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As one of the broad functions ofCNC precision machining, CNC milling is an important technology widely used in modern manufacturing. When producing complex parts,CNC milling is an essential process. This process helps to manufacture products in many industries. Precision parts, if you are not familiar with it, then this blog of Longsheng Technology website will introduce you to the concept, application andworking principle of milling processso that you can better understand and master this technology.

What is CNC Milling?

CNC milling is a process that usesCNC machine toolsand computer control systems that are independent of human operation to remove material by moving rotating cutting tools relative to the workpiece to produce custom-designed parts or products. The basic principle is that the processor formulates the processing technology, selects the processing parameters, and inputs the compiled processing program into the CNC device. The servo motor controls the relative movement of the tool and the workpiece according to a certain trajectory, thereby realizing the cutting of the workpiece and automatic processing.

How Does CNC Milling Work?

TheCNC milling processcan be clearly divided into the following steps, each of which includes key operations:

Process Flow	Key Operations
Design product drawings	Based to the product requirements using computer-aided design software (such as CAD). The dimensions and positions of the holes and grooves to be milling are clearly marked on the drawings.
Select the cutting tool	Select the appropriate milling cutter head according to the material and processing requirements of the product. For example, for the aluminum alloy material, the rigid carbide thread drilling and milling cutter can be selected.
Design the cutting path	Determine the cutting path and processing sequence according to the product drawings. This helps to optimize the processing process and improve the processing efficiency.
Set the machine tool parameters	Set the appropriate cutting speed, feed speed and cutting depth according to the material hardness and product requirements. For example, for aluminum alloy materials, the milling cutter speed can be set to 2,000 r/min, the cutting speed is 314m / min, the milling feed is 0.06mm / tooth, etc.
Install the workpiece	Attach the workpiece to be processed on the milling machine to ensure stability and positioning accuracy. This can be achieved by using fixtures or other tooling equipment.
Processing operation	After the workpiece is stable and the machine parameters are set correctly, start the machine and start milling. In the processing process, it is necessary to closely monitor the cutting situation and timely adjust the cutting parameters to ensure the processing quality.
Processing inspection	After milling, inspect the finish surface. This includes dimensional inspection, surface quality inspection, etc. to ensure that the processing quality meets the requirements.
Post processing	If a problem is found in the processing inspection, improve or grind accordingly until the requirements are met.

What are the types of CNC milling machines?

CNC milling machinescan be divided into many types according to their structure, function and processing capabilities. Focus on 3-axis CNC milling machines, 5-axis CNC milling machines and small CNC milling machines:

3-Axis CNC Milling Machines

A 3-axis CNC milling machine is a basic CNC milling equipment. Its main features include:

• Structure:The three-axis CNC milling machine uses three coordinate axes (X, Y, Z) for positioning and control. The X-axis is the transverse direction of the milling machine, the Y-axis is the longitudinal direction of the milling machine, and the Z-axis is the up-and-down direction of the milling machine.
• Processing scope:Three-axis CNC milling machine is suitable for processing simple geometric shapes, especially for the processing of flat and two-dimensional workpieces.
• Working principle:The computer program controls the precise movement of the tool in three directions to achieve milling of the workpiece.
• Advantages:The three-axis CNC milling machine has high processing accuracy and efficiency, and the operation is relatively simple and easy to master.

5-Axis CNC Milling Machines

5-axis CNC milling machineshave higher flexibility and processing capabilities than three-axis CNC milling machines. Its main features include:

• Structure:5-axis CNC milling machines usually include three linear axes (X, Y, Z) and two rotary axes (such as A, B, or C axes), which can work together to achieve more complex machining operations.
• Processing scope:5-axis CNC milling machine is suitable for processing complex geometric shapes, such as curved surfaces, variable bevels, etc. It can process multiple faces in one setup without changing fixtures or repositioning the workpiece.
• Working principle:The computer program controls the precise movement and rotation of the tool in five directions to achieve complex milling of the workpiece.
• Advantages:5-axis CNC milling machines have higher processing accuracy and efficiency, and can reduce positioning errors and processing time. At the same time, it can also process deep cavities with short tools, effectively improving system rigidity, reducing the number of tools, and reducing production costs.

