Compared CNC Milling and CNC Routing Machining Process

At Creatingway, we utilize CNC routing and CNC milling machines to make custom-build parts. Both milling and routing perform similar functions but possess variations in certain characteristics. We are attentive to their capabilities and the fact that they do not use the same material while machining. However, they have some degree of similarity. For example, we control both machines using a computer. Hence the name CNC. Both also function by moving a cutting tool about a workpiece in several axes.

How They Work For CNC Milling and CNC Routing Machining

Generally, the machines work through subtractive manufacturing. It essentially means they extrude excess material from a workpiece instead of adding. An example of the alternate additive manufacturing process is 3D printing. They utilize a cutting tool known as router bit or end mill to cut into the workpiece. Some projects even require several routers or end mills to accomplish the perfect combination of cuts.

You might now be wondering what the differences between CNC milling and CNC routing. Here is further insight into their differences to help you in choosing the machining process that suits your design.

• CNC Mill

We use CNC milling machines for heavy-duty jobs. It handles materials such as aluminum, titanium, and steel. It can withstand tensile strengths of up to 2000, which is the value of stainless steel. By definition, tensile strength is the measure of the ability of a material to resist being pulled apart. We perform this with exceptionally high levels of accuracy and precision. However, CNC mills operate a slower speed when compared to a CNC router.

• CNC Router

We use CNC routing machines for softer material when compared to CNC milling. They cannot handle hard materials such as titanium and steel. The reason is the power delivered by a CNC router is less compared to that of a CNC mill. A router uses less torque and thus utilizes its rotational speed to derive its force for cutting.

How to Distinguish Between A CNC Mill and CNC Router？

Our team of experts will assist you in selecting the right machine process for your design. Here are some of the distinguishing features between the two machining processes that we consider for every design.

• Accuracy

If you desire accurately done components parts, then CNC milling is the right set up for you. It is suitable for highly sensitive parts in certain industries such as aerospace, medical and military industries. Especially when we have to consider the precision of the parts needed. This is particularly true when lives are at stake and the difference of even a micrometer could jeopardize this. On the other hand, CNC routers do not offer the same type of accuracy as seen in CNC mills. We use it to make basic cuts on soft material.

• Materials

  

This is the most important difference between the two machining techniques. It depends on the goal of your project and the material your project will need. Soft material suits a CNC router more than a CNC mill. The materials we consider soft include, plastic, wood, and foam. On the other spectrum are hard materials such as steel, titanium, and aluminum.  A CNC mill is quite capable of cutting through such tough materials.

• Cutting area

We use this aspect to determine what starting point is most suitable for your project. A CNC mill handles best a design requiring a lot of detail. This is because it offers a deeper Z-axis cut in the workpiece. However, for Workpieces that are large or very wide, we prefer using the CNC router. The reason being its characteristic of cutting a large area.  Additionally, CNC mills move in an X-Y direction while CNC routers have a stationary table on which the workpiece is on.

• Speed of Machining

This helps to determine how fast and at what rate you want your parts made. Clients that desire numerous copies of a part made within a short period, we recommend the CNC router machining process. On the other hand, the CNC mill may take a bit longer to craft the part requested. It compensates for this disadvantage by offering precision in designing your part.

Advantages of CNC Milling and Routing

Some of the benefits acquired from CNC milling and routing include:

• Precision of components
• Offer lower costs
• Uniformity in products made
• Better safety ensured
• Possess Versatility
• Low maintenance

Application of CNC Milling and Routing

CNC milling and routing caters for a variety of companies and business that need intricate designs. Each industry in a way is reliant on these machining processes as they utilize valves, plates, nozzles, and fasteners. Some of the industries include:

• Medical industry
• Oil and gas industry
• Automobile industry
• Electronics industry
• Military industry

In summary, we at Creatingway undertake several CNC milling and routing operations. We take into account several considerations before deciding whether the milling or routing services is the optimal solution for your design. For any inquiries, contact us now.

Creatingway is concentrated on CNC machining manufacturing, prototype machining, low-volume manufacturing, metal fabrication, and parts finishing services, provide you the best support and services. ask us one inquire now.

 

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