Machined parts are used everywhere and the reason is simple: CNC machining is suitable for a range of metals and plastics and machined parts get fabricated quickly & affordably with no tooling required. Carry on with our CNC machining parts guide and learn everything about the manufacturing of CNC parts.

With MDA, you get machined parts and prototypes at fair prices with short lead times. Furthermore, we have experience working with clients from various industries and use precise CNC machining parts that are ideal for the industry.

Table Of Contents:

  1. CNC Machined Parts and Components
  2. CNC Machining Techniques and Processes
  3. Advantages of CNC Machined Parts
  4. CNC Machined Part Materials
  5. Applications of CNC Machined Parts
  6. MDA’s Role in CNC Machining Precision

 

Let’s start. 

CNC Machined Parts and Components

CNC machined parts and components are precise, intricate pieces made using computer-controlled machines. These machines follow specific instructions to cut and shape materials, creating accurate and consistent parts. This gets used in creating components for industries such as aerospace and automotive. 

The processes include CNC drilling, milling, turning, and grinding to get the right shapes and finishes based on the designs. Machinists love using CNC machined parts because they’re super accurate, reliable, and can meet tight tolerances in manufacturing. We will discuss the processes in the next section. 

CNC Machining Techniques and Processes

CNC machining techniques and processes involve a set of methods used with computer numerical control (CNC) machines to shape and fabricate precision parts. Here are the processes: 

Milling: In this subtractive manufacturing method, a CNC mill is employed to eliminate material from a workpiece, shaping CNC parts with either contoured or flat surfaces. Additionally, common milling operations encompass custom CNC milling, face milling, and end milling, employing diverse milling machines and cutting tools.

Turning: In this metal cutting procedure, the workpiece bar stock rotates as a cutting tool moves along it, shaping material and producing cylindrical forms. Consequently, CNC turning stands as a dependable technique for crafting threads, shafts, and intricate features on the external surfaces of machined components.

Drilling: Utilizing rotating drill bits, the drilling process is employed to generate holes in a workpiece. Moreover, this crucial technique finds widespread use across industries for creating holes of diverse sizes and depths in machined parts and components.

Laser Cutting: Laser cutting employs a high-powered laser beam to either blow, vaporize, or melt material, enabling precise cuts on a workpiece. This technique is well-suited for cutting a variety of materials, including plastic and metal.

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM): Utilizing electrical discharges, this machining technique removes material from a workpiece to achieve a predefined shape. It provides the precision necessary for machining intricate shapes or hard materials.

Waterjet Cutting: Waterjet cutting is a precise machining method where a high-pressure stream of water, sometimes mixed with abrasive particles, is used to cut through materials. Additionally, it’s versatile, suitable for various materials, and allows for intricate and detailed cutting in manufacturing processes.

Broaching: This technique employs a specialized tool known as a broach to precisely cut material. Machinists utilize the broach for crafting intricate internal shapes like splines and keyways in a controlled manner.

Advantages of CNC Machined Parts

Machined parts and components from CNC processes outshine the benefits of both 3D printed and injection moulded counterparts.

Here are the advantages associated with machined parts:

Outstanding Prototypes 

CNC machining techniques provide machined parts and prototypes featuring intricate designs. Moreover, these prototypes are cost-effective due to the ability to produce one-offs, making them ideal for quick replication of sheet metal parts, facilitated by the speed of digital CNC machining. This allows thorough testing before final production. Additionally, the material versatility in machining permits ordering prototypes and parts in different metal alloys or composite plastics, facilitating a comprehensive examination of performance under various factors.

No MOQ

A notable benefit of machined parts is the absence of a minimum order requirement. Additionally, machining from a workpiece bar stock allows cost-effective production of low volumes or one-off parts. This uniqueness of CNC machining ensures high-quality components without the burden of excess inventory, making it ideal for prototyping, low-volume production, and smaller businesses.

