Custom CNC Machined Parts: A Complete Analysis
Custom CNC machining parts have become an integral part of many modern manufacturing product designs and have been deeply integrated into the design and manufacturing processes of many products. Whether it is complex mechanical parts or delicate parts, CNC machining has shown unparalleled advantages.
This article will introduce custom CNC machining parts in detail, welcome to continue reading.
1.What is CNC machining?
CNC machining is an advanced process specifically designed to manufacture high-precision custom CNC machined parts. The process typically involves using computer-controlled tools (such as lathes and milling machines) to precisely cut, shape, and drill materials into the desired shape, making it a custom CNC machined part shape that meets design requirements.
2.Composition and principle of CNC machine tools
Computer numerical control (CNC) machines are the representatives of automated machine tools. They are mainly composed of computers, control electronics and motors, which work together to complete various complex processing tasks. The computer, as the core control unit, is responsible for directing the movement path of the tool head. The control electronics convey specific operating instructions to the machine tool based on a specific tool change program (i.e. “G code”), in which each letter and number corresponds to a specific type of movement of the tool head.
The motor drives the tool to perform the corresponding operation according to the instructions. CNC machine tools are versatile and can perform multiple functions such as drilling, cutting, welding, etc., and can complete complex processing actions with extremely high precision and accuracy. They are one of the most versatile processing machines and can produce almost any custom CNC processing parts that can be imagined, whether it is metal, plastic or other materials, including cutting, drilling, polishing and other operations.
3.Types of CNC Machine Tools
(I) Vertical CNC Machine Tools
Vertical CNC machine tools are the most common type of CNC machine tools and are widely used in the production of custom CNC machined parts. This type of machine tool usually has a certain height range, about 30 inches to 50 inches from the ground. Vertical CNC machine tools are larger in size due to the need to accommodate key components such as computer systems, control electronics and motors.
(II) Horizontal CNC Machine Tools
Horizontal CNC machines also occupy an important position in the field of CNC machining. Although not as common as vertical machines, they excel in cutting precision and are more accurate and delicate. Horizontal CNC machines are usually located between 10 inches and 30 inches underground and are generally equipped with more powerful motors and run at higher speeds than vertical machines, which gives them a unique advantage in the production of specific custom CNC machined parts.
(III) Deep hole CNC machine tools
Deep hole CNC machine tools can be used to cut a variety of materials and are often used in the production of custom CNC machined parts. It usually uses a five-axis system to process a variety of materials, including plastics and aluminum. However, this type of machine tool is relatively expensive, which is an obvious disadvantage.
(IV) Other types
In addition to the main types mentioned above, there are many other types of CNC processing methods, such as wire cutting and laser processing. Processes such as laser and water jet processing also play their respective roles in the production of custom CNC machined parts.
4.Materials for Custom CNC Machined Parts
(i) Aluminum
Aluminum plays an important role in the field of custom CNC machined parts, and it is suitable for a variety of processing methods. The smooth surface of aluminum provides good conditions for grinding and polishing, and its wide range of uses makes it perform well in a variety of custom CNC machined parts application scenarios.
(ii) Brass
Brass is similar to aluminum in terms of machinability and is also a common material for custom CNC machined parts. Although it cannot be completely recycled, it can be melted and reused. Brass is not only used in machine shops, but also often appears in the manufacture of some daily necessities, such as lampshades and sandwich panels.
(iii) Steel
Steel is a common basic material in the workshop and can meet the production of custom CNC machined parts for a variety of purposes. The surface of steel is gray and relatively rough, but it can become smooth after processing or grinding. It is often used in the manufacture of custom CNC machined parts in many industries such as automobile manufacturing and cooking equipment.
(iv) Stainless steel
Stainless steel is an ideal choice for custom CNC machined parts due to its excellent corrosion resistance, especially for the manufacture of high-performance parts. It has higher strength and durability than aluminum and steel, and can meet the production needs of custom CNC machining parts with high quality requirements.
(V) Copper
Copper is a soft metal that is very suitable for custom CNC machining parts. Because of its soft nature, it can be cut with almost any tool.
(VI) Plastic
Plastic is an affordable and versatile material that is an excellent choice for custom CNC machining of prototype parts or production parts. Plastic is easy to process into complex shapes and sizes, which can meet the diverse design needs of custom CNC machining parts.
(VII) Carbide
Carbide materials also have unique application value in the field of custom CNC machining parts. It has special physical and chemical properties that can meet the production needs of some parts with special requirements such as hardness and wear resistance.
5.Surface treatment methods for custom CNC machined parts
(i) Anodizing
Anodizing is a specialized process that forms a coating on the surface of aluminum (or titanium) to give it a variety of colors. It is often used for surface treatment of custom CNC machined parts such as the automotive industry and military products. The process generates a layer of anodic oxide on the metal surface through electrolysis.
(ii) Painting
Painting is a surface treatment method that paints the surface of the workpiece without producing oxides. The color of the paint used varies depending on the industry and product. When painting, the following steps need to be followed: first, thoroughly clean the surface with IPA or degreaser; second, apply primer; finally, apply color and clear coat or paint according to the final desired tone to ensure the beauty and protective performance of the surface of the custom CNC machined parts.
(iii) Polishing
Polishing is a process performed on custom CNC machined parts that have been rough-milled to create a smooth surface, remove waste, and sometimes remove burrs, thereby improving the surface quality of custom CNC machined parts.
(iv) Electroplating
Electroplating is a method of adding an extra layer of protection and durability to custom CNC machined parts. By covering the surface of the part with a thin layer of metal film, the strength and durability of the part are improved.
(V) Sandblasting
Sandblasting is the process of using abrasives (such as sand or glass beads) to remove burrs and other defects on the surface of custom CNC machined parts. It can effectively improve the surface quality of the parts and enhance their precision and aesthetics.
6.Why choose Chinese CNC machining companies?
When seeking custom CNC machining services for new plant construction or workshop expansion, China CNC Machinery Factory is undoubtedly the best choice. China CNC Machinery Factory has rich experience and advanced technology to manufacture a variety of different types of CNC machining machines that make the production process of custom CNC machined parts simpler and more efficient.
China CNC Machinery Factory is well-known for its high-quality machines and timely and efficient services. Whether purchasing a new CNC machine or upgrading an existing one, China CNC Machinery Factory can provide high-quality products and services at very competitive prices to meet customers’ various needs for custom CNC machined parts production.