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5 Essential CNC Machining Operations for Modern Manufacturing

In the world of manufacturing, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is an indispensable technique applied in numerous industries to achieve precision and efficiency. This highly versatile process utilizes computer-controlled machines and tools to produce complex, custom-designed parts. In this blog post, we will dive into 5 essential CNC machining operations that every manufacturer should be aware of for optimal production.

1. Milling

Milling is among the most common CNC machining operations, where a rotary cutting tool is employed to remove material from a workpiece. This process can be executed in various directions on multiple axes, offering high levels of flexibility in shape and design. Milling is typically performed using two main types of machines: horizontal and vertical. The primary distinction lies in their spindle orientation, with horizontal milling machines having a horizontally oriented spindle, while vertical milling machines feature a vertically oriented spindle.

2. Turning

Another essential CNC operation is turning, which involves rotating the workpiece on its axis while cutting tools shave off material. One of the primary CNC machines used for this process is the lathe. Functions such as knurling, threading, and boring can also be performed using a CNC lathe. Turning is particularly effective for creating cylindrical or round-shaped parts and components. The technique is popular across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing.

3. Drilling

Drilling is a basic CNC operation used for creating holes in workpieces. It requires the use of drill bits to cut through material and typically involves three different stages: spotting, pilot drilling, and drilling to final size. Drilling machines are commonly categorized into vertical and horizontal types, depending on the spindle orientation. A multiple spindle drill can also be used to create numerous holes at the same time, significantly boosting productivity. CNC drilling offers both superior accuracy and better consistency than manual drilling methods.

4. Grinding

Grinding is a CNC machining operation that utilizes abrasive wheels to remove material from a workpiece's surface to create a smooth finish or precise dimensions. A grinding machine utilizes a grinding wheel with tiny abrasive particles to form the desired surface finish and is often used to achieve high precision, smooth surface finishes, or to grind hardened materials. There are several types of grinding techniques, including surface grinding, cylindrical grinding, and centerless grinding, each suitable for different applications.

5. EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining)

EDM, or Electrical Discharge Machining, is a unique CNC process where parts are cut by utilizing electrical discharges (sparks) between electrodes and the workpiece. This operation does not use mechanical force to remove material, thus making it an ideal technique for producing intricate geometries and parts made from hardened materials, such as molds and dies. Two main types of EDM processes are commonly used in manufacturing:

Wire EDM: Also known as wire-cut EDM, the wire EDM process utilizes a small, thin wire electrode that moves in the desired cutting pattern, generating electrical discharges to cut through the workpiece material.

Sinker EDM: Also called Ram EDM or die-sinking EDM, this technique utilizes a custom-shaped electrode that is lowered into the workpiece to create the desired cavity, with electrical discharges removing material from the corresponding sections.

Modern manufacturing facilities must leverage the power of CNC machining to achieve precision, efficiency, and flexibility in their production processes. Equipping themselves with knowledge about these five essential CNC operations will enable manufacturers to stay competitive in an ever-evolving industry and produce high-quality parts and components that meet the stringent demands of various sector applications. With continued advancements and innovations in CNC technology, it will be exciting to see what future possibilities await the realm of manufacturing.

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Equipped with 3-4-5 axis CNC milling and CNC turning machines, which enable us to handle even more complex parts with high precision.

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What can we do?

Sigma Technik Limited, as a prototype production company and rapid manufacturer focusing on rapid prototyping and low volume production of plastic and metal parts, has advanced manufacturing technology, one-stop service, diversified manufacturing methods, on-demand manufacturing services and efficient manufacturing processes, which can provide customers with high-quality, efficient and customized product manufacturing services and help customers improve product quality and market competitiveness.

CNC Machining Case Application Field

CNC machining is a versatile manufacturing technology that can be used for a wide range of applications. Common examples include components for the aerospace, automotive, medical industries and etc.

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CNC Machining FAQs

Get the support you need on CNC machining and engineering information by reading the FAQ here.

It may be caused by unstable processing equipment or tool wear and other reasons, so it is necessary to check the equipment and tools in time and repair or replace them.

It may be due to severe wear of cutting tools or inappropriate cutting parameters, which require timely replacement or adjustment of cutting tools or adjustment of machining parameters.

It may be caused by programming errors, program transmission errors, or programming parameter settings, and it is necessary to check and modify the program in a timely manner.

It may be due to equipment imbalance or unstable cutting tools during the processing, and timely adjustment of equipment and tools is necessary.

The quality and usage method of cutting fluid can affect the surface quality of parts and tool life. It is necessary to choose a suitable cutting fluid based on the processing materials and cutting conditions, and use it according to the instructions.

It may be due to residual stress in the material and thermal deformation during processing, and it is necessary to consider the compatibility between the material and processing technology to reduce part deformation.