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What is CNC Milling?
CNC milling is an advanced process that utilizes computer-controlled machine tools to perform machining.
Unlike manual milling, CNC milling only requires the proper computer software and a library of programs to guide the machine on how to create the desired product.
CNC milling is based on a three-dimensional CAD model of the workpiece, and under the guidance of a computer program, the tool is moved along a variety of complex curves to achieve precise machining of the workpiece.
Compared with traditional milling and general machining, CNC milling can make your product production more accurate and efficient.
Below, we will introduce you the advantages of CNC milling, application areas and how CNC milling works.
CNC milling is an advanced process that utilizes computer-controlled machine tools to perform machining.
Unlike manual milling, CNC milling only requires the proper computer software and a library of programs to guide the machine on how to create the desired product.
CNC milling is based on a three-dimensional CAD model of the workpiece, and under the guidance of a computer program, the tool is moved along a variety of complex curves to achieve precise machining of the workpiece.
Compared with traditional milling and general machining, CNC milling can make your product production more accurate and efficient.
Catalogue:
- Advantages of CNC milling?
- Application of CNC milling.
- How does CNC milling work?
- Types of CNC Milling.
- How to choose an excellent CNC milling parts manufacturer?
- What are the common materials used for CNC milling?
1. Advantages of CNC milling?
Compared with the characteristics of ordinary milling machine processing, CNC milling also has the following characteristics:
① . High precision and stable quality
The pulse equivalent of the CNC device is generally 0.001mm, high-precision CNC systems up to 0.1μm, in addition, CNC machining also avoids operator error.
② . Effective efficiency
CNC milling machine has the function of milling machine, boring machine, drilling machine, so that the process is highly centralized, greatly improving the production efficiency.
③ . Can process complex parts
Because CNC milling is programmed through the three-dimensional CAD model, it can process parts that cannot be processed by ordinary machine tools or are very difficult to process. It can realize the demand of more complex parts, such as mold parts, shell parts, etc.
④ . Reduce the waste of resources
The cutting efficiency of CNC machine tools is higher than that of manual machine tools. The spindle speed and feed rate of CNC milling machine are infinitely variable, so it is conducive to selecting the optimal cutting dosage.
2. Application of CNC milling
Aerospace
CNC milling machine is used to process airplane parts, such as wings, engine parts, etc..
Automobile
CNC milling machine is used to process automobile parts, such as engine block, crankcase and so on.
Mould
CNC milling machine is used to process complex surfaces and cavities of molds.
Electronic
CNC milling machine is used for processing parts of electronic products, such as cell phone shells, radiators, etc.
Overall, CNC milling services have been widely used in aerospace, automotive, mold and die, electronics, and many other industries.
3. How does CNC milling work?
CNC milling is a method of controlling a machine tool for milling through a computer program. In CNC milling, through the pre-written program, the computer is used to control the movement of the machine tool to achieve accurate milling of the workpiece.
The specific process is as follows：
Design the part and process
Writing CNC progra
Design the part and process
Setting up the milling machine
Produce parts
Design the part and process :
Before carrying out CNC milling, it is first necessary to design the parts and determine the machining process, including: cutting path, cutting speed, feed speed and other parameters.
Writing CNC program:
Use special CNC programming software to write CNC programs according to the designed parts and process requirements. The CNC program includes: tool path, cutting parameters, coordinate axis movement and other instructions.
Setting up the milling machine:
Clamp the workpiece on the CNC milling machine and make sure that the relative position of the workpiece and the tool is accurate. Adjust fixtures, tools and table to ensure accuracy and stability of machining.
Produce parts:
Start the CNC milling machine and run the loaded CNC program, the system will automatically control the tool to move on the surface of the workpiece and cut according to the predetermined path. The first few times a larger tool is used first to carve the material and get an approximate shape. Then, changing the tool will help to create a more accurate machined part.
4. Types of CNC Milling
Milling machines range from three to five axes, with five-axis milling machines offering the widest range of motion.
Because five-axis machines can rotate along the A and B axes and move along the x, y, and z axes, this type of CNC milling machine allows you to produce highly complex products.
Of course, for simpler products, a 3- or 4-axis machine would be ideal.
Additionally, we can define two types of CNC milling machines based on whether the cutting tool is positioned horizontally or vertically in relation to the floor. Vertical milling machines are more common and are ideal for quick, simple projects. Horizontal milling machines, however, can easily handle larger projects.
5. How to choose an excellent CNC milling parts manufacturer?
Choosing an excellent manufacturer of precision parts requires consideration from various aspects:
First, does the manufacturer have a strict quality management system?
Secondly, does it have rich industry experience and professional knowledge?
Third, does it use advanced production equipment and technology.
The last point, whether there are professionals to continuously follow up the service.
If you are looking for a manufacturer of precision mechanical parts, please choose Allied, we not only passed iso90001 certification, but also have our own factory, with the company’s strong R & D and technical strength, after years of reliable operation and perfect after-sales service, has gained a lot of customers’ praise. If you have CNC machining needs or questions, please contact us directly, we will give you a satisfactory program reply in the shortest time.
