Comprehensive Understanding Precision Machining
Precision machining is the most critical process in modern manufacturing. It drives the production of intricate components with the highest accuracy and efficiency. In its most basic form, precision CNC machining is the best precise machining there is. This process involves the removal of material from a work-piece. It continues to do so until the desired specifications are achieved. And most importantly, these machining processes ensure the highest accuracy. You know, it is possible to achieve tolerance up to ±0.01mm.
In the following few sections, you will find the basics of precision machining. You will learn about various precision CNC machining techniques.
What Is Precision Machining?
Precision machining is the process of making complex parts and components. This method comes at the first place where using a traditional method is hard to achieve accuracy. The term “precision” means the exacting nature of the manufacturing method. In precision machining, minor deviations from specifications can lead to severe consequences.
Precision machining offers safety, reliability, and optimal performance. It is found in most industries involving removing materials. Precision machining is used in aerospace, automotive, medical, electronics, and many more industries. Complex parts like engine parts and precision flanges are made from precision machining. Therefore, where you need tight tolerance, you need precision machining.
How Does Precision Machining Work?
Precision machining shapes materials into precise dimensions. It finishes the process by creating intricate components. This manufacturing method is widely popular in various industries.
One of the critical aspects of precision machining is the use of CNC machines. You know these machines are programmed with G-code and M-code to control the movement of the cutting tool. Precision CNC machining is meant to create components with high accuracy and consistency.
In precision machining, accuracy and repeatability are paramount. Even the slightest deviation from the specified dimensions can lead to faulty products. Therefore, you must meticulously calibrate CNC machines. Select appropriate cutting tools to achieve the required tolerance.
Why Is Precision Machining So Commercially Active In The Modern Age?
Precision machining has become commercially so active in the modern age. This manufacturing method achieved such popularity for several reasons.
* Increased Demand For High-Quality Components
Industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and electronics depend on precision components. These industries often require continuous product development. Precision machining offers rapid prototyping. Thus, this manufacturing method can meet the heightened demand for reliable and efficient machinery and products.
* Advancements In Technology
Technological advancements in automation, robotics, CAD, and CAM have revolutionized precision machining. CNC machines typically come with various software and sensors. Therefore, precision machining in the modern age can achieve the highest level of accuracy and repeatability.
* Growing Complexity Of Products
Modern products are becoming increasingly complex. They often incorporate intricate components with tight tolerance. Precision machining plays a crucial role in meeting these demands. You know, it enables the fabrication of highly precise parts with complex geometries. You can do anything from miniature electronics components to large-scale aerospace components. Whatever you make, precision machining ensures that every part meets exact specifications.
Why Choose Precision Machining Services?
✔ Ensured Accuracy
Our precision machining services guarantee accuracy in every component produced. We ensure that these products adhere to the tightest tolerances and specifications. Consequently, it ensures the reliability and performance of the product.
✔ Expertise
With a team of highly skilled engineers and technicians, we bring years of expertise to every project. Therefore, we can tackle even the most complex manufacturing challenges with confidence.
✔ Reliability
You can rely on our precision machining services. MKCNCPART offers services for consistent, high-quality results, project after project.
Rapid Prototyping Services
This service lets you quickly iterate and refine your designs before full-scale production. You know, it improves the product development cycle and reduces time-to-market.
✔ Best Customer Support
The precision machining factory support team is committed to providing excellent services. You can get assistance at every stage of the project.
4 Types Of Precision CNC Machining Methods
We already mentioned that CNC machining is the most critical manufacturing method in precision machining. If you further evaluate precision CNC machining, you can get more classification. These multiple machining methods arise due to the complexity of the final product. Each of these methods offers unique advantages.
1：CNC Turning
In this machining method, the work-piece rotates at a certain speed. The cutting tool follows the CNC codes. When moving, these cutting tools remove materials from the work-piece. It continues to do so until the product meets its final specifications. This precision CNC machining method is suitable for creating cylindrical parts.
2：CNC Milling
In this precision CNC machining method, the work-piece remains stationary. The cutting tools rotate at a certain speed and follow the CNC code for the movement. This precision CNC machining method is suitable for creating smooth surfaces and holes in the work-piece.
3：CNC Drilling
This precision CNC machining method creates precise holes in workpieces. Like the CNC milling method, the work-piece remains stationary in this method as well. The rotary drill bits make different sizes of holes.
4：CNC Grinding
CNC grinding uses abrasive wheels to remove material from the work-piece. It is used to achieve extremely tight tolerances and smooth surface finishes.
Metals Used In Precision Machining
Precision machining is renowned for its versatility. It means you can work with diverse materials, notably metals. Among the most common metals, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper are noteworthy. You know, this versatility makes precision machining popular in many industries.
