Step turning is a turning method that creates two or more distinct diameters on a single round workpiece. It uses a lathe to cut along the axis at fixed points, removing material in steps.

What makes step turning unique is the sharp 90° shoulder between each diameter. This clean transition is the “step” that defines the process.

Low-volume CNC machining refers to the production of a limited number of parts using computer-controlled machines. The volume usually ranges from a single unit up to a few hundred pieces. These parts are made with tight tolerances and repeatable accuracy.

CNC milling costs vary based on material type, part design, quantity, machine time, and labor. On average, prices range from $50 to $150 per hour. Simpler aluminum parts cost less, while complex stainless steel parts or prototypes cost more. Knowing what affects the price helps you control it.

Helical milling is a method that uses a spiral tool path to cut into metal. The cutter moves in a circular path while also plunging downward, like a screw. This reduces cutting force, lowers heat buildup, and improves chip evacuation. It’s often used for machining holes, threads, and pockets, especially in harder materials.

3+2 machining, or positional 5-axis machining, means the part is rotated into a set position using two rotational axes. Once fixed, the tool performs the cutting using three-axis motion. The rotary axes don’t move during the actual cutting. They only move before cutting starts to position the part.

CNC acrylic machining is a subtractive process. Using high-speed rotating tools, a CNC machine removes material from a solid acrylic sheet. The machine follows a digital design file to accurately cut, drill, or mill the acrylic.

This method creates smooth edges, clean holes, and complex shapes. It works well for both prototypes and finished products. Acrylic is strong, lightweight, and has excellent optical clarity, making it a popular choice.

Feed rate refers to how quickly the tool advances along the workpiece. It’s usually measured in millimeters per minute (mm/min) or inches per minute (IPM). Cutting speed, on the other hand, describes how fast the cutting tool moves relative to the surface of the workpiece. It’s measured in surface feet per minute (SFM) or meters per minute (m/min). While both impact the overall efficiency of the process, they influence different aspects of the machining operation.

Profile milling refers to a process in which a rotating cutting tool shapes the surface of a material along a predefined path. This allows for the creation of complex profiles and shapes. It is typically carried out using CNC machines, which allow precise control of the tool’s movement along the material.

Broaching is a machining process that removes material from a workpiece using a special tool called a broach. The broach has a series of cutting edges, each slightly larger than the last, to remove material in steps. It is used for precision tasks, such as shaping, sizing, and creating detailed features.

CNC routing is a computer-driven cutting process. It uses a spinning bit to cut materials along a precise path. The machine reads a digital design file and then follows the programmed toolpath to shape the part.

This method works best for flat and 2.5D parts. It handles plastics, wood, aluminum, foam, and more. It’s used for signs, panels, enclosures, and prototypes. The machine can repeat the same job over and over with little variation.

Plain milling is a machining process in which a rotating cutter moves across a workpiece to remove material and create a flat surface. This operation is mostly done using horizontal milling machines, but vertical machines can also be used in some cases. The main goal of plain milling is to smooth the surface or cut grooves.

Swiss machining is a type of CNC that produces small, high-precision parts. It supports the workpiece with a sliding headstock and guide bushing, reducing vibration and allowing for tighter tolerances. 

Swiss machining gets its name from its origins in Swiss watch manufacturing. The process was created to make the tiny, precise watch parts.

In traditional lathes, the material is only held at one end, which can cause bending when cutting forces are applied. Swiss machines solve this problem by supporting the material at the cutting point.

Face milling is a machining technique where a multi-toothed cutter removes material from the surface of a workpiece. The cutting tool moves perpendicular to the workpiece, creating a flat and smooth surface in a single pass. Manufacturers use this method to make precise, clean surfaces with tight tolerances across various materials.

Brass CNC machining is where computer-controlled machines shape brass into precise parts. It involves cutting, drilling, and milling brass based on digital designs. This method ensures high accuracy and consistency, making it ideal for custom components.

A CNC shop has computer-controlled machines cutting, shaping, and finishing materials into parts. These shops handle everything from prototypes to large-scale production and are used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics.

CNC machine shops rely on skilled operators and engineers. They ensure the machines run smoothly and produce high-quality parts. Combining technology and expertise makes these shops a key part of manufacturing.

CNC-milled parts are manufactured using computer-controlled cutting machines. They can include anything from simple brackets to complex aerospace components.

Most CNC-milled parts feature precise dimensions, tight tolerances, and excellent surface finishes. The process creates parts with features like holes, slots, pockets, threads, and contoured surfaces that would be difficult to produce manually.