Most designers and buyers have heard of CNC processing. Some people have also heard of "precision". But those looking for these services - especially those considering upgrading from manual processing - may not understand the true meaning of each term. Or what they get from precision machine products.

If you need to optimize mission-critical components, I'm glad to know: what is CNC processing equipment? What is precision machining? Is there even a difference?

With this knowledge, you can decide whether your project needs a precision machining workshop to bring your idea to the end.

What is precision machining?

OEM (original equipment manufacturer) specifies precision machining to convert materials. A precision mechanic is a person who uses raw materials (usually metal) and shaves them into the desired shape.

Precision machining uses computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) or computer-aided design (CAD). This provides the most accurate measurement and precise specification cutting. Precision machining is used to make a series of objects:

Surgical instruments

Aerospace Components

Solar and wind energy components

Although drilling machines are combined with lathes, the latest precision machining technology also involves high-speed robot technology.

Processing history

Processing dates back to 700 BC. Unfortunately, there were no buttons to press at that time - Manual lathes were the preferred tool. In the late 1700s, steam power made things easier. By increasing steam, machining became automated, and the industrial revolution was comprehensively promoted by mass production. Large-scale machine tool manufacturing has upgraded steel-making processes everywhere, as well as many other innovations.

Since then, modern machining has developed from the use of punch cards in the 1940s to the actual computer technology we use today for programming.

How does CNC machining work?

To maintain tight tolerances in today's manufacturing, many companies turn to computer numerical control (CNC) equipment. CNC processing is a basic process that is processed by machine rather than manually.

In this type of machining, the operator uses CAD or CAM software to generate files read by CNC machines. From here on, the machine processes the actual processing mechanically.

Types of CNC machine tools

In addition to the basic CNC machining and precision machining settings, there are other more professional machine types. To optimize your project, consult the manufacturer for its functions and recommendations.

The functions of various types of CNC machine tools include:

Three-axis NC machining

CNC milling

CNC turning

Multi-axis NC machining

Indexing CNC machining 3+2 axis

Indexing 5-axis CNC milling

5-axis NC machining

Continuous 5-axis CNC milling

Milling CNC center

Turning and milling

The two most common uses of CNC machining are turning and milling.

Turning uses cutting tools such as later stages to reduce the diameter of the surface in a cylindrical manner. Turning is very suitable for prototype and small-batch production.

Milling use milling cutters or multi-point tools to create flat or stepped surfaces. CNC milling is usually the most suitable auxiliary operation to add finishing function to customized design.

CNC processing/precision processing capability

When you choose the next level of processing, please consider the order quantity you need. Some suppliers are happy to process a version of 1000 parts, or even just a prototype, to finally carry out mass production. The processing workshop may only need a larger volume.

Another benefit of some suppliers is that internal tool manufacturers are ready to deal with any shape design. We always suggest that you allow some flexibility in your design - ultimately, manufacturers will always know best what is feasible and what is not suitable for production time.

Materials used in precision machining

With the help of precision machining technology, many different types of materials can be used - much more than some other processes (such as powder metallurgy).

The ability to grind machines, sewing machines, and milling machines to effectively and efficiently convert these raw materials into finished products is the reason why high-precision CNC machining is so popular in many industries.

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