Welcome to precision manufacturing! As you enter this world, you’ll discover the intricate techniques that drive the creation of quality products. This blog will give you a head start as you begin your journey into this wonderful world, and you learn more about all the things that make precision machining the art and science it is. In particular, we’ll give you the key insights you need into popular types of machining including milling, turning, grinding and more. Let’s go!
Types of Machining:
Machining is crucial in the manufacturing industry, especially in precision sheet metal fabrication. It involves using tools and techniques to shape, cut and finish metal into specific dimensions and designs. This precision creates quality metal components for a wide range of industries including aerospace, medical and telecommunications.
Five-axis, alongside CNC milling, allows us to make complex parts in one machining center.
Milling
Milling, as a function of computer numerical control (CNC) machining, is a fundamental machining technique which uses a spinning cutting tool to shape a workpiece by removing material. As a side note, when material is cut away from the stock, this is known as subtractive manufacturing.
In milling, the metal stock is held in place (usually at the bottom of the work center) and the tool comes down to remove metal from the stock.
However, there is also 4- and 5-axis milling, in which the part is secured to a bed in the machining center. This bed can pivot and rotate to allow the machine head to access narrow nooks and crannies to cut excess material from the part.
It allows us to create complex shapes and achieve tight tolerances. Whether it’s metals, plastics, or composites, milling plays a critical role in producing intricate parts with exceptional precision.
Turning
Also within CNC’s library of capabilities is turning. Turning is a versatile machining technique employed to create cylindrical parts, such as shafts and spindles. In contrast to milling, where the workpiece is stationary and the tool is spinning, turning sees the workpiece itself, well, turning, and the tool only moves to the extent it needs to remove excess material.
Turning enables us to achieve precise dimensions and excellent surface finishes.
Laser cutting makes fine cuts in sheet metal.
Grinding
In addition to milling and turning, grinding is an essential process in precision machining. It enables us to refine surfaces, remove sharp edges and enhance the overall appearance of parts.
There are several types of grinding, including surface grinding, cylindrical grinding, double disc grinding, centerless grinding and more, each warranting a complete piece on its own merit.
Wire EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining)
Wire EDM is a machining process that uses an electrically charged wire to cut through a workpiece. This technique is especially effective for intricate parts with complex geometries. By carefully controlling the electric discharge, wire EDM ensures exceptional accuracy and surface finish.
Laser Cutting
Laser cutting is a precise machining process that utilizes a high-powered laser to cut through materials. It offers clean cuts, minimal material distortion and high cutting speeds. Laser cutting excels in creating intricate shapes and achieving precise dimensions.
Its minimal material distortion and high cutting speeds make it an efficient process for prototyping and large-scale production. Eagle is currently equipped with 2 lasers for 2D cutting of sheet metal up to 0.375 inch thick.
Precision welding is a crucial process for joining parts together.
Welding
Now let’s shift our focus to welding. While not a machining process in the truest sense, welding is undeniably a crucial step in sheet metal fabrication. It allows us to join metal pieces together, creating strong and permanent bonds.
There are different types of welding, including spotwelding, gas welding, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding and submerged arc welding.
At Eagle Magnetic, our welders and processes are certified to AWS D17.1 standards. We specialize in welding sheet metal, and using various welding techniques to achieve reliable welds.
Fixtures
In addition to machining parts and flanges we also make our own fixtures. Making our own fixtures is essential for maintaining control over the quality, performance, and customization of our production processes.
By crafting fixtures internally, we ensure each fixture meets our exact specifications. This enhances the accuracy and repeatability of our machining operations and supports a seamless workflow.
Choose the Right Machining Process for Your Job
In precision manufacturing, there are many types of machining and machining processes, each with specific uses and advantages. While the specific services offered by a shop may vary, understanding the fundamentals of these processes helps in appreciating the intricacies of precision manufacturing.
When seeking precision sheet metal fabrication, choose a shop that excels in machining and welding techniques for your specific requirements. When you partner with Eagle, you can expect the highest levels of quality and precision. We’re committed to your satisfaction with every project. Embark on this journey and experience the impeccable craftsmanship our shop has to offer!
