CNC milling

What is CNC milling?

The manufacturing process of milling involves removing material from a starting piece to create a final or semi-finished shape. This process is controlled by a CAD file, which we enhance to create a real version of digital designs. In CNC milling, the part to be machined is fixed in a rigid fixture or holder, which is mounted on a table. The table rotates and tilts, enabling two axes of movement. The cutting tools, attached to a rotating spindle, remove the material to create a variety of complex geometric shapes and features on the end product. The significant advantage of a multi-axis milling machine, such as our Haas VF-1 milling unit, is that the table and spindle can be moved independently, providing not only repeatability and accuracy but also versatility.

CNC machines use various tools such as drills, taps, and indexable inserts. With special tools, milling and engraving work can also be performed on conventional CNC lathes. Programming allows movements to be repeated as many times as needed in CNC turning, which facilitates the mass production of components. Feeding and removal systems increase efficiency and productivity.

CNC milling is a popular method for producing metal and plastic parts with high precision. This is because it allows for high repeatability and efficiency in the mass production of components. There are various types of CNC milling machines, such as vertical milling machines, horizontal milling machines, 5-axis milling machines, and portal milling machines. Depending on the application and requirements, different tool changing systems, spindle speeds, and machining concepts can be used.

By programming the movements that are normally performed manually in conventional milling, they can be repeated as many times as needed in CNC milling. This achieves high precision and repeatability, making it easier to mass-produce parts. Additionally, the use of feeding and removal systems in CNC milling can make the processes even more efficient and productive.

Another advantage of CNC milling is the ability to work on complex geometries and contours that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with conventional milling machines. The CNC technology also allows for quick and easy adaptation to new production orders, as the programs can be adjusted quickly and easily.

Our CNC milling process consists of three steps: 

1. CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design. It is a software technology that enables users to design and create virtual 2D and 3D models of objects. CAD software is widely used in various industries, including architecture, engineering, product design, and manufacturing. With CAD software, designers can create precise and accurate models that can be modified and optimized before being sent to CNC machines for production. 
2. CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) is the process of translating a CAD design into instructions that a CNC machine can understand and execute. This includes determining the tool path, selecting the appropriate cutting tools, and determining the optimal cutting speeds and feeds for the material being machined. CAM software uses a combination of 3D modeling and computer programming to generate these instructions, which are then sent to the CNC machine to execute the milling process.
3. CNC milling involves using computer-controlled machines to remove material from a workpiece to create the desired shape. The process begins with CAD (computer-aided design) where a 3D model is created, followed by CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) where the model is translated into a series of instructions that the milling machine can understand. Finally, the machine uses these instructions to accurately and efficiently cut away material from the workpiece, resulting in the finished part. CNC milling is ideal for creating complex geometries and producing parts with high precision and accuracy. 

Precision CNC milling offers several advantages over conventional milling techniques. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to achieve a high degree of accuracy and consistency in the production of complex parts and components. CNC milling machines can operate around the clock, providing high productivity and throughput.

Another advantage is the ability to produce parts with very tight tolerances. CNC milling machines are capable of producing parts with tolerances as tight as a few microns, allowing for the manufacture of high-precision components that meet even the most demanding specifications.

CNC milling machines are also highly flexible and can be used to produce parts from a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, composites, and more. They are also capable of producing parts with complex geometries and intricate details, making them ideal for a wide range of applications across a variety of industries.

In addition to these benefits, CNC milling machines are also highly reliable and require minimal maintenance. They can be programmed to perform a wide range of operations, including drilling, tapping, boring, and more, which helps to increase efficiency and reduce production times.

Ability to achieve consistency in the manufacturing process. With conventional milling machines, it can be difficult to ensure that each part is identical, especially when producing large quantities. However, CNC machines are programmed to follow the same process each time, ensuring that each part is produced with the same level of precision and accuracy. This can be especially important in industries where quality control is critical, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing. Consistency in the manufacturing process also reduces the likelihood of errors and defects, ultimately resulting in cost savings and increased productivity.

Overall, precision CNC milling offers a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for the production of complex parts and components, providing a range of benefits that can help companies to stay competitive in today's fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Plastics material for CNC milling and CNC turning

Plastics are a popular material for CNC machining through milling and turning. These processes can accurately and efficiently produce complex shapes and geometries.

In plastic milling, a workpiece is mounted onto a milling machine and processed using special milling tools. Milling allows for precise control of the size and shape of the end product while providing a high surface finish. A variety of plastics can be milled, including PVC, ABS, nylon, polycarbonate, polyamide, and many others.

If you want to have plastic parts milled or turned, it is important to choose an experienced manufacturer who has the necessary skills and knowledge to produce high-quality parts. It is also important to choose the right material for your application to ensure that your parts meet the requirements.

Overall, plastics offer many advantages for CNC machining through milling and turning. With the right choice of material and proper CNC manufacturing techniques, highly precise and high-quality plastic parts can be produced that meet the requirements of a variety of applications.

What are the applications of CNC milling parts?

Thanks to our comprehensive capabilities and highly precise approach, we are able to produce customized milled parts for various industries, including industrial, metalworking, artisanal, construction equipment manufacturing, and agriculture. We have extensive expertise, modern technologies, and an advanced machinery fleet that enables us to manufacture even complex objects, regardless of the size of the production series. We are capable of processing a variety of materials such as steel, aluminum, and brass.

What kind of materials can we CNC mill at our facility? 

Although it is theoretically possible to mill any stable and solid material, we offer a selection of raw materials, including hard plastics and aluminum, various types of steel, brass, copper, and other alloys. Please note that some types of hardened steel may be too hard for CNC milling and require special cutting tools and longer processing times. Soft elastomers or plastics may also not be suitable as they cannot be held in a fixed position or may change shape under the pressure of the cutting tool.

Metal and aluminum CNC milling are important manufacturing processes for the production of parts and components in various industries. CNC milling machines enable precise machining and reproduction of metal and aluminum parts.

During CNC milling of metal and aluminum, the workpiece is mounted on a milling machine and processed with special milling tools. Milling allows for precise control of the size and shape of the end product, while providing a high surface finish. Aluminum alloys such as 6061 or 7075, as well as various metals such as stainless steel, copper, brass, and others can be milled.

The use of metal and aluminum milling has increased in many industries, such as the automotive industry, aerospace, medical technology, and many others. CNC centers are particularly well-suited for metal and aluminum machining as they offer high precision and repeatability.

One of the biggest challenges when milling metal and aluminum is achieving a high surface finish. This can be achieved through the use of special milling tools and strategies. The choice of the right tool depends on the material and the specific application.

It is important that metal and aluminum parts for CNC milling are produced by an experienced manufacturer. An experienced manufacturer has the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure that the parts meet specific requirements and standards.

Overall, CNC milling of metal and aluminum is an important process for producing precise and high-quality parts. With the right CNC manufacturing technique and the selection of the right tool, metal and aluminum parts can be produced that meet the requirements of a variety of applications.