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CNC Machining vs Turning: Their Differences and Which One to Choose

Introduction\

CNC machining and turning are two of the most common manufacturing processes for numerous industries. In this blog post, we will compare both methods, highlighting their differences, and what factors to consider when choosing between them.

CNC Machining\

CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses computer numerical control machines to remove material from a block of raw material to create a finished product or part. The machine’s cutting tools follow a programmed path that can produce incredibly precise and complicated shapes. CNC machining is optimal for creating parts with intricate geometries that aren’t easily produced with other manufacturing processes. It’s typically used for producing parts for aircraft, automobiles, and medical devices.

Turning\

Turning is a process that involves rotating a piece of raw material rapidly and removing the unwanted material with a cutting tool. The turning process is typically used for cylindrical-shaped parts like shafts, bolts, or screws. The materials that can be used for turning include metals, plastics, and wood. Turning is recommended for creating parts with a round profile since it can quickly remove the unwanted material and has a smooth surface finish.

Differences Between CNC Machining And Turning

1. Cutting Tools - Which is Better?\

The primary difference between CNC machining and turning is the type of cutting tool used. A CNC machine generally uses a stationary cutting tool, while turning uses a cutting tool that rotates. CNC machines are more versatile than turning since they can produce a wide range of shapes and parts. Turning is best suited for manufacturing parts that are rotational symmetric and have round profiles.

2. Production Speeds\

CNC machining can produce parts at a greater speed than turning. CNC machines work on a 3-axis or higher, allowing for a faster and more streamlined manufacturing process. Turning is more time-consuming since it can only produce cylindrical parts.

3. Material Selection\

CNC machining is suitable for nearly every material used in manufacturing. On the other hand, turning is best suited for producing cylindrical parts from metals, wood, and certain plastics. If you need to make parts that have profiles other than cylindrical or would like to manufacture with various materials, CNC machining is your best choice.

Which One to Choose?\

Each process is optimized for a specific set of geometries, materials, and production volumes. The critical factor when deciding between CNC machining and turning are:

1. Material and Part Geometry\

If you’re producing a cylindrical part, turning is the best choice. Alternatively, if you need to produce complex shapes with lots of details, milling is the better option.

2. Volumes\

CNC machining is a better choice for high-volume production runs since it has superior efficiency and speed compared to turning. For low-volume runs, turning works bets.

3. Materials\

If you’re working with a specialized material such as titanium or magnesium, your best bet is to use CNC machines since the process can accommodate nearly every material.

Reference For Further Reading\

If you want to learn more about CNC machining and turning, we recommend going through this great article by Make Parts Fast:

Conclusion\

CNC machining and turning are unique manufacturing processes designed for a specific set of geometries, materials, and production volumes. Choose which one to use based on the factors mentioned earlier, and you’ll be able to optimize your production needs efficiently.

cnc machining vs turning

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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.