CNC machining, short for computer numerical control machining, is a subtractive manufacturing
technique that utilizes computerized controls and machinery to selectively remove material layers
from a solid block. Precise cuts in the material are orchestrated through programmed instructions,
allowing automated machinery to execute the machining tasks with accuracy and efficiency.
Product Details
The CNC machining process predominantly employs metals as its primary materials.
These metals encompass alloy steel, carbon steel, cast iron, stainless steel, aluminum, copper,
magnesium, and zinc.
Nonetheless, this versatile process can also be applied to machine plastic components and work
with an array of 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. |
ABS | Common thermoplastic, impact resistant, easy to machine. |
Nylon | Excellent mechanical properties, thermal, chemical and abrasion resistant. |
POM | High stiffness, high accuracy, low friction, easy to machine. |
Post-processing and surface finishes for CNC machining
CNC-machined parts as they emerge from the machine often exhibit visible tool marks,
a feature that may not align with your specific part requirements.
Fortunately, there exists a multitude of post-processing techniques aimed at enhancing the
surface appearance and elevating attributes such as wear resistance, corrosion resistance,
and chemical resistance.
Methods like anodizing, bead blasting, and powder coating present viable options for refining
the final presentation of your custom parts, allowing you to achieve the desired surface
quality and performance characteristics.
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
CNC machining stands as a cornerstone in subtractive manufacturing, playing a pivotal role in
numerous industries. Some of the most prominent sectors leveraging CNC machining include:
1. Aerospace: Precision and reliability are non-negotiable in aerospace applications. CNC machining
is crucial for producing intricate and accurate components for aircraft and spacecraft, meeting the
demanding standards of the industry.
2. Automotive: The automotive sector relies heavily on CNC machining for the fabrication of precision
parts, contributing to the efficiency, performance, and safety of vehicles.
3. Aviation: Similar to aerospace, the aviation industry benefits from CNC machining's precision in
crafting components that adhere to strict quality and safety regulations for optimal aircraft
performance.
4. Transportation: Beyond air and land, the transportation industry, encompassing rail and maritime
sectors, integrates CNC machining for the production of robust and precise components that endure
challenging operational conditions.
These industries showcase the versatility of CNC machining, where its capabilities are harnessed to
meet the stringent demands of manufacturing in sectors where precision, durability, and quality are
of utmost importance.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. Can you ensure my designed component dimensions and tolerances are suitable for
production?
Count on our team of experienced professionals to provide robust "Design for Engineering" (DFM)
support, ensuring that your designed component dimensions and tolerances are suitable for
production. We understand the need for quick turnarounds during the idea testing phase and are
committed to providing prompt quotes.
For a detailed overview of the entire order progression, refer to our production process page.
2. What tolerances can achieve?
Tolerances are not universally defined and vary based on factors such as part size, design geometry,
the number and size of features, material selection, surface finish, and the manufacturing process.
After order confirmation, we conduct a comprehensive Design for Manufacturing review to identify
areas for potential modification to enhance manufacturability. It is advantageous if you can specify
critical tolerance areas in your design, allowing for adjustments to optimize production time and costs.
General tolerance guidelines are provided for CNC machining in metal and plastic, plastic injection
molding, CNC metals and plastic injection molding materials, metal 3D printing (+/- 0.5mm), and an
expected shrinkage rate of +/- 0.15% for vacuum casting.
Clear specifications in the 2D drawings are essential for precise adherence to manufacturing and
technical requirements.
3. 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.