6. What are the common materials used for CNC milling?
Common Materials grade Used in CNC Projects
• Aluminium 2007
• Aluminium 2017
• Aluminium2024
• Aluminium5052
• Aluminium 6060
• Aluminium 6061
• Aluminium6063
• Aluminium6068
• Aluminium 6082
• Aluminium 7075
• Copper E-Cu57 / E-Cu58
• Copper C260
• Copper C360
• Copper C1100
• Copper T27300
• Copper T27600,
• Copper T28200
- C3604
- C3602
- Brass Ms58
- Brass C36000
- H62(C28000, CuZn40)
- H65(C27000, CuZn35)
- H68(C26800, CuZn35)
- Hpb59(C37700, CuZn38Pb2)
- HPb62(C36000,CuZn36Pb3)
- Stainless Steel 303
- Stainless Steel 304
- Stainless Steel 304L
- Stainless Steel 316L
- Stainless Steel 316Ti
- Stainless Steel 416
- Stainless Steel420
- Stainless Steel430
- Marine-grade stainless steel
- Titan Grade 2 / 3.7035
- Titan Grade 5 / 3.7164 / 3.7165 / Ti-6Al-4V
- ABS
- Acrylic
- Industrial PEEK
- Nylon 6 / PA 6
- PC (Polycarbonate)
- PEEK glass-filled
- Polypropylene (PP)
- POM / Delrin acetal
- PTFE / Teflon
- PVDF / Polyvinylidene fluoride
- UHMW PE / Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene
- 4130
- 4140
- 4340
- 40Cr
- 42CrMo
- 25CrMoV
- Q195
- Q215
- Q235/S235JRC
- 1010
- 1015
- 1018
- 1020
- 1045
- 1060
- 1117
- 12L14
- 12L15
- D2
- A2
- O1
Common Materials for CNC Machining
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer known for its toughness and impact resistance. It is commonly used in applications such as prototyping, automotive parts, enclosures, and consumer goods. ABS offers good strength and durability, is easy to machine, is available in various colors, and is cost-effective.
ACM panel is a lightweight composite material consisting of a thin aluminum sheet bonded to a polyethylene or fire-retardant core. It finds applications in signage, architectural cladding, exhibition displays, and interior design. ACM Panel provides excellent flatness, a high strength-to-weight ratio, weather resistance, and ease of shaping and cutting, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Baltic birch plywood is a type of plywood made from multiple layers of birch veneer. It is known for its strength and durability. It is commonly used in furniture, cabinetry, jigs, and decorative items. Baltic birch plywood offers stability, void-free construction, high strength, good screw-holding ability, and suitability for intricate cuts and engraving.
HDPE is a versatile thermoplastic known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to chemicals. It finds applications in kitchen cutting boards, marine applications, wear strips, and storage containers. HDPE is lightweight, exhibits excellent chemical resistance, has low moisture absorption, is easy to machine, and is cost-effective.
MDF is a type of engineered wood product that is manufactured by breaking down residuals of hardwood or softwood into wood fibers. These fibers are then combined with resin and compressed to form a dense and uniform board. MDF finds widespread use in applications such as cabinetry, furniture, signage, and decorative panels. One of its key advantages is the smooth and consistent surface it offers. MDF is also highly machinable, making it easy to shape and carve. Additionally, it is known for its affordability, stability, and suitability for painting and veneering processes.
Polycarbonate is a transparent thermoplastic known for its high impact resistance and clarity. It is used in applications such as protective screens, machine guards, lenses, and electronic components. Polycarbonate exhibits excellent impact resistance, high optical clarity, ease of shaping and forming, and good electrical insulation properties.
CNC routing is commonly employed in cutting and shaping foam materials such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyurethane foam. Foam is frequently used in packaging, insulation, theatrical props, and architectural modeling.
UHMW is a tough and abrasion-resistant thermoplastic with a high molecular weight. It finds applications in bearings, wear strips, conveyor components, and chute liners. UHMW offers excellent abrasion resistance, self-lubrication, low friction, and high impact strength.
Aluminum is a lightweight metal known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and conductivity. It is commonly used in machine parts, common household hardware, automotive components, and enclosures. Aluminum provides a high strength-to-weight ratio, good thermal and electrical conductivity, and corrosion resistance.
Brass is an alloy composed of copper and zinc, known for its attractive appearance and easy machinability. It is used in applications such as decorative items, jewelry, hardware, and musical instruments. Brass also offers good corrosion resistance and antimicrobial properties.
CNC routing is used to process composite materials, including fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), and other composite laminates. CFRP exhibits high strength and stiffness, is light for its strength, has excellent fatigue resistance, and low thermal expansion. This material is widely used in the aerospace, automotive, marine, and sports industrie
In addition to the common materials mentioned above, CNC machining can actually process special materials such as silicone, rubber, ceramics and so on. Of course, the choice of material finally depends on the specific requirements of the part and the machining capability of the machine tool.
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