CNC MACHINING

Machined parts that fit the job

Milling and turning for functional metal and plastic parts. Review geometry, access and critical dimensions before choosing a machining route.

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Five-axis CNC machine cutting a complex aluminum component

PROCESS FIT

Where CNC machining fits

CNC machining removes material from stock. It is often the right starting point when a prototype needs the properties of the specified production material, precise mating features or repeatable small batches.

Milling, turning or both?

Rotational parts often favor turning; prismatic parts typically favor milling. A part may need both operations or multiple setups. The drawing, not the process label, decides the practical sequence.

Design for inspection

Call out datums, threads, surface finishes and the handful of dimensions that control fit. State whether a dimensional report or material certificate is needed so it can be included in the scope.

BEFORE YOU QUOTE

Design and RFQ checkpoints

Tool access

Review deep pockets, inside corners and features that require a tool to approach from more than one side.

Material and stock

Specify the exact grade, stock form and any heat treatment when performance depends on them.

Critical dimensions

Mark mating surfaces, datum references and inspection requirements instead of applying one tight tolerance everywhere.

Threads and inserts

Identify thread standards, engagement depth and any installed hardware on the drawing.

SPECIFICATION NOTES

Material and finish decisions

Aluminum alloys

A frequent starting point for light housings and fixtures. Confirm grade, temper and any anodized surfaces against the application.

Stainless steels

Consider corrosion environment, grade, finish and the machining effort associated with the chosen alloy.

Engineering plastics

Review moisture, temperature, wear and dimensional stability before selecting a stock grade.

Surface treatment

Call out cosmetic faces, coating or plating, masked areas and dimensions measured after finishing.

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

What teams make with CNC machining

Functional housings

Interfaces, mounting features and seals that need a defined fit.

Fixtures and tooling

Assembly aids, checking fixtures and development equipment.

Low-volume components

Repeat orders where tooling investment is not yet justified.

PROCESS DECISIONS

Choose the route that matches the requirement

A quick orientation; geometry and batch size can change the answer.

Feature	CNC machining	3D printing	Injection molding
Production material	Machined stock grade	Process-specific material	Specified resin
Tooling investment	Usually no hard tool	Usually no hard tool	Tool required
Geometry consideration	Tool access and setups	Orientation and support	Draft and parting

SEND A USEFUL BRIEF

What to include in the RFQ

Send a STEP model and a controlled drawing when available. State units, material grade, quantity and the revision to quote. Mark the interfaces that control fit and list threads, finishes and inspection evidence separately.

Features that deserve a closer review

Deep pockets, slender walls, long holes, small internal radii and surfaces that require several setups can influence method and cost. Flag which details may be changed and which are functionally fixed.

Define the finished part

Show whether dimensions apply before or after coating, whether edges need a particular condition, and whether any first-article or material documentation is required. Feasibility and lead time are confirmed for the drawing, not assumed from a generic tolerance chart.

COMMON QUESTIONS

CNC machining: common questions

01What should the drawing specify?

Provide the material grade, finish, datums, critical dimensions, threads and any inspection documentation. Include a 3D model if the geometry is complex.

02Can one part combine turning and milling?

Yes. The manufacturing sequence depends on the geometry and quantities. Share the complete model so the setups can be assessed.

03How do you decide the achievable tolerance?

We review the specific feature, material, geometry and inspection method. A tolerance is confirmed for the quoted part rather than promised across every design.

04Should I specify a surface finish on every face?

Identify only the surfaces whose texture or appearance matters. A general finish for the remaining faces can be agreed during review.

05Can a machined prototype support a repeat order?

Often it can, but the setup, inspection plan and unit economics should be reviewed against the expected order quantities.

Review your design with us

Send a model or drawing, quantity, material, critical features and intended use. We will respond with a process recommendation and a project-specific quotation.

Discuss your project