CNC milling vs. CNC turning, which one is right for me?

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is a widely used manufacturing process for making parts, including but not limited to the automotive industry. The development of CNC was aimed at replacing manual forming processes due to its reliability and precision in the production of the final product. Additionally, it significantly reduces processing time.

CNC machining is the process of producing "3D models" by selectively cutting materials to create specified shapes or tools from 3D designs. CNC milling and CNC turning are further types of the main process, commonly referred to as CNC machining.

We will discuss the feasibility of these two types in this article.

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CNC Milling

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) milling is generally a metal manufacturing process; however, plastics can also be machined. CNC milling uses a computer to control the cutting tool. The tool then cuts material from the workpiece to produce the desired shape/model.

The cutting tool is the main working part of the CNC mill and can move on three axes or more. Typically, the workpiece remains stationary, but modern CNC mills can tilt or rotate the workpiece to achieve better cutting angles. This feature can also speed up the process as machinists do not need to reorient the workpiece when milling complex designs.

CNC milling is a fairly straightforward process, which is why it is the most widely used production process in the metal industry. From prototypes to final designs, everything is usually completed on the CNC mill.

From the authorIn the long run, CNC milling is useful for industrialists dealing with multifunctional and complex-shaped products. This type of mechanical processing is an excellent method for producing such items.

CNC Milling Specialization

CNC milling has the following characteristics:

Production Capacity

The production capacity of CNC milling is best suited for batch processing. In short, CNC milling equips businesses that produce small batches of parts in a single run. Further production capabilities of CNC milling machines include a range of operations, such as:

Thermal

MechanicalChemical Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Material Consumption

CNC milling machines are designed to save and minimize material usage. Compared to CNC turning, the material consumption of CNC milling methods is significantly reduced. In the long run, this directly means lower material costs and better waste management in the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) department.

Cutting Tools

Milling does not necessarily require the use of specific tools. You can perform various operations with a completely different set of cutting tools. This is not only better than lathes but also makes them more efficient in their work.

Furthermore, you can produce complex-shaped tools on a milling machine, but you will be limited by the lathes that are often used in turning operations.CNC milling can produce a wide variety of parts. It is capable of handling both complex and simple shapes, making it a versatile choice for industrialists. However, this is not the only best thing associated with CNC milling; it has also been proven to be a faster, more economical, and more accurate production operation.

A multitude of parts can be manufactured using milling. For example:

Accessories and gears

Pumps

Innovative components

Engine parts

Surgical instruments and implants

CNC turning

(Note: The term "创始拳" seems to be a typographical error or a mistranslation. If it refers to a specific type of component or part, please provide the correct term for accurate translation.)Unlike CNC milling, CNC turning employs a completely different approach to manufacturing products.

CNC turning is primarily used for the production of round parts and is the preferred choice for cylindrical and conical shapes. Although it is not as common as the previous CNC milling, it is the second most widely used process for manufacturing mechanical parts.

The turning process mainly involves lathes and/or CNC turning centers, which use chucks to rapidly turn the workpiece instead of moving the cutting tool. For this reason, CNC turning cannot handle workpieces that require complex details, although it is much faster when it comes to completing relatively simple cuts. The specialization and advanced technology of modern lathes enable them to machine multiple workpieces on a single lathe.

Workpieces can be held with collets, and multiple tools can be set up for operation. Through turning, operations involving the cutting of material from the outside of the workpiece and drilling holes in its interior can be relatively easily executed.

From the author:

The choice of CNC turning is clear, as it is not as cost-effective as CNC milling; however, the nature of the work that can be easily performed on a turning center or lathe may compel you to undertake it. Be sure to consider the future prospects of your industry before making a decision.

CNC Turning SpecializationThese advantages make CNC turning a better product mix,

Production speed

CNC turning is faster when performing boring, drilling, and forming operations. This allows entrepreneurs to meet deadlines and increase production capacity during the journey. However, complex designs are difficult and take longer to complete.

 

Accuracy

CNC turning is more accurate and can complete operations with precise machining. Therefore, it is trusted by many important parts with circular surfaces, such as rollers, bullets, gears, and drill bits.

 

Adaptability

CNC turning is adaptable and can be interconnected with CNC milling to meet industrial requirements. It can also produce parts for other mechanical parts, from bolts and nuts to torque and turbines. However, backward compatibility and asymmetric design are crucial for the beneficial effects of this interconnection.Product Shape

Producing parts with circular designs using milling and milling processes is very challenging, not to mention that they often do not meet the required dimensions and must be finished.

On the other hand, CNC turning can handle these tasks perfectly. Therefore, it can be used to manufacture some of the most important parts in industry. Such as,

Nozzles

Nuts and bolts

Bullets and firearms

Beams and pipes

Ball joints

Rollers

Circular turbinesBucket

 

So, which process is suitable for you?

 

Now that you know what each of these processes can and cannot do, it becomes easier to make a decision.

However, to give you a final perspective, you should remember that CNC milling is generally considered the most recommended method for producing parts with complex shapes, while CNC turning is equally suitable for simpler circular shapes. Nevertheless, you can also use these two processes sequentially, as there may be scenarios that require both operation processes.

If you are still indecisive and do not have a clear idea, it is a good idea to hire a mechanic and let him make the decision for you.