Small CNC Milling Machines

The small CNC milling machine is a CNC milling equipment with compact structure and easy operation. Its main features include:

• Structure:Small CNC milling machines usually adopt a vertical structure, occupy a small area, and are suitable for use in places with limited space.
• Processing scope:Small CNC milling machines are suitable for processing small parts and complex-shaped parts. Through programming control, the tool can move simultaneously in multiple directions to complete the processing of complex-shaped parts.
• Working principle:The working principle of a small CNC milling machine is similar to that of a three-axis CNC milling machine. Both of them control the precise movement of the tool in a specified direction through a computer program.
• Advantages:Small CNC milling machines have a high degree of automation, which can reduce workers' labor intensity and improve production efficiency. At the same time, its compact structure and easy operation make small CNC milling machines more flexible when processing small parts and complex-shaped parts. In addition, small CNC milling machines are also widely used in the fields of education and scientific research, and can be used for classroom auxiliary teaching and teaching training of CNC technology.

CNC Milling Materials: What Can Be Milled?

As a high-tech processing method for precision hardware parts, CNC milling can use many types of materials. Here are some common CNC milling materials:

Aluminium

Aluminum is a widely used metal materialwith light weight, high strength, easy processing and good corrosion resistance. Aluminum has a density of about 2.7g / cm³, only a third of copper and steel, but the strength is very high. Moreover, aluminum has excellent electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity, so that it is widely used in electric power, electronics, heat exchanger and other fields.

There are many kinds of common aluminum alloy and its common aluminum alloy, such as 2024,5052,6061,7075 and so on.2024 aluminum alloy high strength, good fatigue resistance, often used in aircraft structure; 5052 aluminum alloy good corrosion resistance, often used in the manufacture of oil tank, pipe, etc.; 6061 aluminum alloy welding, processing, often used in the manufacture of body structure; 7075 aluminum alloy high strength, often used in manufacturing high strength parts.

Steel

A variety of steel alloys can be used for CNC machining. Steel alloy can be selected if parts require higher formability and greater weldability, such as gears, shafts, or certain high-stress applications. Stainless steel, low carbon steel, alloy steel and tool steel are the main types of CNC steel. Stainless steel is highly recommended when parts require high strength, high ductility, excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance. In addition, stainless steel has good workability and is easy to weld and polish. Low carbon steel (low carbon steel) is appropriate when the cost plays an important role and the application is for general use. Carbon steel also has good weldability and corrosion resistance. Alloy steel and TiSCO are the exceptions when you consider higher hardness, greater stiffness, and heat resistance.

Copper

Copper is a popular CNC machining materialwith unique properties, including excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. Because to its excellent electrical conductivity, product engineers consider copper and its alloys ideal for electrical and electronic components. Similarly, copper alloy is the perfect CNC material for jewelry production because of its excellent beauty. Wire, jewelry production, and magnetic equipment are typical applications of copper.
Brass, bronze and copper are indispensable forCNC machining materials. Brass and bronze are common copper alloys with unique properties. Brass is composed of copper and zinc. It is a very soft metal that can be processed without lubrication. It has excellent electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance and workability. Manufacturers often use brass for applications that do not require high strength, such as the manufacture of low-strength fasteners, electrical equipment, consumer goods, and piping equipment.
Bronze, on the other hand, consists of copper, tin, and other composite elements. It is strong and durable, and has a strong corrosion resistance. Bronze has excellent workability, which is perfect for machining precision parts such as bearings and gears. In addition, the addition of aluminum and phosphorus can improve the impact resistance, toughness, and strength of bronze.

Titanium

This CNC metal is very strong and light in weight, with an excellent strength to weight ratio. The corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity and biocompatibility of titanium make it compatible with CNC machining in the biomedical industry. Titanium is compatible with welding, passivation and anodizing processes for enhanced appearance and protection. Although titanium has poor electrical conductivity, it has good thermal conductivity and high melting point.
In addition, titanium is well suited for manufacturing high-performance mechanical parts in the medical, military, aerospace and automotive industries. More noteworthy, titanium is suitable for manufacturing cutting tools forCNC machine tools.

Plastics

Plastics are also very popular option for CNC machining because of its wide choices, relatively lower price, and significantly faster machining time needed. According to different characteristics and uses, plastics are divided into many species, such as POM, ABS, PVC, etc. Plastics are characterized by small density, high strength and strong plasticity, and are widely used in electronics, automobile manufacturing, environmental protection and other fields.

Ceramic

Ceramics is another common non-metallic material, with the advantages of high strength, high hardness, high wear resistance, corrosion resistance and high temperature resistance. Among them, alumina ceramics, silicon nitride ceramics, silicon carbide ceramics and other types are common in industrial manufacturing, electronics, aerospace and other fields.

