Advantages Of CNC Milling

CNC milling is the machining process that implements computerized controls and cutting devices for, in a selective manner, removing material from a work piece and create a custom-designed component. A CNC milling machine has a table that automatically shifts (or rotates) the work piece on various planes in order for the cutting tool to work on it.

Dissimilar to manual lathes, a CNC milling machine operates by converting a 3D CAD model into fixed computer guidelines, which is then used to establish the device’s actions and movements automatically.

The following are just some of the advantages of CNC milling:

#1 Precision

One of the greatest advantages of utilizing CNC milling machines is that they are able to create components precisely to specification. Since CNC mills depend on computer guidelines to fabricate parts, they stop the potential of human error common in hand operated machines. Meaning you can precisely create complex parts while meeting tolerances as tight as 0.004mm.

#2 Fast and Efficient

Conventional milling machines usually require an operator to change cutting tools by hand subject to the cutting operation to be carried out. Besides this being time-consuming, it is also ineffective as final results are based on the operator’s discretion.

CNC mills feature rotating platforms that can hold up to 30 different cutting tools. These are automatically swapped on the spindle throughout machining operations, enabling cutting operations to be carried out quickly and efficiently. Using CNC mills, you can have your parts ready in a couple of hours, while conventional techniques could take days (or weeks) to finish.

#3 Wide Range of Material Options

A CNC mill boasts compatibility with a broad range of materials, comprises plastics, metals, and composites. Provided that you have plenty of the material available, CNC mills are going to have no issue machining it.

#4 Affordability

There is precision, speed, and a ton of other advantages that can be discussed all day; however, nothing beats its affordability, especially for those looking to depend on 3rd-party manufacturers. CNC milling is one of the most budget-friendly present-day manufacturing processes. Therefore, a CNC milled part could cost you less than a similar 3D printed part.

Disadvantages of CNC Milling

The following are just some of the disadvantages of CNC milling:

#1 There is More Material Waste in CNC Milling

CNC milling is a reductive manufacturing method-it begins with a block of material and cuts away sections of it for creating the finished component. Consequently, there is additional material wasted in CNC milling than in layered manufacturing methods, like 3D printing.

#2 There are not Enough Qualified Technicians

Although a lot of the entire milling process is automatic, CNC milling still necessitates professionally qualified technicians or engineers to program the machines, determine requirements and oversee the mills so that high-quality parts are continually produced.

There are not many machine shops that can boast highly qualified CNC mill technicians; therefore, there have been a lot of scary stories concerning low-quality machined parts.

What are the Applications for CNC Milling?

Because of the high precision that CNC technology provides, CNC mills are used in a wide variety of sectors, comprising the electronics, medical, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

In the aerospace sector, they are used to manufacture bushings, manifolds, and landing gear for aerospace components.

The medical sector heavily depends on CNC milling machinery to create prostheses, medical equipment, and other FDA-approved medical tools. In addition, CNC mills are used for creating heat sinks, housings for amplifiers, and other electronics components used in the electronics sector.

East Valley Precision – Custom Machinery Specialists

East Valley Precision offers custom CNC Machining in the Chandler, Arizona and surrounding areas. When you need precision CNC machining and milling contact East Valley Precision. Call us at 480-288-6601 for more information or use our form for a quote.