What is Plastic Metal Part CNC Machining Service?

CNC， Computer numerical control machining is a widely used manufacturing process. It utilizes automated, high-speed cutting tools to form design patterns from metal or plastic raw materials. Standard CNC machine tools include 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling machines, lathes, and routers. Different machine tools may have different cutting methods for CNC parts - the workpiece can remain stationary while the tool moves, or the tool can remain stationary while the workpiece rotates and moves, and even the cutting tool and workpiece can move together.

 

Skilled mechanics operate CNC machines by programming tool paths based on the geometric shape of the final machined parts. The geometric information of the components is provided by computer-aided design (CAD) models. CNC machine tools are capable of cutting almost all metal alloys and hard plastics with high precision and repeatability, making customized machined parts suitable for almost all industries, including aviation, medical, robotics, electronics, and industry. We provide CNC services and offer customized CNC quotes for over 40 materials, ranging from common aluminum and formaldehyde to advanced titanium and engineering plastics such as PEEK and polytetrafluoroethylene.

CNC machining uses subtractive processes, which means feedstock is machined to its final form by subtracting and removing material. Holes are drilled, lots and pathways are bored, and metal stock is shaped into new material with varying tapers, diameters, and shapes.

For subtractive manufacturing, shapes are achieved by the subtraction of material. This contrasts with other types such as additive manufacturing — where materials are added, layered, and deformed to a specified shape. It also contrasts with injection molding where the material is injected in a different state of matter, using a mold, and formed to a specified shape.

CNC machining is versatile — and can be used with various materials, including metals, plastics, wood, glass, foam, and other composite materials. This versatility has helped make CNC machining a popular choice across industries, enabling designers and engineers to fabricate products efficiently and precisely.

CNC machining, which stands for Computer Numerical Control machining, is a manufacturing process that uses computerized controls and precise tools to remove material from a workpiece to create a final part or product. The process involves the following steps:

1. **Design and Programming:** The first step in CNC machining is to create a digital 3D model of the part to be manufactured. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is used for this purpose. Once the design is complete, Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software is used to generate a CNC program that contains instructions for the CNC machine.

2. **Machine Setup:** The CNC machine is set up with the necessary cutting tools and workholding devices (fixtures) to securely hold the workpiece in place during machining. The operator loads the CNC program into the machine's computer, which controls the entire machining process.

3. **Workpiece Loading:** The workpiece, which is typically a raw material such as metal or plastic, is loaded onto the CNC machine's table or chuck. The workpiece is positioned accurately according to the coordinates specified in the CNC program.

4. **Tool Selection:** The appropriate cutting tools, such as drills, end mills, or lathes, are selected based on the specific machining operations required to create the part. The CNC program will include instructions for tool changes as needed.

5. **Machining Process:** Once everything is set up, the CNC machine begins the machining process. The computerized controls precisely guide the cutting tools to remove material from the workpiece following the programmed toolpaths. The cutting tools rotate or move along multiple axes to create the desired shape and features on the workpiece.

6. **Coolant and Chip Management:** During the machining process, coolant or cutting fluid may be used to cool the cutting tools and workpiece, reducing heat and lubricating the cutting area. This helps prevent tool wear and improves surface finish. Chips, the material removed during machining, are managed using chip conveyors or chip augers to keep the work area clean and safe.

7. **Toolpath Optimization:** The CNC program ensures that the cutting tool follows optimal toolpaths to efficiently remove material while maintaining dimensional accuracy and surface finish.

8. **Quality Control:** Throughout the machining process, quality control checks are performed to verify dimensions and ensure the final part adheres to the required tolerances and specifications.

9. **Finishing Operations:** After the primary machining process is complete, secondary operations like deburring, polishing, or surface treatments may be applied to achieve the desired final appearance and surface finish.

10. **Unloading the Finished Part:** Once the machining is complete, the finished part is removed from the CNC machine. The CNC operator inspects the part for quality and prepares it for any additional post-processing or assembly if required.

CNC machining offers precision, repeatability, and the ability to produce complex parts with high accuracy. The process is widely used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, electronics, and more, to manufacture a wide range of components and products.