Whether you’re designing and creating a new product or parts for that product or need replacement parts that are no longer made, a machine shop has options for creating them. Mill Turning vs. CNC Milling, which process is the right one? The answer is just like the one from lawyers: it depends. Much will depend on what you need made and machined, and the best way to make it happen.
Mill turning and CNC milling are two separate and different processes that do different things. It depends on what you’re asking the machine shop to fabricate. That’s why it’s important to understand the differences between Mill Turning vs. CNC Milling.
What Is CNC?
CNC, or “computer numerical control,” involves computer-controlled machining systems. This automated process allows a machinist to set up specific parameters and let the machine do as much or as little of the work as needed. Because it’s an automated process, CNC milling allows for more control and efficiency while machining precision parts.
CNC milling allows for more versatility in creating meticulous designs, sophisticated and complex shapes, and highly detailed features. This process is ideal for creating threads, pockets, slots, and engraving with reliable precision.
Milling speeds can be slower when working with harder materials like stainless steel. This is from the increased wear and tear on the tools, more frequent changes of tools, and increased work needed to get the required surface finishes.
Mill Turning vs. CNC Milling
Parts manufacturing and fabrication can involve mill turning or CNC milling to get the finished product.
- Mill turning is a combination of two processes. There are differences in milling and turning. In milling, the workpiece rotates while the cutting tool doesn’t. In turning, the cutting tool moves and rotates while the workpiece doesn’t. This process leaves very little waste of materials.
- CNC milling is an automated process that uses software to focus on machining parts by rotating a cutting tool against a stationary workpiece, typically creating more intricate 3D shapes on a solid block of material. The workpiece is stationary while the machine turns around it. However, CNC milling may have more material waste than mill turning.
Each process can be used singly or in combination with the others to fabricate the exact piece or product needed with less waste and fewer errors. Both are used by different industries including aerospace, automotive, industrial machinery, biomedical, food and beverage, energy, marine, and military/defense.
What Are the Differences in Milling and Turning When Creating Parts?
The milling process usually starts with square or rectangular bar stock and is used to make components. Turning and milling are both used for metals like aluminum, steel, brass, copper, and titanium and a variety of thermoplastics.
Mill turning is a combination of both types of machining, usually into one machine that works mostly independently. This process is better suited for creating complex parts with both cylindrical and non-cylindrical features, while CNC milling is more versatile for intricate 3D shapes on a solid block. It is best suited for exterior cuts and rotationally symmetric parts. If a piece requires precise internal features, additional processes will likely be needed after the CNC milling is completed.
Frequently, CNC milling is utilized for prototypes and smaller production runs with intricate designs. Mill turning is better suited for the high-volume production of complex parts with rotational and non-rotational features.
Brown Industries For Mill Turning and CNC Milling
If you want to talk about the differences between Mill Turning vs. CNC Milling for your next project, we’re here to help.
Whether you need help fabricating a single component, a subassembly, or manufacturing a complete product, Brown Industries offers mill turning and CNC milling for all your needs. Brown Industries can help you manufacture anything you can design faster and for less.