CNC Milling: All You Need to Know

CNC milling is one of the most used and favorable categories of CNC machining. Over the years, companies and industries have adopted this manufacturing technology for producing complex parts.

CNC milling is a computerized process that employs rotating cylindrical cutters to remove the material. The tools continue to cut while creating details, slots, and holes in the material and give it a perfect shape. The process can be done by one or multiple axes and low to high pressure.

Why Should You Consider Sunrise Metal for All Your Milling Projects?

The milling process is one of the most effective and finest methods of CNC machining. Nonetheless, you need to find the proper manufacturer to make the project successful. Choosing the wrong manufacturer will not only result in damaged products, but it can also ruin your reputation.

Sunrise Metal can be the perfect choice for you when you need a successful milling project. Over the years, we have served some of the most significant companies in manufacturing with our quality milling parts.

For one thing, you’ll find a lot of machining shops that specialize in different methods and processes. If you have a good idea of your requirement and design, it’ll make the process easier for you. However, if you’re new to this or have a lesser idea of the machining process, you just might get lost in the bush.

When working with Sunrise Metal, you’re in safe hands. We are one of the leading metal manufacturers in China in CNC machining, prototyping, and die casting. Our one-stop solution ensures that you don’t have to assign multiple manufacturers for different jobs regarding your project. Instead, you can rely on us for an A to Z solution with superior customer service and affordable rates.

CNC Milling Process

Like any other conventional CNC machining, the milling process also uses computerized controls to navigate the cutting tools. Here is the process step by step:

Step 1: Designing

The first step is to design a 2D or 3D model of the parts in CAD files. This is one of the most crucial parts of this process. The designer should make the design as detailed and specific as required while not complicating it too much.

Step 2: Translating the Cad Model Into Code

In this step, the design is translated into CNC-compatible codes, which are readable by the machine. These converted codes will manipulate the cutters to navigate and remove the materials.

Manufacturers can identify any mistakes in the codes and fix them right away. In addition, they can make changes and amend the codes to make them more suitable with their equipment.

Step 3: Machine Setup

Although the machining process is entirely automatic, it still requires some manual interaction. For instance, adjusting the workpiece to the table or checking all the components.

After the setup is done, the operator or machinist examines the program thoroughly and gives the signal to run.

Step 4: Production

This is the final step where actual production begins. The rotating tool or cutter comes in contact with the material. It removes the chips from it and gives it the desired shape.

Benefits of CNC Milling Over Other Technologies

The CNC milling process is a very complex process that can produce critical parts with minimal human interface. As a result, this process can generate complete perfection and zero mistakes for almost any industry.

Let’s look at some of the core advantages:

Highest Precision

The precision and accuracy assured by the milling process are compared to none. So when you need the highest level of precision or parts with utmost accuracy, this is the proper method. As a result, industries like aerospace and medical are highly dependent on it.

Uninterfered and Continuous Production

The milling process is entirely automated and can run automatically for hours, even days. And this ensures higher productivity and faster production rates.

Requires Low Human Labour

As the complete process is computer-controlled, there is less need for human labor. A few machinists can operate a large volume of milling production at ease. This allows manufacturers to produce parts at a low cost.

High-End Technology

The milling method is constantly evolving and improving. As a result, there are always innovations and discoveries that take place. Today, there are many advanced features and benefits that you can get from this process, which you won’t find in other methods. The high-end technology also enables it to be more capable of machining complex parts of different sizes and shapes.

Different Operations of CNC Milling

There are multiple operations of this CNC method. Some of the are below:

Form Milling

Form milling is a popular choice for complex surfaces. Such as a total or half curved surface, round edges, and contours. It can complete the process in a single cut. However, specialized tooling such as convex and concave is necessary for this.

Plain Milling or Surface Milling

This operation is also known as slab mill. The specialty of this process is that it uses a horizontal mill to cut the material. Based on the requirement, plain milling can use either a wide cutter or a narrow cutter.

Narrow cutters are more suitable for deep cuts. On the other hand, suppliers often use wide blades for larger workpieces.

Face Milling

In this operation, the axis of the tool is perpendicular to the workpiece. Also, the cutter has teeth on both sides. This operation mainly exists after plain milling and can provide a more excellent surface finish.

Angular Milling

People also call the process angle milling. As the name suggests, this operation uses an angle relative to the workpiece to remove materials.

Suitable Components for Milling

CNC milling is a widely used machining process for various reasons, including the wide range of suitable components. However, when choosing the material, everything comes down to the requirements and expectations.

Here are some of the materials that are perfectly suitable for this kind of machining:

• Aluminum
• Brass
• Carbon steel
• Copper
• Beryllium
• Stainless steel
• Tool steel
• Nickel
• Mild steel

Conclusion

Now that you know almost everything about CNC milling machining, it’s time for you to choose the right supplier. If you’re looking for high-quality parts, highest precision at an affordable price, get in touch with us now.