Precision CNC Machining Services

Precision CNC Machining Services

CNC is an acronym that stands for Computer Numerical Control. It refers to a subtractive creation process that uses machine tools and computerized controls. The tools remove layers from a workpiece or blank to produce a custom part. At Creatingway, we can use CNC machining on an array of materials such as metals, plastics, and composites. This helps us serve a wide range of industries such as the aerospace, automobile, and tech industries. Notably, there is a difference between the machine and the actual process. A CNC machine is an actual programmable machine that autonomously does CNC machining operations.

A Summary of the Precision CNC Machining Services Process

The computerized controls in CNC machining operate the machine and cutting tools to alter the shape of the workpiece. Though it offers unique operations and capabilities, the basic principle remains the same in all of them. Below are the basic stages in precision CNC machining services.

• Designing the CAD model

This stage entails creating a 2D vector or 3D solid part CAD design. It allows our designer to render or model the product as well as provide the key technical specifications. These include geometries and dimensions that aid us in producing a part. The abilities of CNC machines restrict the designs for machined parts. Other restricting factors include material properties, work-holding abilities, and tooling design. Upon completion of a CAD design, we export it in a CNC-compatible file format like IGES or STEP.

• Conversion of CAD File

We run the formatted CAD design through CAM software to extract the product’s geometry. This creates a digital code that controls the CNC machine by manipulating the tooling. G-code and M-code are the program languages we use in CNC machines. The G-code controls the how, where and when the machine tools move across the workpiece. Meanwhile, the M-code controls the extra machine functions. These may include automating the removal and return of the machine cover at the start and end of the creation process. Once we complete the CNC program, we load it onto the CNC machine.

• Machine Setup

This stage involves preparing the CNC machine for operation before running the program. It entails fixing the workpiece into the machine or on the spindles and vises. This also covers adding the needed tooling, like end mills and drill bits to the machine.

• Execute Machining Operation

The CNC program provides commands to the CNC machines. This cover dictating the tooling actions and machine movements. Executing the machine program starts the CNC machining process towards producing the custom-designed part.

What Are the Types of Precision CNC Machining Services?

CNC machining processes cover an array of machining operations. These include chemical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical ones. Here is further insight into a few of the main precision CNC machining services operations.

• CNC Drilling

CNC drilling involves the use of drill bits to create holes in the workpiece. The CNC machine feeds the revolving drill bit at a right angle to the workpiece’s plane. This creates a vertical hole that has a diameter equal to the drill bit. In angular drilling operations, however, we use special work-holding devices. A few of its special abilities include counter-sinking, reaming, counter-boring, and tapping

• CNC Milling

CNC milling entails the use of a rotating multipoint cutting tool in removing material from the blank. The CNC machine feeds the blank to the cutting tool in the same direction as its cutting rotation. In manual milling, however, we move it in the opposite direction to the tool’s rotation. One of its special abilities involves face milling. It involves cutting flat, shallow surfaces or flat-bottomed holes in the blank. Another one is peripheral milling the entails cutting deep holes like threads and slots into the blank.

• CNC Turning

CNC Turning involves the use of a single-point cutting tool in removing matter from a rotating blank. The CNC machine, in this case, is a turning machine or lathe. It feeds the cutting tool linearly along the rotating workpiece’s surface. It alters the material around the circumference until we achieve the desired outcome. At Creatingway, we use it to create cylinders with inner and outer features like tapers, slots, and threads. A few of its special abilities include facing, boring, thread cutting, and grooving.

• CNC Metal Spinning

CNC metal spinning resembles a CNC lather. In this case, we have a metal spinning roller that alters the shape of the workpiece. It is a cold process that works on preformed metal. The friction between the spinning lathe and roller creates enough force to shape the part.

What Are the Types of CNC Machines and Machine Tools?

The CNC machining services process uses an array of tools and machines depending on the type of operation. Here are a few examples.

• CNC Drilling Tools

Drilling involves the use of revolving drill bits to create cylindrical holes in the blank. The drill bit’s design enables the waste metal chips to fall off the workpiece. There is an array of drill bits at our disposal. Spotting drill bits help create a pilot or shallow hole while peck drills reduce the number of chips on the blank. Chucking reamers enlarge previous holes while screw machine drills create holes without a shallow hole.

• CNC Milling Tools

Milling involves the use of cutting tools in shaping a blank. The milling tools can either be vertical or horizontal and include helical mills, end mills, and chamfer mills. The CNC milling process use mill machines. Basic mills can move in 3-axes while advanced ones move in extra axes. A few of the available mills include plain milling, hand milling, omniverse, and universal milling.

• CNC Turning Tools

CNC turning uses single-point cutting tools in removing matter from a rotating blank. The turning tool’s design varies depending on the particular use. We use the tools in facing, finishing, roughing, forming, parting, undercutting, and grooving uses. The types of CNC lathes at our disposal include engine lathes, turret lathes, and special lathes.

What Are the Criteria for Material Selection?

The CNC machining process can ideally work on metals, plastics, and composites. We choose materials depending on the CNC manufacturing use. The materials often vary in terms of hardness, strength, temp, and chemical resistance. The physical feature of a workpiece material aid in determining the optimal cutting speed, feeding rate, and cutting depth.

This overview will hopefully provide a broad insight into the world of CNC machining services. If you have any inquiries regarding CNC machining, simply contact us.

Start Your CNC Machining Projects Today

With a variety of CNC machining services and a range of finishing surface processes to choose from and guaranteed quality due to our inspection standard, you can fully trust you will receive great parts every time. Once you send us your 3D CAD file, one of our project engineers will check your design for manufacturability evaluation to ensure that the part can be made to your expectations and budget. Contact us for a free quote now!

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