Did you know that CNC machining is one of the most popular methods for manufacturing custom parts? It’s estimated that over 80% of all manufactured parts are made using these machines. It’s no wonder that custom CNC machine is so popular – they offer a high degree of accuracy, repeatability, and versatility. Many companies offer custom CNC machining services, and the process has become more affordable than ever.
If you’re considering making custom parts made using such a method, you should know a few things about the process. In this post, you’ll learn everything you need to know about CNC machining.
The Invention and Development of CNC Machining
CNC machining was developed in the early 1940s by John T. Parsons, an engineer working on the Manhattan Project. Parsons realized that he could use punched tape to control the movements of a machine tool, and he later succeeded in building a prototype CNC milling machine. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that CNC machining began to gain widespread adoption. In 1957, MIT developed one of the first commercially successful CNC machines, and other companies soon followed suit. Until 1989, these CNC machines had been the industry standard.
CNC machining is used in various industries, from aerospace to medical device manufacturing. And it all started with one man’s vision and invention.
How Does CNC Machining Work?
CNC machining is a manufacturing process that forms parts by removing material from a block of raw material. The three most common methods for removing material are milling, drilling, and turning.
- Milling is the most common method of CNC machining, and it can be used to create a wide variety of parts. The milling process involves rotating cutting tools to remove material from the workpiece. It can be performed using various cutting tools, including end mills, ball end mills, and face mills.
- Drilling is another common method of CNC machining, and it’s typically used to create holes in parts. The drilling process involves using a rotating drill bit to remove material from the workpiece.
- Turning is the third most used method of CNC machining, and it’s used to create cylindrical parts. The turning process involves using a rotating cutting tool to remove material from the workpiece.
There are also a few other methods of CNC machining, including electrical discharge machining (EDM) and laser cutting. However, these methods are less common than milling, drilling, and turning.
What Materials Can Be Machined Using CNC?
CNC machining can machine various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites. The most common materials machined using CNC are aluminum, brass, and steel.
However, almost any material can be machined using CNC, including titanium, magnesium, and glass.
Choosing the suitable material for your application is essential if you’re considering having custom parts made. The material you choose will determine the properties of your interest and affect your project’s cost and lead time. The custom CNC machine service you choose will be able to help you select the suitable material for your project. They’ll also be able to recommend the most effective manufacturing approach for your components.
What Are the Advantages of CNC Machining?
CNC machining has many advantages, which is why it’s become a popular manufacturing process. Here are just a few of the benefits of CNC machining:
-It’s a versatile manufacturing process that can create various parts.
-It’s a fast and efficient manufacturing process.
-It’s a repeatable and precise manufacturing process.
-It’s an automated manufacturing process.
-It’s a flexible manufacturing process.
As you can see, there are a number of advantages to CNC machining. If you’re considering having custom parts made, CNC machining is a manufacturing process you should consider. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with a company that offers custom CNC machining services today and get started on your next project.
