How CNC Turning and CNC Milling is Different

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CNC machining is the best choice for creating parts and equipment that needs great precision and perfection. CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. A computer takes control of the whole operation and creates the parts/ equipment you need.

If you have been in association with CNC machining, then you might know that there are two types of CNC machining. CNC turning services and CNC milling services. Let us look at their differences.

CNC Turning

CNC turning is the simplest CNC machining technique. When visiting a CNC turning shop, you will see, a cylindrical shape workpiece (A stock piece that is cut and shaved to give the desired shape) is used for machining.

The workpiece is set on a rotating platform. It starts to rotate the workpiece at a great speed. On one side, there will be different types of blades that will be pushed towards the workpiece for shaving and shaping.

Both the workpiece and the blade are controlled by a computer that creates the desired shape with great precision. The major drawback of CNC turning is that it cannot be used in making asymmetrical and in cylindrical shapes. But in terms of making cylindrical shapes, CNC turning services are cheaper than CNC milling services.

CNC Milling

CNC milling does not have any particular drawback of not being able to create asymmetrical shapes. There are three types of CNC milling machines. 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis. Most of the CNC milling shops use machines that have a 5-axis operation setting.

CNC milling uses many rotary blades and tools for shaping the workpiece. The workpiece is set on a table that can also rotate and move on different axes. Because of such freedom of movement and operation, you can create any shape you want. But it will not be as cheap as a CNC turning service.

Differences

The main differences between CNC turning services and CNC milling services are their working principles, designing opportunities, and cost.

• Working Principle

CNC turning shops use a rotating platform that will hold a cylindrical/ symmetrical workpiece. The piece will be rotated at a great speed. On one side of this rotating piece, there will be a table with different shapes and types of blades. The computer will push these blades to the workpiece accordingly to achieve the desired result.

In CNC machining services, the workpiece is set on a table that can rotate and move in different directions to accompany the process. The workpiece can be moved upside down on the table if needed. The primary shaping tool is a computer-controlled hand with multiple rotary cutting tools.

• Designing Opportunities

CNC turning will only let you design shapes that are symmetrical and cylindrical in shape. You can design and create shafts and other cylindrical parts of machines with it.

But with CNC milling, you can create any kind of shape, let it be simple or complex.

• Cost

The cost of CNC turning services is lower than CNC milling. CNC milling shops will charge you higher prices for the complexity of tools and the use of robotic hands and other factors.

Conclusion

The difference between these two types of CNC machining is very clear and the best option is undoubtedly CNC machining. But when looking from an economical perspective, CNC turning is the best option in multiple scenarios. So both of them are equally important.