The CNC machining process, standing for computer numerical control machining, is a subtractive
manufacturing approach that utilizes a synergy of computerized controls and machine tools to
eliminate layers from a solid block of material. Programming dictates the desired cuts in the metal,
aligning them with specific tools and machinery, and the automated process executes the
machining task accordingly.
Product Details
CNC milling machines excel at cutting a wide range of materials, including aluminum, bronze,
copper, ceramics, plywood, various steel types, stone, wood, zinc, and numerous engineering
materials.
This versatility makes them perfect for crafting prototypes during product development.
With CNC milling, you can easily fine-tune and make precise adjustments until you achieve
the desired final product, offering accuracy and efficiency throughout the manufacturing process.
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. |
ABS | Common thermoplastic, impact resistant, easy to machine. |
Surface Finishes | ||
Name | Applicable to | Machining marks |
As machined | Metals, Plastics | Visible, light surface scratches |
Smooth machining | ||
Fine machining | Metals | Slightly visible |
Polishing | Metals | Removed on primary surfaces |
Bead blasting | Metals | Removed for non-cosmetic, removed on primary surfaces for cosmetic |
Brushing | Metals | |
Anodizing Type II | Aluminum | |
Anodizing Type III | Aluminum | Visible under anodizing |
Black oxide | Copper, Stainless steel, Alloy steel, Tool steel, Mild steel | Visible |
Powder coating | Metals | Removed |
Brushed + electropolishing | Stainless steel | Removed on Primary surfaces |
Specialist Industries
The utility of CNC milling machines extends across the production spectrum, catering to materials
like glass, metal, plastic, wood, and customized components. This precision machining method is
pivotal in generating prototypes and final products for an array of industries, encompassing
aerospace, automotive, hardware startups, manufacturing, medical devices, robotics, and more.
The adaptability of CNC milling machines underscores their significance in modern manufacturing
processes.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. The cost of CNC machining a part is shaped by a variety of factors, including:
1. Material: Material selection introduces cost variations, with materials like aluminum being
more economical to machine compared to others like Inconel, attributed to factors such as tool
wear and cutting speeds.
2. Complexity: Parts featuring intricate designs incur higher machining costs. The complexity
of surface shapes, for instance, significantly influences overall machining expenses.
3. Tolerances: The precision demanded by dimensional tolerances impacts CNC machining costs.
Imposing overly tight tolerances on non-critical features can lead to unnecessary cost escalation.
4. Surface Finish: Achieving mirror finishes demands specialized tools and machining strategies,
extending machining time and, consequently, increasing costs.
5. Quantity: Production volume is a key determinant of costs. Low-volume production tends to be
costlier per part, as initial setup and programming costs are distributed over a smaller production
run.
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. Quality Assurance
Customer trust is a cornerstone of our values, and we are dedicated to upholding it through the
implementation of established quality management principles. Our focus is on enhancing customer
satisfaction and perpetually improving our performance and capabilities.
With a wealth of experience spanning decades, we have consistently met stringent regulations and
maintained PPAP compliance, particularly in the automotive, aerospace, and medical device industries.
These industries serve as benchmarks for the high standards we apply to all the products we
manufacture.