The Ultimate Guide To A CNC Milling Service

CNC, or computer numerical control machining, is a subtractive manufacturing process that allows industries to achieve complex machined parts with high accuracy. These machines offer custom manufacturing capabilities, and CNC machining companies utilize a wide range of complex computer-controlled machinery for various functions.

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In this article, we will focus on CNC milling machines. These machines are ideal for producing small, precise machine parts and have revolutionized the manufacturing process in the electronics industry. This guide will serve as your ultimate resource for CNC milling services.

What is CNC Milling?

CNC milling involves the production of milled parts using machines that allow for the fabrication of complex metal and plastic components. Milling machines can efficiently work on both flat and irregular surfaces, making them essential in the automobile industry for gear production. Like other CNC machines, they operate using CAD files and specified instructions.

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How does CNC milling work?

The operation of a CNC milling machine is similar to that of a CNC lathe. Unlike lathe machines that use static cutting tools while the workpiece rotates, CNC milling machines hold the workpiece steady while the cutting tool rotates, removing excess raw material. The cutting tools used are typically sharp and cylindrical, allowing for efficient machining of irregular surfaces.

Tolerances are crucial when selecting the optimal machine for prototype production. CNC milling machines provide precise tolerances of ± 0.005 inches, and the milling process is straightforward.

The milling operation begins with developing a 3D CAD file, which is converted into a CAM file and then into CNC G-code that the machine can read. The G-code dictates each motion throughout the milling process. As a subtractive manufacturing technique, CNC milling involves using cutting tools to accurately remove material from the workpiece, with the process varying depending on the type of milling machine used. Different machines can operate at varying angles and axes to create custom parts. Before mass production, a prototype model is typically made to ensure that quality meets expectations for larger runs.

Types of Machines in CNC Milling Service

CNC milling serves as a custom machining technique for producing unique CNC parts on a stationary workpiece. The following are types of milling machines based on their function and spindle orientation:

Horizontal Milling Machine:

A horizontal milling machine utilizes a horizontal cutting spindle that rotates around the static workpiece to remove material. Parts made with horizontal milling machines are generally more precise than those produced with vertical milling machines.

Vertical Milling Machine:

Vertical milling machines hold the spindle vertically, rotating the tool against the workpiece surface. They use longer and sharper cutting tools compared to horizontal machines. Vertical milling is the most common method for manufacturing parts.

The vertical motion facilitates spindle movement up and down the workpiece, effectively removing excess material to achieve the desired shape. Vertical milling machines are divided into two categories:

Bed Type Milling Machine:

Bed type milling machines can move the workpiece table perpendicular to the axis, providing the spindle with additional movement freedom to create intricate designs with high precision.

Turret Milling Machine:

Turret milling machines can rotate the workpiece perpendicular to the axis while also allowing the spindle to move parallel to the axis. They are more commonly used than bed type machines.

3 Axis Milling Machine:

3 axis CNC machines approach the workpiece along three linear axes (X, Y, and Z) and offer excellent performance for parts featuring moderate geometries, complete with a rotating table for complex shapes, particularly beneficial in the aeronautics industry. For more complex designs, 4 and 5 axis CNC services are preferred.

5 Axis Milling Machine:

5 axis machines handle the most intricate part production. These machines approach the workpiece along three linear axes (X, Y, and Z) and two rotational axes (A and B), allowing for efficient machining on multiple sides of a component, which minimizes manual repositioning time.

Plain Milling Machine:

A plain milling machine operates in longitudinal, cross, and vertical angles, with the spindle's axis typically parallel to the machined surface.

Duplex Milling Machine:

This type of milling machine integrates both vertical and horizontal milling capabilities, with the spindle head able to move vertically and across the work table.

Benefits of CNC Milling

The numerous CNC machines share similar advantages due to their common operational principles. Here are the key benefits of CNC machining using milling machines:

Multipoint Cutting Tool:

Milling machines use multipoint cutting tools that resemble sharp tooth edges. These tools consist of multiple single-point tools that remove layers of raw material by creating grooves and slots.

