CNC milling is a cutting process in which material is removed from a block by a rotating tool. In CNC milling the cutting tool is moved in all three dimensions to achieve the desired cut shape.Material is usually removed by both the end and the side of the cutting tool.
In CNC milling the cutting tool usually rotates about an axis that is perpendicular to the table that holds the material to be cut. Cutting tools of various profile shapes are available including square, rounded, and angled. A wide variety of part shapes and geometries are possible.
Possible shapes
A wide variety of 2D and 3D shapes.
Example parts
CNC milling can be used to create engine components, custom and mold tooling, complex mechanisms, enclosures, etc.
Advantages of CNC Milling
Complex shapes from sheet or block material. Cost effective for short runs.
Specifications for CNC Milling
Material - most rigid materials including most metals and hard plastics
Alternative machines - for 2D sheet shapes: Laser Cut, Turret Punch, Fixed Punch.
Tooling - CNC Milling requires only software program tooling and in some cases work-holding jigs.
Reducing costs - use corner radius 10% or more of the height (>0.2" recommended), avoid thin walls.
Notes
As the milling process applies pressure to the material, weak shapes are not practical, such as long thin shapes, and thin walls. Also, CNC milling generates a cut surface with a visible pattern resulting from the rotation and movement of the cutter.
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