➠ Stainless Steel
It is a corrosion-resistant alloy. Stainless steel is mainly composed of iron, chromium, and other elements. Popular stainless-steel variations are SUS304, SUS303, and SUS316L. Popular stainless steel precision machining products include surgical instruments, engine components, shafts, valves, and fittings.
| Material | Cr | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Ni | Mo | N |
| SUS303 | 17-19% | 0.15% | 1% | 2% | 0.20% | 0.15% | 8-10% | 0.60% | – |
| SUS304 | 17.5-19.5% | 0.07% | 1% | 2% | 0.05% | – | 8-10.5% | – | 0.11% |
| SUS316L | 16-18% | 0.03% | 1% | 2% | 0.045% | 0.03% | 12-15% | 2-3% | – |
➠ Aluminum
Aluminum is also a versatile metal. It finds extensive use in precision machining. Aluminum is famous in diverse industries due to its favorable properties. It is lightweight and offers excellent corrosion resistance and high-strength-to-weight ratio. AL6262 & AL6061 are popular aluminum alloys.
| Material | Al | Mg | Si | Fe | Cu | Cr | Zn | Ti | Others |
| AL6262 | 93.75-97.6 | 0.8-1.2 | 0.4-0.8 | 0-0.7 | 0.4-1.4 | 0-0.20 | 0-0.25 | 0-0.15 | Balance |
| AL6061 | 96.85 | 0.9 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 0.30 | 0.25 | 0.20 | 0.10 | 0.10 |
➠ Iron
It is a widely used metal. Iron finds exceptional use in various industrial applications. It offers strength, durability, and machinability. Among its variations, 12L14 steel stands out. Popular Iron precision components are shafts, fasteners, bushings, bearings, fittings, pins, and more.
| Material | Fe | Mn | S | Pb | C | P |
| 12L14 | 97.91-98.7% | 0.85-1.15% | 0.260-0.35% | 0.15-0.35% | 0.15% | 0.040-0.090% |
➠ Brass
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy. Among its variations, C2680 and C2600 are the most popular. C2680 is known for its excellent cold work-ability and corrosion resistance. It finds applications in electrical components, connectors, and decorative items. On the other hand, the C2600 offers high flexibility. It is prevalent for plumbing fittings and valve components.
| Material | Cu | Fe | Pb | Zn |
| C2600 | 89-91% | 0.05% | 0.05% | Remainder |
| C2680 | 64-68% | 0.05% | 0.05% | Remainder |
➠ Red Copper
Red copper is renowned for its exceptional conductivity, corrosion resistance, and malleability. Both C11000 and C10200 are famous variants of red copper. C11000 is also recognized as ETP copper. It offers high electrical and thermal conductivity. On the other hand, C10200 is known as OFHC copper. Both variants find extensive applications in electrical connectors, bushes, and heat exchangers.
| Material | Cu | P | O | Other |
| C11000 | 99.9 | – | – | Balance |
| C10200 | 99.95 | 0.001-0.005 | – | Balance |
➠ Beryllium Copper
Beryllium copper is a high-strength alloy. It is mainly known as the C17200 variant of copper alloys. It offers excellent mechanical properties and thermal conductivity. Beryllium Copper also provides remarkable strength, hardness, and wear resistance abilities. Therefore, it is ideal for applications requiring precision machining.
| Material | Cu | Al | Be | Co | Si |
| C17200 | Remainder | 0.20% | 1.80-2% | 0.20% | 0.020% |
➠ Alloy Copper
Alloy copper is a group of copper-based alloys engineered with various additives. These alloys offer unique properties. Among those alloys, CUSN38PB2, H62, C3604, C3600, C14500, and C17300 are notable.
| Material | Fe | Ni | Al | Cu | Pb | Sn | Others | Zn |
| CuZn38PB2 | 0.2 | 0.3 | 0.05 | 60-61 | 1.6-2.5 | 0.2 | 0.2 | Remainder |
| H62 | 0.15 | 0.5 | – | 60-63.5 | 0.08 | – | 0.3 | Balance |
| C3604 | 0.1-0.7 | 0.02-0.07 | 0.02-0.6 | 65-80 | 0.01-0.05 | 1-2 | 0.001 | Remainder |
| C3600 | 0.35 | – | – | 60.0-61.5 | 2.5-2.7 | – | – | 35.4 |
C14500 provides high conductivity and corrosion resistance. It is a popular material for electrical connectors.
| Material | Cu | P | Te |
| C14500 | 99 | 0.004-0.012 | 0.40-0.70 |
C17300 is valued for its high strength and thermal conductivity. It is often used in electrical connectors, automotive parts, and more.
| Material | Cu | Pb | Al | Be | Co | Si |
| C17300 | Remainder | 0.20-0.60 | 0.20 | 1.8-2 | 0.20 | 0.20 |
RFQ
What Is The Standard Tolerance For Precision CNC Machining?
The standard tolerance for precision CNC machining is ±0.005 inches (±0.13mm). You can achieve tolerance up to ±0.01mm using the precision machining methods. Meeting tight tolerance is significant for ensuring better functionality.
What Is A 0.01 mm Tolerance?
A tolerance of 0.01mm signifies the allowable deviations from a specified dimension. It means that the final machined part must adhere closely to the intended measurement. This value is typically called the tightest tolerance in the modern age.
What Is The Difference Between CNC Ｍachining And Precision Machining?
CNC machining and precision machining are related but distinct concepts. Precision machining is the process of manufacturing highly accurate and intricate components with tight tolerance. It may involve various methods like milling, turning, drilling, and grinding. Implementing CNC technology leads to different CNC machining processes.
Conclusion
Precision machining is the hottest topic of the present era. The foundation of the modern era is mainly dependent on precision machining. Precision CNC machining is one of its most critical methods. We have already discussed its basics.
You have also learned about its different types. Finally, you also went through different metals used in precision machining. We have mentioned popular variants used in these precision machining methods.
Let’s discuss your project
