CNC machining, short for computer numerical control machining, is a subtractive manufacturing
process that utilizes a fusion of computerized controls and machine tools to systematically remove
layers from a solid material block. The programmed instructions for desired metal cuts are aligned
with specific tools and machinery, orchestrating the machining process in an automated manner.
Product Details
CNC machining encompasses a wide variety of materials, each requiring specific machining
parameters for optimal performance. The most common materials include:
1. Metal:
Metal is the predominant material in CNC machining, with the ability to cut various types, from
brass to nickel superalloys like Inconel. Applications range from injection molds to shafts and gears.
2. Plastic:
While injection molding is common for plastic parts, CNC machining is used for specific components
like ABS, nylon, and polycarbonate. Applications include valve bodies, bushings, and injection
molding prototypes.
3. Wood:
CNC routers are frequently employed for wood cutting, especially for decorative purposes like
furniture, window frames, and ornamental panels.
4. Foam:
Polyurethane foam, both closed and open-cell, finds application in CNC machining for creating
secure packaging, such as foam used in toolboxes for tool transportation.
5. Composites:
CNC machines are essential for processing abrasive composite materials like aramid, fiberglass,
and carbon fiber, commonly used in aerospace and marine components.
Common Materials for CNC Machining | |
Material | Properties |
Aluminum | 2024: Good fatigue resistance and strength; excellent toughness at moderate to high strength levels; improved fracture toughness |
6061: Excellent machinability, low cost, and versatility | |
7075: High strength, hardness, low weight, and heat tolerance | |
Brass | Versatile and highly attractive copper/zinc alloy with warm yellow color accommodates severe forming/drawing |
Copper | High ductility and high electrical and thermal conductivity; develops attractive blue-green surface patina over time |
Stainless Steel | Excellent machinability and outstanding uniformity; good workability and weldability, high ductility and formability |
Steel Alloy | Mix of chromium, molybdenum, and manganese yields toughness, good torsional and fatigue strength |
Steel Mild Low Carbon | High machinability and weldability, high stiffness; good mechanical properties, machinability, and weldability at low cost |
Titanium | Excellent strength to weight ratio, used in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries |
ABS | Excellent impact resistance, good mechanical properties, susceptible to solvents |
Nylon | Excellent mechanical properties, high toughness, poor moisture resistance |
POM | High stiffness, excellent thermal & electrical properties, relatively brittle |
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 Finishing Options for CNC Machining | ||
Name | Applicable Materials | Can be Applied with |
Alodine | Aluminum | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Type II Anodizing* Type III Anodizing*, Type III Anodizing with PTFE* |
Anodizing | Aluminum | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Alodine* |
Black Oxide | Steel, Stainless Steel | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Passivation |
Electroless Nickel Plating | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel | Media Blasting, Tumbling |
Electropolishing | Steel, Stainless Steel | — |
Hand Polishing | Acrylic | Enhanced cosmetic appearance |
Media Blasting | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, Bronze, Copper | All post processes except Electropolish and Powdercoat |
Nickel Plating | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel | Media Blasting, Tumbling |
Passivation | Steel, Stainless Steel | Black Oxide, Electroless Nickel Plating, Zinc Plating, Tumbling, Media Blasting |
Powder Coating | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel | — |
Tumbling | Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, Bronze, Copper | All post processes except Electropolish and Powdercoat |
Vapor Polishing | CNC Polycarbonate (Clear, Black) | Enhanced cosmetic appearance, near optically clear applications |
Zinc Plating | Steel, Stainless Steel | Media Blasting, Tumbling, Passivation |
Applications of CNC Machining
CNC machines let operators create complex designs with very tight tolerances.
As a result, it is one of the most accurate manufacturing techniques to date.
Here’s a look at the products you can create:
1. Aerospace components such as landing gear components, fuselage structures
2. Components for the automotive industry such as control panels, axles, car molds
3. Consumer electronics components such as enclosures
4. Medical components such as surgical instruments, orthotics
5. Oil and gas machine parts such as valves, rods, pins
6. Prototyping and modeling
7. Sculptures
8. Furniture
9. Woodworking
Company Profile
FAQ's
1. What type of surface finishes does provide?
We provide an extensive range of finishing services designed to achieve virtually any desired look
and feel for your parts. Our offerings include treatments for metals, texturing for plastic injection
mold tools, and painting for both metal and plastic surfaces, among many others.
For more information on specifying the surface texture you desire, you can refer to our blog.
2. Is it possible to passivate my parts?
Passivation is a surface treatment that alters the chemistry of certain metals. We provide passivation
services aimed at enhancing corrosion protection, durability, cosmetic appearance, and more.
3. How much import duty should I expect to pay for my goods?
Providing an exact figure is challenging as import duties are subject to various factors.
Customers in Australia can benefit from the new CHAFTA regulations, facilitating a gradual introduction
of duty-free imports.
Import duties differ significantly from one country to another and are contingent upon the type of
goods being imported. The majority of countries adhere to the international Harmonized System (HS)
codes, which classify almost all commercial trade goods.
4. What are your shipping terms?
Our default shipping terms are Ex Works (EXW) for both rapid prototyping and regular production
orders. Under this arrangement, the customer assumes responsibility for shipping, customs clearance,
and all associated fees once the goods have departed from our premises.
In the case of express shipments, we utilize Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU). This implies that the client
is responsible for settling the import duty upon the arrival of the goods at the designated destination.