CNC machining, an abbreviation for Computer Numerical Control machining, operates as a
subtractive manufacturing technology, autonomously removing material from raw stock guided
by computer-generated instructions. Generally, CNC machines can be classified into two types:
those that keep the raw stock stationary while rotating the cutting tool, and those that rotate
the raw stock while moving it against a stationary tool.
Various modifications and combinations of these fundamental approaches are employed,
allowing some machines to integrate both techniques for the production of intricate parts with
complex features.
Product Details
CNC machining materials are generally grouped into three primary categories:
plastics, soft metals, and hard metals. This classification includes materials such as aluminum,
bronze, copper, ceramics, plywood, steel, stone, wood, zinc, and various others.
Preference is often given to materials that are considered easy to work with and possess
advantageous properties compared to alternative options.
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 machines play a crucial role in the manufacturing process across various industries.
These advanced machines are employed for crafting products from an array of materials, including
glass, metal, plastic, wood, and specialized components. Skilled machinists utilize CNC machining
to create prototypes and final products for diverse sectors such as aerospace, automotive,
hardware startups, manufacturing, medical devices, robotics, and beyond.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. What are the advantages of CNC machining?
The advantages of CNC machining are prominent, with rapid prototyping and efficient full-scale
production at the forefront. A distinguishing feature is its capacity for high precision and accuracy
in manufacturing, extending to tight tolerance machining for CNC parts spanning various sizes.
Beyond this, CNC machining offers unmatched flexibility in addressing volume needs, pricing
considerations, lead times, and the utilization of a broad spectrum of materials and finishes.
2. What size of fillets are added when no specific fillet is specified by the 3D model
or drawing?
In cases where no specific fillet radius is specified in the 3D model or drawing, fillet radii will be
added by the machinist based on their judgment to enhance machining ease.
To ensure a desired fillet radius, specific details should be provided. For a general understanding,
internal vertical edge radii might surpass 1/3 of the depth, and internal horizontal edges may
either be maintained sharp or incorporate a radius within the range of 0.5mm to 1mm.
3. What industries do you typically work in? Who are your typical customers?
Virtually no industry is unfamiliar to us! Our customers hail from various sectors, encompassing
heavy equipment manufacturing, general commercial enterprises, and entities in industrial,
transportation, medical, and consumer realms, among others.
While our clientele spans the globe, reaching the United States, Europe, and beyond, they all
share a common need for impeccably machined parts, adhering to specifications, delivered
promptly, and meeting budgetary considerations.
4. Can you ensure my designed component dimensions and tolerances are suitable for
production?
Rely on our team of experts to offer valuable "Design for Engineering" (DFM) support, assessing
the suitability of your designed component dimensions and tolerances for production.
We acknowledge the urgency during idea testing and strive to provide rapid turnaround on quotes.
For a comprehensive understanding of the order progression, explore our production process page.