CNC machining, standing for computer numerical control machining, is a prevalent manufacturing
process that employs automated, high-speed cutting tools to shape designs from metal or plastic
stock. Standard CNC machines encompass 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling machines, lathes,
and routers.
Variations exist in how CNC parts are cut, with possibilities such as the workpiece remaining
stationary while the tool moves, the tool staying in place while the workpiece is rotated and moved,
or both the cutting tool and workpiece moving together.
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Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, making it suitable for situations
where a part may be exposed to the elements for a long period of time. Stainless steel is also
fairly malleable and ductile.
Common Stainless Steel Materials | |
No. | Properties |
Stainless steel 304/304L | Stainless steel 304L (CNC) has excellent mechanical properties and good machinability. Resistant to most environments and corrosive media. |
Stainless steel 316/316L | Stainless steel 316L (CNC) has similar mechanical properties to 304, with higher corrosion and chemical resistance. Ideal for marine applications. |
Stainless steel 303 | Stainless steel 303 (CNC) has excellent toughness, but lower corrosion resistance than 304. Ideal for high volumes, due to its excellent machinability. |
Stainless Steel 17-4 PH | Stainless steel 17-4 (CNC) - SAE grade 630 - is a precipitation hardening alloy with good corrosion resistance. Can be hardened up to 44 HRC. |
Stainless steel 416 | Stainless steel 416 is magnetic and has a high machinability. |
Stainless steel 2205 Duplex | Stainless steel 2205 Duplex (CNC) is the alloy with the highest strength and hardness. Suitable for applications in severe environments up to 300°C. |
Stainless steel 420 | Stainless steel 420 provides high strength and corrosion resistance. It is the hardest of all stainless steels when hardened. |
Stainless steel 440C | Stainless steel 440C has improved toughness and corrosion resistance due to Carbon and Chromium content. |
Stainless steel 430 | Stainless steel 430 is magnetic and corrosion resistant. |
Stainless steel 301 | Stainless steel 301 is corrosion resistant similar to Stainless steel 304. |
Stainless steel 15-5 | Stainless steel 15-5 has a higher toughness than 17-4, better corrosion resistance and transverse properties compared to other similar martensitic grades. |
Stainless Steel Finishing and Post-Processing
The finish of stainless steel can vary significantly depending on the surface roughness.
However, it is typically described as shinier compared to unfinished aluminum alloys,
and it tends to have a slightly darker and more silver color.
Stainless steel offers flexibility in achieving various surface finishes, including options such as
media blasting, sanding, hand-polishing, and powder coating.
These processes can be employed to achieve a wide range of surface finish textures and
appearances.
Name | Machining Marks |
Brushed + electropolishing | Removed on Primary surfaces |
Electroless nickel plating | Reduced but visible |
As machined | Visible, light surface scratches |
Smooth machining | Visible, light surface scratches |
Fine machining | Slightly visible |
Polishing | Removed on primary surfaces |
Bead blasting | Removed for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Brushing | Reduced for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Powder coating | Removed |
Black oxide | Visible |
CNC Machining Applications
CNC milling machines find extensive application in the contemporary manufacturing landscape,
shaping materials ranging from glass and metal to plastic, wood, and custom-designed components.
Machinists proficient in CNC machining are instrumental in fabricating prototypes and end products
for diverse sectors like aerospace, automotive, hardware startups, manufacturing, medical devices,
robotics, and other burgeoning industries. The precision and versatility of CNC milling machines
contribute significantly to the evolution of manufacturing technologies.
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FAQ's
1. What are standard machining tolerances?
Standard machining tolerances are set at ± 0.005" or 0.13mm, delineating the acceptable range
for dimensions. For example, if a CNC machining tool carries a tolerance of ± 0.01 mm, it signifies
a permissible deviation of 0.01 mm in each cutting operation. Leveraging a provided drawing, our
CNC machining service can attain part tolerances as precise as ± 0.0002 in.
In cases where no drawing is available, all CNC parts adhere to our ISO 2768 medium standard.
Projects requiring even tighter tolerances, such as ±0.025mm or ±0.001", can be accommodated
with an engineering drawing specifying critical features.
2. Why choose CNC machining?
The choice of CNC machining is characterized by its speed, precision, and versatility.
This manufacturing solution distinguishes itself by efficiently producing end-use parts across various
volumes, all without the necessity for significant investments in hard tooling or elaborate set-ups.
3. How long does delivery time and quotation take?
The delivery time for parts is intricately tied to their complexity. Low-complexity parts usually have
a lead time of 2-3 days, while moderate complexity extends to 2-5 days. High-complexity parts
may necessitate a lead time ranging between 5 and 15 days.
Quoting time is also linked to design complexity, ranging from 1 business day or faster for simpler
designs to 3+ business days for more intricate ones. If you have a design that requires assessment
and quoting, do not hesitate to contact our team.
4. What are the advantages of CNC machining?
CNC machining offers a spectrum of advantages, prominently featuring rapid prototyping and the
expedited production of full-scale parts. Its hallmark is the ability to achieve exceptional precision
and accuracy in manufacturing, catering to tight tolerances for CNC parts of diverse sizes.
This method stands out for its flexibility, influencing factors such as volume, pricing, lead times,
and the array of materials and finishes available.