Computer Numerical Control or CNC is a technology that has been dominating the metal-forming industry from the last few decades. This is because the technique is able to deliver the much-needed advanced precision and repeatability that the manual processes could not. But in the recent days, the market is getting flooded with multiple CNC machining techniques and it is becoming difficult to distinguish between them without knowledge.
So, in this article, we are going to discuss about CNC milling and turning, the two very important techniques used today, which have significant differences between them.
CNC Milling
CNC milling is a complete machine process which is capable of producing custom-designed parts and components. It can do this by removing the materials progressively from the workpiece with the help of multi-point cutting tools. It also has the intervention of computerized controls and programs. These systems normally have three linear degrees of movement and freedom. They have the ability of free movement across the X, Y and Z axis, all while the workpiece remaining stationary. There is limited dimensional operation in this case and this is why the speed of the operations is lowered. All this has made it an appropriate process for smaller productions and prototyping.
CNC turning
CNC turning, on the other hand, is a complete manufacturing process which has specific ways to perform. This involves holding the bars of the metal material in a chuck and it is then rotated. A feeding tool attached to the piece removes the material till the desired shape is achieved. This desired shape is mostly achieved through the removal of material from the workpiece, and this process is known as subtraction machining.
It is possible for all the work to get completed from one particular side if the CNC turning center possesses only one turret. But there are many turning centers, which consist of a main spindle along with other sub-spindles attached, to ensure faster operation. If the setup is operated in this configuration, the main spindle will be partially machining the workpiece. It will then be moved to the sub-spindle and the rest of the job will be completed on the other side of the piece. If one wants to run large production with short lead times, this is a perfect process because of its high operational speed.
LOCUS Precision CNC Milling & Turning comes with all these benefits for you to have smoother business operations.