What is CNC Turning?

The first part of CNC turning is “CNC,” which stands for “computer numerical control” and is commonly associated with the automation of machining processes.

“Turning” is the machining term for a process where the workpiece is rotated while a single-point cutting tool removes material to match the final part design.

Therefore, CNC turning is an industrial machining process controlled by a computer and carried out on equipment capable of turning: a lathe or a turning center. This process can take place with the axis of rotation in the horizontal or vertical orientation. The latter being used primarily for workpieces with a large radius relative to their length.

Whatever you need, we can machine a variety of materials, including stainless steel, brass, plastics and titanium.
Our machines can turn parts from 0.5mm to 65mm in diameter from bar, and up to 300mm in diameter for billet work. This gives you plenty of scope for creating small, complex components and larger assemblies.

 

1.What Shapes Can CNC Turning Make?
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Turning is a highly versatile machining process capable of making a wide range of profiles depending on the turning process used. The functionality of lathes and turning centers allows for straight turning, taper turning, external grooving, threading, knurling, boring, and drilling.

Generally, lathes are limited to simpler turning operations, like straight turning, external grooving, threading, and boring operations. The tool turret on turning centers allows the turning center to complete all the operations of a lathe as well as more complex operations, such as drilling off the axis of rotation.

CNC turning can produce a wide range of shapes with axial symmetry, like cones, cylinders, disks, or a combination of those shapes. Some turning centers are even capable of polygonal turning, using special rotating tools to create shapes like a hexagon along the axis of rotation.

Although the workpiece is generally the only object rotating, the cutting tool can move too! Tooling can move on 1, 2, or even up to 5 axes to produce precision shapes. Now, you can imagine all the shapes you can achieve using a block of metal, wood, or plastic.

CNC turning is a widespread manufacturing method, so it isn’t hard to spot some everyday objects we use that are manufactured using this process. Even the device you are using to read this blog has screws or bolts and nuts produced by a CNC turning machine, not to mention applications as advanced as aerospace or automotive parts.

 

2.Should You Use CNC Turning?
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CNC turning is a cornerstone in the manufacturing industry. If your design is axially symmetric, this could be the right manufacturing process for you to create precision parts, either for mass production or in small batches.

Nevertheless, if you feel that your designed parts are too large, heavy, non-symmetrical, or have other complex geometries, you may want to consider another manufacturing process, such as CNC milling or 3D printing.

If, however, you are considering using CNC turning, you should check out our turning services page or reach out to one of our service experts to learn more about your options for products manufactured by our efficient, high-precision CNC turning process!

 


Post time: Dec-21-2022