Quality 

Machined parts can achieve exceptionally high standards, with the added advantage of customers specifying precise tolerances for the machinist to meet. This allows the machinist or machine operator to dedicate extra time to achieving tight tolerances on specific features. In contrast, while injection molds can be crafted to tight tolerances, maintaining such precision across every individual molding is challenging. Moreover, moldings produced towards the end of the mold’s lifespan may not exhibit the same level of definition as earlier units.

Quicker Lead Times 

CNC machining techniques excel in the rapid production of metal components and plastic parts compared to processes like molding. Furthermore, despite the absence of labor-intensive tooling, CNC machining is highly efficient. Faster machining centers equipped with linear guide rails contribute to quick lead times for machined parts due to the swift, one-step nature of the process.

Surface Finish 

CNC parts achieve elevated surface finishing standards with minimal post-processing requirements. Unlike other methods, machining provides a superior finish by eliminating visible layer lines. This compatibility with various surface finishes ensures CNC machined parts meet design specifications and deliver optimal performance.

 

Also Read: 7 Factors To Consider When Producing CNC Machined Parts

 

CNC Machined Part Materials

CNC machined parts are commonly crafted from a diverse range of materials, including metal alloys and plastics. However, machining ease varies among materials, with rigid ones posing challenges like tool chatter and vibration, which can affect workpiece quality. Conversely, very soft materials or those with exceptionally low melting points risk deformation when interacting with cutting tools. Additionally, the following are common materials for machined parts:

Metal options for machining include Titanium, Bronze, Brass, Copper, Aluminum, Stainless Steel (17-4, Inconel 625 & 718), Zinc, and Magnesium. Plastic alternatives comprise ABS, PC, POM, ABS+PC, PP, PMMA (Acrylic), PS, PEEK, HDPE, DHPE, PPS, Teflon, PAGF30, and PCGF30.

Applications of CNC Machined Parts

Machined parts and components, now essential in every industry, find compatibility across various applications. For example, typical machined components used in diverse applications include valve bodies, ball joints, rollers, housings, gears, fasteners, brackets, and more. Below are industries commonly relying on machined parts:

Medical 

Machined parts play a crucial role in the medical industry, producing precise stainless steel and titanium components like implants, surgical instruments, and diagnostic equipment. Additionally, techniques such as Swiss screw machining ensure tight tolerances, which are crucial for safety and accuracy in medical procedures. CNC machining, known for its precision, is the standard for crafting implants due to its ability to achieve complex geometries.

Aerospace 

In the aerospace industry, engineers rely on machined parts like engine components, mounts, fuel panels, landing gear parts, and prototypes, given the sector’s need for extreme precision. Moreover, in aerospace machining, even the slightest discrepancies are unacceptable, as they can lead to catastrophic failure. Hence, precision in machined parts is critical in this sector.

Automotive 

CNC machining is integral to the automotive industry, producing one-off custom parts, lighting components, engine blocks, pistons, gears, and steering systems. Furthermore, manufacturers leverage advanced methods, including 5-axis CNC machining, to achieve precision and efficiency in crafting intricate automotive parts.

Consumer Products 

Machined parts are pervasive in household appliances, sporting equipment, and consumer electronics. Additionally, CNC machining is commonly applied in crafting components with notable electrical conductivity properties. Examples include sockets, laptop casings, electrical insulation, connectors, and more in these applications.

CNC machined parts are utilized in various industries, including:

      • Military
      • Robotics
      • Electronics
      • Renewable energy

How does MDA Assist in CNC Machining Parts and Components?

We at MDA, with advanced machinery and skilled professionals, ensure accurate and efficient production, meeting specific design requirements. Our capabilities encompass various CNC machining parts techniques, allowing for the creation of intricate and high-quality parts for diverse applications across industries. Additionally, MDA’s commitment to quality control and adherence to client specifications contribute to the overall success of CNC machining projects. 

 

Improve accuracy and effectiveness through MDA’s CNC machining. Take your manufacturing to new heights – Consult with our experts.

 

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