CNC machining stands as the prevailing subtractive manufacturing method today, offering
remarkable versatility and reliability in crafting bespoke metal and plastic components.
Leveraging CAD models, CNC machines meticulously eliminate material from solid blocks
using a diverse range of cutting tools.
In essence, CNC machining yields parts with precise tolerances and exceptional material
characteristics. It finds applicability in individual projects and low-to-medium volume
production (up to 10000 parts), owing to its superior repeatability.
Nonetheless, it imposes more design constraints compared to 3D printing, largely due to its
subtractive nature.
Product Details
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. |
PVC | Excellent chemical and weather resistance and good toughness. |
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, renowned for its precision, finds widespread utility in crafting intricate designs.
It serves as a versatile method for producing various items including aerospace components,
furniture, medical parts, prototypes, titanium components, and woodworking projects.
Company Profile
Advantages and Disadvantages of CNC Machining
CNC machining stands as a versatile and often ideal manufacturing process, serving a range
of applications from prototyping to medium-scale production of end-use components.
However, it is not without its strengths and limitations. Here, we explore both the advantages
and drawbacks of this subtractive machining technique.
Advantages:
1. Exceptional Precision and Repeatability: CNC machining, encompassing milling and turning,
excels at producing parts with exceptionally tight tolerances, making it a preferred choice for
high-end industries like aerospace, aviation, and automotive.
2. Versatile Material Compatibility: Most materials used in CNC machining exhibit excellent and
fully-isotropic physical properties, rendering them suitable for a wide spectrum of engineering
applications.
3. Cost-Effective for Medium-Volume Production: CNC machining is a cost-effective method for
manufacturing low-to-medium quantities of metal parts, accommodating single prototypes to
production runs of up to 1,000 units.
Disadvantages:
1. Limitations in Geometric Complexity: The subtractive nature of CNC machining can be
prohibitive and costly for producing highly complex geometries.
2. Higher Startup Costs: In terms of initial setup expenses, CNC machining entails a more
significant investment compared to 3D printing, making the latter a more economical choice
for low-cost plastic prototypes.
3. Longer Lead Times: CNC machining typically involves longer lead times, with an average
turnaround of 5-10 days, compared to the shorter 2-5 days associated with 3D printing.
Specialized Knowledge Requirement: Operating CNC machines necessitates a higher level
of expertise compared to the more widely accessible 3D printers, which can be managed
with relative ease.