The Guide to CNC Machining for Prototyping
If you’re in the prototyping stage, you need inexpensive, reliable, and quickly-created parts.
Fortunately, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining offers all those advantages. Read on to see how CNC machining can be used for prototyping, focusing on processes, advantages, and applications.
What is CNC Machining?
CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process, meaning the material is removed from a solid block, or “workpiece,” to form the desired part. The process begins with a 3D CAD model, which is converted into G-code, the programming language that instructs CNC machines on how to move, cut, and shape the material. Two of the most common CNC techniques used in prototyping are CNC turning and CNC milling.
CNC turning creates parts with rotational symmetry, such as shafts, rods, or cylinders. The workpiece rotates on a spindle while a cutting tool moves along its surface to remove material. This process is ideal for creating parts that are round or cylindrical in shape.
CNC milling cuts parts with complex geometries, including flat surfaces, grooves, holes, and pockets. The workpiece remains stationary while rotating cutting tools move along multiple axes to remove material.
Start Your Manufacturing Project with MakerVerse
MakerVerse is your platform for sourcing industrial parts, providing instant access to a vetted supply chain and a full range of manufacturing technologies. With AI-powered quoting, order management, and fulfillment, MakerVerse helps with everything from initial prototypes to full-scale production.
Why Choose CNC Machining for Prototyping?
Speed and efficiency: CNC machines offer rapid production times, critical for prototyping. Lead times on the MakerVerse platform start at just six days.
Cost-effectiveness: CNC machining is cost-effective for low-volume production and prototypes, particularly compared to other manufacturing processes like injection molding, which requires expensive molds. Since CNC machining doesn’t require specialized tooling, it offers a flexible solution for small-batch production and prototyping.
Precision and accuracy: CNC machines provide high precision, making them ideal for parts requiring tight tolerances. CNC turning and milling can create highly detailed parts with great accuracy, making them suitable for functional testing and assembly verification.
Wide range of materials: One of the most significant advantages of CNC machining is the broad range of materials that can be used, including metals like aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium, as well as plastics like ABS, nylon, and polycarbonate. Through MakerVerse, you can get an automatic quote for more than 150 materials.
Complex Geometries: While CNC turning excels in producing cylindrical and symmetrical parts, CNC milling is ideal for parts with intricate geometries. These combined capabilities make CNC machining versatile and suitable for many prototype designs.
The CNC Machining Prototyping Process
The CNC machining process for prototyping generally follows several key steps:
- Design and CAD modeling: The process begins with creating a detailed 3D CAD model, which includes the dimensions, features, and tolerances required for the final part.
- G-Code Generation: The CAD model is converted into G-Code, which directs the CNC machine’s tools. This code provides precise instructions, such as where to cut, the speed of the tool, and the depth of each cut. At MakerVerse, we handle this step for you.
- Machining: Material is removed from the workpiece using cutting tools during machining. In CNC turning, the workpiece rotates on a spindle, while in CNC milling, the cutting tools rotate and move along multiple axes. Both processes enable the creation of complex parts with tight tolerances.
- Post-Processing: After machining, the part may require additional processing, such as sanding, polishing, or painting, to improve the surface finish and meet aesthetic or functional requirements.
Applications of CNC Machined Prototypes
CNC turning and milling are used for prototyping in various industries, including:
- Aerospace: Prototypes for turbine blades, engine components, and structural elements.
- Automotive: Engine parts, transmission components, and precision brackets.
- Medical devices: Prototypes of surgical tools, implants, and diagnostic equipment.
- Electronics: Enclosures, heat sinks, and connectors.
Start Your CNC Prototyping Project with MakerVerse
At MakerVerse, we provide access to a vetted supply chain and a wide range of manufacturing technologies. Our AI-powered quoting, order management, and fulfillment ensure that your prototypes meet the highest quality standards.
Upload your design to MakerVerse today and explore how CNC machining can help accelerate your prototyping process.
