CNC machining, short for computer numerical control machining, is a widely used manufacturing
process that employs automated, high-speed cutting tools to shape designs from metal or plastic
stock materials.
Common CNC machines include 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling machines, lathes, and routers.
These machines may employ different approaches to cut CNC parts, such as keeping the workpiece
stationary while the tool moves, keeping the tool stationary while rotating and moving the workpiece,
or moving both the cutting tool and workpiece simultaneously.
Experienced machinists operate CNC machines by programming tool paths based on the final machined
parts' geometrical specifications, which are derived from a CAD (computer-aided design) model.
CNC machines exhibit the capability to precisely and repeatedly cut nearly any metal alloy and rigid
plastic, making them suitable for custom machined parts in a wide range of industries, including
aerospace, medical, robotics, electronics, and industrial applications.
Product Details
CNC machining 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.
Here is a comprehensive overview of the most popular materials.
The Most Popular Materials | |
Name | Characteristics |
Aluminum 6061 | Good strength-to-weight ratio, excellent machinability, low hardness |
Stainless Steel 304 | Excellent mechanical properties, resistant to corrosion & acid, relatively difficult to machine |
Brass C360 | High ductility, excellent machinability, good corrosion resistance |
ABS | Excellent impact resistance, good mechanical properties, susceptible to solvents |
Nylon (PA6 & PA66) | Excellent mechanical properties, high toughness, poor moisture resistance |
POM (Delrin) | High stiffness, excellent thermal & electrical properties, relatively brittle |
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 finds extensive applications across various industries. It is prevalent in sectors
like aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, robotics, agriculture, and others that rely
on metal components.
Additionally, CNC machining plays a significant role in medical devices, household products,
energy, oil and gas, as well as various consumer-oriented applications. It stands as one of the
most widely adopted manufacturing processes globally.
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. What is the typical delivery time and quotation process?
Our delivery time and quotation process are influenced by the complexity of your project.
For low-complexity parts, expect a lead time of 2-3 days. As complexity increases, the lead time
can range from 2-5 days. High-complexity parts may require a lead time of 5-15 days.
Quotation turnaround time varies based on complexity as well.
For straightforward designs, we can provide a quote within 1 business day or even faster.
However, for more intricate projects, the quoting process may take 3 or more business days.
If you have a design that needs assessment and a quote from our team, please don't hesitate to
contact us.
2. What are typical machining tolerances?
The standard machining tolerance is ± 0.005 inches or 0.13 millimeters.
Tolerances define the allowable range for a dimension.
For example, 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 tolerances as tight as
± 0.0002 inches. Without a drawing, all CNC parts adhere to our ISO 2768 medium standard.
We can also machine to even tighter tolerances of ± 0.025 millimeters or ± 0.001 inches when
an engineering drawing specifies critical features.
3. What size of fillets are added when no specific fillet is specified by the 3D model
or drawing?
If a particular fillet radius is not specified in the 3D model or drawing, please indicate your
preference. In the absence of specific instructions, the fillet radii will be added by the machinist
based on their judgment for ease of machining.
As a general guideline, internal vertical edge radii may exceed one-third of the depth,
while internal horizontal edges could be left sharp or have a radius ranging from 0.5mm to 1mm.