CNC machining operates on subtractive processes, where the feedstock is machined to its final
form through the removal of material. This includes activities such as drilling holes, boring lots
and pathways, and shaping metal stock into new material with varying tapers, diameters, and
shapes.
In contrast to additive manufacturing methods that involve the addition, layering, and deformation
of materials to achieve a specified shape, CNC machining achieves shapes by subtracting material.
This distinction also separates it from injection molding, where material is injected in a different
state of matter using a mold and formed to a specified shape.
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The turning process primarily involves the machining of various metals.
These metals encompass a wide range of materials, including alloy steel, carbon steel, cast iron,
stainless steel, aluminum, copper, magnesium, and zinc.
Nevertheless, it is essential to note that the turning process is not limited to metals alone;
it can also be applied to plastic components and a diverse array of materials such as ceramics,
composites, thermoplastics, and thermosetting materials.
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
CNC machining, being a versatile subtractive manufacturing process, finds extensive application
across a multitude of industries.
Some of the key sectors that heavily rely on CNC machining include:
1. Aerospace: Precision is paramount in aerospace, and CNC machining is instrumental in crafting
intricate components for aircraft and spacecraft, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
2. Automotive: The automotive industry utilizes CNC machining for the production of precise and
complex parts, ranging from engine components to intricate systems, contributing to the efficiency
and reliability of vehicles.
3. Aviation: Similar to aerospace, the aviation industry benefits significantly from CNC machining,
ensuring the manufacturing of high-precision components for aircraft to meet stringent safety and
performance standards.
4. Transportation: Beyond aerospace and automotive, the broader transportation sector, including
rail and maritime industries, relies on CNC machining for the fabrication of critical components that
withstand rigorous operational demands.
These industries highlight just a few examples of CNC machining's widespread utilization.
The technology's ability to deliver accuracy, consistency, and intricate detailing makes it
indispensable in various integral sectors, ensuring the production of high-quality components that
meet the stringent standards of modern manufacturing.
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FAQ's
1. What's the general surface texture of CNC milled and turned parts?
In the realm of CNC machining, milled parts typically display a surface roughness of approximately
3.2μm (or 1.6μm for newer machines). In contrast, turned parts exhibit a finer surface texture with
a roughness of 0.8μm. Importantly, this finer surface finish in turning is achieved without the need
for adjusting machining speeds.
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. Can I use my own material for production?
You are welcome to use your own material for production, provided it is compatible with the
capabilities of our machines.
4. How do I know my design will be kept confidential?
Your design's confidentiality is paramount to us. We are willing to sign and strictly adhere to any
non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement. Moreover, our factory has a stringent policy against
taking photographs of a customer's product without explicit permission.
Our reputation is founded on years of experience working with a multitude of unique designs,
and we have never allowed any proprietary information to be disclosed to third parties.