CNC machining, distinct from traditional machining, accomplishes the same metal cutting, drilling,
milling, boring, grinding, and other metal forming and removal functions, but with the key difference
of utilizing computer numerical control instead of manual operation by a skilled machinist.
Traditional machining involves a manual approach where a machinist operates the machine, removing
or forming metal based on specifications from designers and engineers.
This process employs various tools such as turn wheels, dials, switches, chucks, vices, and cutting
tools made of materials like hardened steel, carbide, and industrial diamond.
In CNC machining, the automated process is driven by code developed by programmers, ensuring
consistent precision from the first cut to subsequent repetitions.
Commonly used in digital manufacturing and occasionally in low-volume production, CNC machining
allows for easy revisions and alterations for modifications and diverse materials.
While traditional machining is still relevant, CNC machining has largely superseded it in
manufacturing, fabrication, and industrial production due to its enhanced precision and automation.
Product Details
CNC turning is a versatile machining process that can effectively work with various materials.
These materials include metals like aluminum, steel, brass, and titanium, as well as plastics
such as acrylic, nylon, and polycarbonate.
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 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. |
Typical Applications of CNC Turning
CNC turning services play a pivotal role in diverse industries, notably in transportation sectors
such as aerospace, automotive, mass transit, rail and locomotive, military, and trucking.
Within these sectors, CNC machines are employed for designing crucial transportation equipment,
including headnuts, gear blanks, bearing blocks, levers, axles, and rotors.
In the construction industry, CNC machines are utilized to create robust bolts and screws from
metals like stainless steel and aluminum, essential for heavy-duty applications.
Additionally, CNC turning services are integral to the production of various auto parts, including
engine components like cylinder heads, connecting rods, and camshafts, transmission parts such
as shafts and rings, as well as suspension components like sway bars, control arms, and tie rod ends.
The aviation industry also heavily relies on CNC turned parts, utilizing them for the customization
and creation of probes, joint connectors, fasteners, and engine and aircraft components, often
opting for titanium due to its capability to withstand extreme temperatures.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. Do you offer other services, like finishing, assembly, packaging, and logistical support?
We offer a complete array of services to ensure a smooth and cost-effective production journey
from start to finish. From finishing operations to logistical support, our capabilities include anodizing,
plating, grinding, finishing, assembly, warehousing, packaging, and just-in-time delivery.
Our goal is to provide a comprehensive and hassle-free production process, freeing up your resources
to focus on your business priorities.
2. 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.
3. What are the minimum and maximum dimensions you can machine?
Our CNC machining services encompass both milling (3-axis, 3+2-axis, and 5-axis) and turning
processes.
For 3/3+2-axis CNC milling, we can machine parts with dimensions up to 2000 x 1500 x 200 mm
(78.7 x 59.0 x 7.8 in.). In the case of 5-axis milling, the maximum part size is 650 x 650 x 300 mm
(25.5 x 25.5 x 11.8 in.).
When it comes to CNC turning, we can handle parts with a maximum diameter of 431 mm (17 in.)
and a length of 990 mm (39 in.). For smaller parts, we recommend a minimum size of around
10 x 10 x 10 mm (0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 in.). Additionally, feature dimensions should not fall below
0.5 mm. Please note that our platform is limited to a maximum size of 1000 mm (39 in.) for parts.
If you have requirements beyond this limit, feel free to contact our sales team for specialized
assistance.
4. How much do CNC machining materials cost?
CNC machining offers a plethora of material choices, leading to varying costs across different options.
The price range for materials is broad, influenced by factors such as physical properties and specific
characteristics of each material. For metal parts, Aluminum 6061 stands out as the most economical
choice. If cost is a primary consideration, ABS emerges as the most budget-friendly option.
Additionally, the ease of machining significantly impacts costs, with materials like stainless steel posing
a higher machining difficulty compared to aluminum, thereby contributing to an increased overall cost.