How does CNC machining work? CNC machining uses subtractive processes, which means feedstock is machined to its final form by subtracting and removing material. Holes are drilled, lots and pathways are bored, and metal stock is shaped into new material with varying tapers, diameters, and shapes.
For subtractive manufacturing, shapes are achieved by the subtraction of material. This contrasts with other types such as additive manufacturing — where materials are added, layered, and deformed to a specified shape. It also contrasts with injection molding where the material is injected in a different state of matter, using a mold, and formed to a specified shape.
CNC machining is versatile — and can be used with various materials, including metals, plastics, wood, glass, foam, and other composite materials. This versatility has helped make CNC machining a popular choice across industries, enabling designers and engineers to fabricate products efficiently and precisely.
What industries use CNC machining?
CNC machining is widely used across industries. It is common in aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, robotics, agriculture, and other fields that frequently use metal parts. It is also widely used in medical devices, household goods, energy, oil and gas, and other consumer applications. It is one of the most common manufacturing processes in the world.
What are your tolerances for machined parts?
+.005”/-.005” local tolerances across most geometries in metals, +/- 0.010" for plastics. Will vary for large parts, specifically when holding flatness over large parts after heat treatment.
Finish requirements for “As Milled” finish will have a minimum 125 surface finish for CNC parts.
All fabricated parts have a 0.010” dimensional and 1° angular tolerance.
Tapped holes not explicitly called out as Features on the quoted CAD model may be machined to the diameters specified in that model.
No surface treatments (e.g. anodize, bead blast, iridite, powder coat, etc.) will be applied unless you have paid for them and we have specifically acknowledged them.
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