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Reduced Lead Time:

A major limitation of manual machining was the time taken for operators to switch cutting tools to achieve complex geometries, leading to low efficiency and lower production volumes.

With CNC milling machines’ automated features, operators can now produce large batches through coded instructions, allowing for increased accuracy, reduced lead times, and higher production volumes.

High Precision:

The growing success and popularity of CNC machining is driven by the exceptional precision it provides in every detail of the machined part. Cutting tools can approach the workpiece from five different axes, effectively removing material as needed. Finishing techniques contribute to improving both functionality and the overall aesthetics of the machined components.

Reduced Labor Cost:

Companies previously required numerous staff to operate manual machines; however, with advanced computer-operated machinery, only a few skilled operators are now necessary to manage the machine programs.

No Human Error:

The computer-controlled nature of CNC machines greatly reduces the possibility of human error. In industries such as aerospace, where minor mistakes can lead to significant financial losses, CNC machining centers are essential for producing precise, complex parts consistently.

The Applications for CNC Milling

Below are some notable applications of CNC milling machines across various industries:

Automotive Industry:

The shift from manual cars to electric vehicles has greatly benefited from CNC machining technology, which is commonly employed in producing automotive parts and spare engine components.

Electronic Appliances:

CNC milling machines have made significant strides in producing various household electronic appliances. Unimaginable gadgets are now manufactured efficiently with CNC technology, with components for smartphones, tablets, mainframes, and TVs being made using milling machines.

Military Industry:

CNC milling services are extensively utilized to produce precise components for military applications, including body protection gear, aiming devices, firearms, and more.

Medical Industry:

CNC machining has led to the production of high-precision surgical tools such as scissors, forceps, and clamps, as well as dental implants, cavity molds, and prosthetics.

Agriculture Industry:

Historically, farmers relied on manual labor for planting and harvesting crops, which limited production. However, recent advancements have introduced automated equipment, including tractors, harvesters, and hoppers, effectively enhancing agricultural efficiency, with CNC milling machines playing a key role.

The Future for CNC Milling

Industries are increasingly embracing automation. The cost of 5 axis CNC milling machines has decreased in recent years, making this technology more accessible for new businesses, as these machines can conduct various operations in a single setup.

5 axis machines have already contributed greatly to innovation in the health, aerospace, automobile, and electronics industries. The automation of these machines has allowed for consistently high-quality standards. Continued advancements in precision CNC machining are expected, as it remains one of the fastest-growing sectors globally.

In conclusion, the future of CNC milling and CNC machining at large is shifting towards more efficient methods of synchronizing machine operations for improved accuracy, shorter lead times, and minimal setups.

Conclusion

CNC milling service offers an effective manufacturing process that transforms 3D designs into precise plastic and metal parts. Due to its one-stop manufacturing capability and shorter lead times, it is widely employed in rapid prototyping services. The CNC machining industry will increasingly focus on automation, enhancing machining centers to cost-effectively and feasibly create more complex shapes.

If you are looking for a reliable CNC milling and machining service provider, you’ve come to the right place! Worthy Hardware is a trusted name among clients worldwide, boasting over a decade of industry experience. We offer additional services such as high-volume manufacturing, surface finishing, and rapid prototyping for custom CNC machined parts. Our professional CNC mill operators ensure high accuracy and detail in your custom projects. Contact us or fill out this form to receive an instant quote for your machining needs!

Worthy Hardware is a CNC manufacturing and sheet metal fabrication company, including CNC machining services, CNC milling services, CNC turning services, laser cutting services, and stamping services. Call us +86- or email us [ protected] for discounts on your projects.

What is CNC milling?

CNC milling uses rotational cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece to produce finished parts and products. This manufacturing process works well for many materials, including metals, polymers, wood, and glass. CNC milling systems generally have three linear degrees of freedom: the X, Y, and Z axes, allowing for top-notch precision and detailing. Protolabs Network also offers more advanced 5-degree systems where the tool head and machining bed (A and B axes) can also rotate. 5-axis CNC machines can produce parts with high geometric complexity without needing multiple machine setups.

Learn more about CNC milling and turning

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