What is the difference between CNC milling and CNC turning?

CNC milling andCNC turningare two common cutting processes that differ significantly in many aspects. The following table is a specific comparison of these two processes:

	CNC Milling	CNC Turning
Method	Rotates cutting tool at pre-set RPM	Rotates workpiece at pre-set RPM
Result	Flat or sculptured	Cylindrical or conical
Machine	Milling machine	Lathe
Tool	Multi-point cutting tool	Single point turning tool
Contact	Cutting tool cuts intermittently during operation	Cutting tool remains in continuous contact withworkpiece during operation
Movement	Workpiece moves	Cutting tool moves
Waste	Produces discontinuous chips	Produces fragmented,discontinuous, or continuouschips

How to choose the right CNC milling service provider?

Corporate expertise and reputation

The first thing to consider whenchoosing a milling companyis the company’s expertise and reputation. Professional companies like Longsheng can usually offer higher quality services because they have the knowledge and experience of handling a variety of complex milling tasks. Also, the company’s reputation is important because it reflects the quality of their work and customer satisfaction. Longsheng is known for its good reputation and high quality service.

Tools and Tricks

The tools and technologies used by companies are also important considerations.Companies like Longsheng that use the latest toolsand technologies can often provide more accurate and efficient milling services. Furthermore, they are more likely to handle a variety of complex milling tasks.

Service and assistance

Excellent customer service and support are also important factors inchoosing a milling company. Companies like Longsheng that provide excellent customer service can ensure that they meet your needs and help with problems. In addition, they also offer personalized solutions to meet your specific needs.

Value and supply time

Finally, price and delivery time are also factors to consider. It is best to choose a company that can provide reasonable prices and fast delivery time, such as Longsheng. Remember, however, that quality and service are often important, so don’t make decisions based on price alone.

FAQs

1.What is meant by CNC milling?

CNC milling is a processin which parts are manufactured using a computer-controlled numerical control machine tool. This process can be milled using a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic and wood.

2.What is the CNC mill process?

First, use computer-aided design software (such as CAD) according to product requirements to clearly mark the size and location of the holes and slots that need to be milled on the drawings. Second, select the appropriate milling cutter head according to the material and processing requirements of the product. For example, for aluminum alloy materials, you can choose a carbide thread drilling and milling cutter.
Third, determine the cutting path and processing sequence according to the product drawings, optimize the processing process, and improve processing efficiency. Fourth, set the machine tool parameters and install the workpiece. After the workpiece is stable and the machine tool parameters are set correctly, start the machine tool and start milling. Final processing inspection. If problems are found in the processing inspection, corresponding improvements or grinding will be carried out until the requirements are met.

3.Where is CNC milling used?

CNC milling can be used to produce various mechanical parts, such as bearing seats, flanges, gears, keyways, etc. By setting appropriate processing parameters, high-precision size and shape requirements can be achieved, and the accuracy and quality of parts processing can be improved. CNC milling in aerospace uses a computer control system to precisely control the motion trajectory of the milling cutter on the workpiece, thereby meeting the requirements of the industry and improving the performance and safety of parts. CNC milling can realize mold manufacturing with complex inner cavity structures and high surface quality requirements. Controlled milling can process lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, etc., to achieve the processing of complex curved surfaces and lightweight designs, and improve the performance and reliability of automotive parts.
4.What type of manufacturing is CNC milling?

CNC milling is a type of subtractive or removable manufacturing. In this manufacturing process, raw materials, such as metal blocks, bars, or sheets, are cut through rotating cutters on a CNC milling machine to remove excess material, resulting in a part or product of the desired shape and size.

Summary

CNC milling is a versatile, high-precision and flexible machining technology. It utilizes computer-controlled and rotating cutting tools to remove material and produce custom-designed parts or products. In the field of mechanical processing, CNC milling has broad application prospects and important value.

Disclaimer

The content on this page is for reference only.Longshengdoes not make any express or implied representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or validity of the information. No performance parameters, geometric tolerances, specific design features, material quality and type or workmanship should be inferred as to what a third party supplier or manufacturer will deliver through the Longsheng Network. It is the responsibility of the buyerseeking a quote for partsto determine the specific requirements for those parts.Pleasecontact usfor moreinformation.

Longsheng Team

This article was written by multiple Longsheng contributors. Longsheng is a leading resource in the manufacturing sector, withCNC machining,sheet metal fabrication,3D printing,injection molding,metal stamping, and more.