CNC machining excels in producing customized components, especially those with intricate
geometries and high precision requirements. While it demonstrates excellent performance in
single tasks and low-to-medium volume manufacturing (up to 1,000 parts) with its commendable
repeatability, it does come with more design limitations when compared to 3D printing, thanks in
part to its subtractive manufacturing principles.
Product Details
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 machinery plays a pivotal role in multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive parts
manufacturing, medical machine manufacturing, transportation, defense, marine, oil and gas,
and electronics.
Across these sectors, CNC machining has emerged as a catalyst for efficiency, enabling the mass
production of tailored CNC parts. The technology's impact ranges from crafting intricate
components for aerospace applications to ensuring precision in medical device manufacturing,
showcasing the versatility and significance of CNC machinery in modern industrial processes.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. How much does CNC machining cost?
The cost of CNC machining is determined by factors such as complexity, quantity, and lead time.
To obtain a precise cost estimate, we encourage you to submit a 3D CAD model, enabling us to
provide an interactive quote accompanied by design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback.
Our use of proprietary software and automated fixturing processes eliminates upfront non-recurring
engineering (NRE) costs, making CNC machining a cost-effective choice for quantities as low as 1
to 200 parts. While prices may be comparable or slightly higher than 3D printing, CNC machining
delivers superior material properties and surface finishes.
2. What are your tolerances for machined parts?
Our machined parts adhere to precision standards, featuring +.005”/- .005” local tolerances across
most metal geometries and +/- 0.010" for plastics. It's worth noting that tolerances may vary for
larger parts, especially with considerations for flatness post heat treatment.
An "As Milled" finish for CNC parts requires a minimum surface finish of 125. Fabricated parts
maintain a 0.010” dimensional tolerance and a 1° angular tolerance. Tapped holes not explicitly
labeled as features in the CAD model may be machined based on the specified diameters.
Crucially, surface treatments such as anodizing, bead blasting, iriditing, powder coating, etc.,
will only be applied upon explicit payment and acknowledgment.
3. How quickly can I get my parts?
For quality parts, a turnaround time of as little as two weeks is possible when complete 2D and 3D
CAD models are provided. Parts with more complexity or special features may take longer.
To obtain precise lead times for your project, request a quote.
In terms of shipping, the majority of our shipments use air freight, ensuring delivery within a few
days from China to Europe or North America.