CNC, an abbreviation for computer numerical control, defines the underlying technology in CNC
machining, a process where machining operations are controlled and directed by a computer.
Through computerized automation, CNC machining enables the swift production of parts with
enhanced speed, accuracy, precision, and the ability to accommodate intricate geometries that
surpass the capabilities of manual machining.
Additionally, CNC machining alleviates the manual labor involved in machining tasks, which would
otherwise be performed by humans. Even though individuals are not directly engaged in physically
machining each part, their involvement is indispensable in the programming and operation of CNC
machines, guaranteeing the successful execution of every operation.
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The primary focus of the CNC machining process revolves around metals, incorporating alloy steel,
carbon steel, cast iron, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, magnesium, and zinc.
Nevertheless, CNC machining extends its capabilities beyond metals to encompass plastic parts
and other materials, including ceramics, composites, thermoplastics, and thermosets.
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. |
POM | High stiffness, high accuracy, low friction, easy to machine. |
ABS | Common thermoplastic, impact resistant, easy to machine. |
Nylon | Excellent mechanical properties, thermal, chemical and abrasion resistant. |
CNC Machining Tolerances
Typical machining tolerances fall within the range of ± 0.005 inches or 0.13 millimeters.
Tolerances represent the allowable variation for a specific dimension.
For instance, if a CNC machining tool has a tolerance of ± 0.01 millimeters, it means that the tool
can deviate by 0.01 millimeters in each cut.
When provided with a drawing, Our CNC machining service can achieve CNC parts with tolerances
as tight as ± 0.0002 inches.
In the absence of a drawing, all CNC parts are manufactured according to our ISO 2768 medium
standard. We can also work to even tighter tolerances, such as ± 0.025 millimeters or ± 0.001
inches, when an engineering drawing specifies critical features.
CNC Turning 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. |
Applications of CNC Turning
Turning, a manufacturing process known for producing rotational, axi-symmetric parts, boasts the
capability to create components with intricate features such as holes, grooves, threads, tapers,
and contoured surfaces.
This method is particularly adept at fashioning limited-quantity items, notably custom-designed
shafts and fasteners used in prototypes. Moreover, turning serves as a valuable secondary process
to enhance or add features to parts manufactured through alternative methods.
Examples of products crafted through turning include camshafts, crankshafts, baseball bats, bowls,
cue sticks, signboards, musical instruments, as well as table and chair legs.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. 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.
2. Why choose CNC machining?
The decision to leverage CNC machining is driven by its attributes of speed, accuracy, and versatility.
This manufacturing solution excels in delivering end-use parts across different volumes with notable
efficiency, eliminating the need for substantial investments in hard tooling or intricate set-ups.
3. Can I use my own material for production?
You have the flexibility to use your own material for production, as long as it meets the requirements
of our machine capabilities.
4. What type of surface finishes does provide?
We provide an extensive selection of finishing services to achieve the 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 various other options. Explore our blog to learn how to specify the
surface texture you want.