CNC Machining
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What is CNC Machining?
CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses rotating computer-controlled cutting tools like drills, end mills, and turning tools to remove material from a solid block of material, thereby shaping the part.
Digital design files direct the CNC machines how to cut the block (also known as the “workpiece”) and multiple machines can use the same design file at the same time, which greatly increases the speed of the production process.
CNC machining is a viable option for manufacturing parts with a range of materials, from plastic and metal to wood, fiberglass, and more.
CNC machining production
We’re proud to offer a number of traditional manufacturing methods, including CNC machining. We use lathe-, router-, mill-, and drill-based CNC machining equipment. Learn more about the different CNC machines here.
General process information
3-axis milling | 5-axis milling | Turning |
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Max. part size | • 2000 x 1200 x 500 mm • 78.7 x 47.2 x 19.6 in | • 2000 x 1200 x 500 mm • 78.7 x 47.2 x 19.6 in | • Ø 350 x 600 mm • Ø 13.8 x 23.6 in |
Min. feature size | • Ø 0.50 mm • Ø 0.019 in | • Ø 0.50 mm • Ø 0.019 in | • Ø 0.50 mm • Ø 0.019 in |
Tolerances | • Standard (default): +/- 0.005 in for metal and +/- 0.010 in for plastics • Fine: +/- 0.002 in for metal and +/- 0.005 in for plastics • Custom: Requires 2D drawing. Reviewed case by case. |
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Lead time | As low as 8 days for less than 50 parts | As low as 10 days for less than 50 parts | As low as 8 days for less than 50 parts |
Our team of engineers can help optimize existing designs across manufacturing processes, including CNC machining, 3D printing (additive manufacturing), injection molding, and cast urethane.
Materials used in CNC Machining applications
Plastic | Aluminum | Stainless Steel | Other steel | Other metal |
| ABS | 6061 | 303 | Mild steel | Brass |
| Nylon 6 | 6061 - T6 | 304 | Alloy steel | Copper |
| Acetal (Delrin) | 6082 | 316 | Tool steel | Titanium |
| Polycarbonate | 7075 | 2205 Duplex | Inquire for additional options | |
| PVC | 17-4 | |||
| HDPE | 420 | |||
| PTFE (Teflon) | ||||
| PEEK | ||||
| G-10 | ||||
| Nylon 30%GF | ||||
| UHMW |
CNC FINISHING AND POST-PROCESSING OPTIONS |
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| As machined (standard) | Bead blasting | Polishing | Heat treating |
| Anodizing | Brushing | Screen printing | Passivating |
| Powder coating | Painting | Engraving | Plating |
GEt A QUOTE FOR CNC SERVICES FROM FAST RADIUS.
Achieved a 95% first pass yield.
Made possible with Fast radius
Every day we’re working with the world’s leading product manufacturers to make the parts that matter most to their businesses.
Common CNC machining Applications
CNC machining is often used to produce industrial hardware products in a subtractive manner from metal or plastic.
Tooling
Make complicated cuts at various angles.
Niche manufacturing processes
Cut durable metal products that alternative processes can’t create.
Medium- to high-volume production
Cost-effective for production runs in the hundreds and thousands.
Metal fabrication
Safe and effective way to meet the demand for high-quality metal parts with exceptional tight tolerance.
CNC machining ADVANTAGES AND CHALLENGES
Because CNC machining doesn’t require the creation of expensive molds, manufacturers can begin production far sooner than they can with other processes. CNC machining is highly automated, enabling production both during and outside work hours with minimal input from human workers. What’s more, multiple CNC machines can work from the same design, simultaneously producing identical parts — ultimately shortening production lead times and saving on costs.
ADVANTAGES
- Excellent mechanical properties
- Established technology
- Wide variety of materials
- Scalability
- Consistency and precision
CHALLENGES
- Unused material
- Limited part geometry
- Higher initial cost
CNC machining resources
Learn more about the CNC machining services we offer at the Fast Radius resource center.
