Last Updated on October 13, 2023 by assistant
Being a variant of CNC machining, CNC turning is a precision process that removing the extra materials from a workpiece using cutting tools. The process is automated and uses computer numerical control (CNC) technology to control the movement of the cutters. It is widely used in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and electronics, to produce complex parts with high precision and accuracy. This article will show you why should you choose CNC turning for your unique project.
What Are the Benefits of CNC Turning?
What makes it a popular choice for precision machining? You will find out the reasons below:
High Precision: CNC turning machines are extremely precise, which we can apply for creating complex parts. This is especially important for industries where tight tolerance is critical. For example, aerospace, medical devices, and automotive industries, etc. CNC turning machines can produce parts with tolerances up to ±0.005mm.
Consistency: We can apply CNC turning to produce high-volume parts with the same quality and precision. And it is a highly automated process to avoid unnecessary human errors. That’s why you can get high-quality turning parts quickly and consistently.
Cost-Effective: It can reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming manual labor. Once the machine is set up and programmed, CNC machines can run continuously and produce parts with minimal supervision.
Flexibility: There is an array of materials that we can apply CNC turning to process: metals, plastics, and wood. It makes it a versatile manufacturing process that can be applied in various industries.
Speed: CNC turning machines can produce parts within a short time, which is very important for industries with tight deadlines. CNC machines can produce parts at a much faster rate than traditional machining, which can help you get your products to market faster.
Safety: CNC turning machines are generally safer than traditional machining methods because they are computer-controlled and require less manual intervention. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.
What Are the Common Materials for CNC Turning?
One of the biggest advantages of CNC turning is that it can work with a variety of materials: metals, plastics, and composites. Some of the most common materials used for CNC turning below:
Aluminum: A lightweight, durable, and highly machinable material, it is widely used in CNC turning. It is an ideal material for parts that require strength, corrosion resistance, and low density.
Stainless Steel: Because of its high strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, stainless steel is an ideal material for CNC turning prototyping. It is commonly used for parts that require a high degree of precision, such as medical devices and aerospace components.
Brass: A highly machinable material, it is used in CNC turning for its decorative properties. We often apply it for musical instruments and jewelry.
Plastics: There are many different types of plastics that are commonly used in CNC turning, including PVC, nylon, polycarbonate, and more. Compared to metals, plastics are often used for parts that require a high degree of flexibility or that need to be lightweight.
Copper: Copper is a highly conductive material, which is highly machinable, making it an ideal material for CNC turning.
Carbon Steel: It’s widely used in CNC turning for parts that require a high degree of strength and toughness. It is often used for industrial components and machinery.
What Are the Processes of CNC Turning?
Compared to CNC milling, the process of CNC turning is relatively less complicated. At the same time, CNC turning is not one-step work but involves several processes. Some of the most common processes include:
Facing:Cutting a flat surface on the end of a cylindrical workpiece.
Boring: Enlarging a hole in a workpiece using a cutting tool.
Drilling: Making a hole in a workpiece using a drill bit.
Threading: Cutting threads into a workpiece using a cutting tool.
What Are the Common Applications of CNC Turning:
CNC turning is widely used in various industries and applications such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and electronics. The common applications are below for your reference:
Aerospace: Aircraft engines, landing gear, components for space exploration vehicles and satellites, etc.
Automotive: Engines, transmissions, and other critical components, suspension systems, braking systems, etc.
Medical: Surgical instruments, implants, and prosthetics, components for diagnostic equipment such as CT scanners and MRI machines, etc.
Electronics: Components for electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, electrical connectors, switches, and other components.
Industrial: Components for machinery and equipment, parts for oil and gas equipment, mining equipment, and other heavy industrial applications.
Future of CNC Turning:
With emerging technologies(automation, robotics, and the use of artificial intelligence), the future of CNC turning will become more promising. It seems that we can increase efficiency and productivity and reduce labor costs, making CNC turning more accessible to small and medium-sized businesses.
RuitaiMould’s CNC Turning Service:
CNC turning is part of our CNC machining capabilities. We apply CNC turning to create all kinds of metal and plastic parts for various industries. With years’ experience in CNC machining, we are confident to customize your CNC turning project from one-off project to lasting partnerships. You can click here to know more details about CNC turning or send us an e-mail here!