasive to cutting tools.
Aerospace and marine composite components undergo machining for tasks such as adding fastener
holes and general trimming after the molding process.
Common Materials for CNC Machining | |
Material | Properties |
Aluminum | 2024: Good fatigue resistance and strength; excellent toughness at moderate to high strength levels; improved fracture toughness |
6061: Excellent machinability, low cost, and versatility | |
7075: High strength, hardness, low weight, and heat tolerance | |
Brass | Versatile and highly attractive copper/zinc alloy with warm yellow color accommodates severe forming/drawing |
Copper | High ductility and high electrical and thermal conductivity; develops attractive blue-green surface patina over time |
Stainless Steel | Excellent machinability and outstanding uniformity; good workability and weldability, high ductility and formability |
Steel Alloy | Mix of chromium, molybdenum, and manganese yields toughness, good torsional and fatigue strength |
Steel Mild Low Carbon | High machinability and weldability, high stiffness; good mechanical properties, machinability, and weldability at low cost |
Titanium | Excellent strength to weight ratio, used in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries |
ABS | Excellent impact resistance, good mechanical properties, susceptible to solvents |
Nylon | Excellent mechanical properties, high toughness, poor moisture resistance |
POM | High stiffness, excellent thermal & electrical properties, relatively brittle |
CNC Milling Tolerances | ||
Limits for nominal size | Plastics | Metals |
0.5mm* to 3mm | ±0.1mm | ±0.05mm |
Over 3mm to 6mm | ±0.1mm | ±0.05mm |
Over 6mm to 30mm | ±0.2mm | ±0.10mm |
Over 30mm to 120mm | ±0.3mm | ±0.15mm |
Over 120mm to 400mm | ±0.5mm | ±0.20mm |
Over 400mm to 1000mm | ±0.8mm | ±0.30mm |
Over 1000mm to 2000mm | ±1.2mm | ±0.50mm |
Over 2000mm to 4000mm | ±2.0mm | |
*Please clearly indicate tolerances for nominal sizes below 0.5mm on your technical drawing. |
CNC Machining Applications
CNC milling, celebrated for its accuracy, finds widespread use in various industries for creating
intricate designs. Common applications include:
1. Aerospace Components: Precision machining for the production of intricate and high-tolerance
components essential for aerospace applications.
2. Furniture: Crafting precise components for furniture, ranging from functional elements to
aesthetically intricate designs.
3. Medical Components: Manufacturing critical parts for medical equipment, adhering to strict
standards of quality and precision.
4. Prototypes: Rapid prototyping for product development, enabling efficient testing and refinement
of design concepts.
6. Titanium Pieces: Machining titanium components known for their strength and durability, often
used in aerospace, medical, and industrial applications.
7. Woodworking: Precision woodworking to create finely detailed and finished wooden components
for various applications.
The adaptability of CNC milling technology makes it a cornerstone in modern manufacturing, catering
to industries where intricate designs and precision are paramount.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. How do I request a quote?
Requesting a quote from us is designed to be simple and hassle-free. Head over to our "Contact Us"
page and complete the brief web form. We'll inquire about your desired turnaround time, required
quantity, and provide space for a concise project description.
Additionally, you can effortlessly upload your drawing file. If you prefer communication via email,
Whatsapp, or phone, all the necessary contact details are conveniently available on our contact page.
2. What formats of the files can you accept?
We can accept most of the 3D file formats like SolidWorks (.sldprt)/ ProE(.prt) / IGES(.igs) /
STEP (.stp). We can also use 2D drawing (.pdf) or AutoCAD (.dwg) for quote against the parts with
simple structure. All the other files formats are not listed above but can be read in AutoCAD/ProE/
SolidWorks/ will be also fine for us.
3. How can I ensure my design is confidential?
We can sign the NDA (Non-disclosure Agreement) with our customers before quoting or placing
an order.
4. 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.