CNC Turning

Typically, we recommend a minimum wall thickness of 0.5mm for metals and 1mm for plastics. However, these values largely depend on the size of the part; therefore the larger the part size, the higher the recommended minimum wall thickness should be. Please keep in mind that this does not imply that wall thicknesses with lesser values are unachievable. These recommendations are simply thresholds to limit the risk of warpage.

If a specific fillet radius is required, please specify. If not, the fillet radii that allow for easy machining will be added based on the machinist’s discretion. For a general idea, internal vertical edge radii could be >1/3*Depth and internal horizontal edges may be left sharp or have a 0.5mm to 1mm radius.

A CNC Turning Center performs a turning type operation. CNC lathes, or turning centers, have tooling mounted on a turret which is computer-controlled. CNC Turning is a process in manufacturing where workpieces are rotated as various tools are used to remove material and create the desired shape.

Rough turning removes as much material as possible without a focus on accuracy and surface finish, getting the workpiece close to the desired shape. Finish turning “finishes” the process, producing the desired smoothness and accuracy.

CNC lathes are most often only 2 axis machines with one spindle. They also don’t have high production capabilities and typically don’t have a protective enclosure around the machine. CNC turning centers are more advanced versions of CNC lathes with up to 5 axes and more versatility in cutting ability. They also offer the ability to produce higher volumes and usually integrate milling, drilling, and other capabilities.

In addition to using turning tools, a CNC turning center can also be equipped with rotating cutters such as end mills or drills, which allows for greater freedom in machining, such as having the ability to handle asymmetrical features in parts. This increases production speed and efficiency, cost-effectiveness and safer operations. Several aspects of turning that are unique and different from milling, include the ease of achieving radial symmetry, high precision due to mounting part in chuck, and good surface finish.

CNC turning is used for creating a variety of parts, including auto parts, knobs, tubes, gears, toy parts, flywheels, crankshafts, hubs & disc cams. It is most often used to manufacture parts for automotive, aerospace, medical, and other industries.