High-Quality
CNC Turning Parts
Parts in days anywhere in the USA.
Our CNC Turning service offers:
- Repeatability
- High Dimensional Tolerances
- Custom Prototypes and End-Use Parts
Quality Matters | AS9100D Certified, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, & ITAR Registered
* Not all locations have all certifications and registrations. Parts requiring these will be made at facilities with the correct certifications and registrations.
Table of Contents
What is CNC Turning?
CNC turning is a subtractive manufacturing process involving using a CNC lathe to shape a workpiece by rotating it against stationary cutting tools. This highly precision-focused process can create extremely complicated cylindrical parts with tight tolerances. At our company, we pride ourselves on our top-of-the-line lathes for CNC turning, equipped with live tooling technology, allowing us to perform turning and milling functions in the same setup. This incredibly versatile technology will enable us to easily create even more intricate and complex parts. Our CNC turning service is an ideal solution for production runs, and we strive to provide our clients with the best possible service by utilizing this technology to its fullest extent.
How does CNC Turning work?
CNC turning is a manufacturing process where a stationary cutting tool removes material from a rotating workpiece to create a cylindrical and symmetrical object. The process is done using a computer-controlled machine called a CNC lathe. The CNC turning lathe is programmed to move the cutting tool along the workpiece to create the shape and dimensions programmed into its software.
The CNC turning process generally starts by securing the raw material to the lathe spindle, which rotates the material at high speed. The cutting tool is then brought to the material and removes tiny amounts of material until the desired shape and dimensions are achieved. The removed material is called chips and is cleared away by the machine.
After turning, the finished part is inspected, and any necessary finishing or polishing is completed. Our CNC turning service is a precise and efficient method for creating cylindrical shapes and is used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medical.
CNC Turning at Prototek
OEM:
Acra-Turn, Atrump, Daewooo, Doosan, Enco, Haas, Hardinge, Hurco, Mazak, Trak Lathe
Lead Time:
5 – 22 Days
Max Dimensions:
XYZ
Diameter
Swing
84 x 34 x 30 in
12 in
26 in
2,133.6 x 863.6 x 762 mm
304.8 mm
660.4 mm
Material:
Aluminum, Inconel, Stainless Steel and Steel, Plastics, Titanium, and Other Materials
Prototek's Materials for CNC Turning
Metals
Metals commonly used for CNC turning include aluminum, brass, copper, stainless steel, and carbon steel. Each of these metals has different properties that make them suitable for other applications. For example, aluminum is lightweight and has good corrosion resistance, while brass is easy to machine and has high heat resistance. Stainless steel is solid and corrosion-resistant, while carbon steel is strong and durable. The choice of metal for CNC turning depends on the specific requirements of the project, including strength, durability, cost, and appearance.
We offer many metal alloys and grades. To determine which is best for your project, check out the link below.
Plastics
Plastic materials, such as acetal (POM), nylon, polycarbonate (PC), and polypropylene (PP), are widely used for CNC turning due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. These materials offer unique properties, such as high strength, resilience to impact and wear, chemical resistance, and ease of machinability, making them suitable for various applications, including the food industry. Plastic materials offer design flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and excellent physical and mechanical properties for CNC turning.
To see a list of our most commonly used plastic materials, click the link below.
Designing Parts for CNC Machining
When designing components for CNC turning lathes, several essential factors must be considered. The first is the type of material being used. Different materials have different properties; some require specialized tooling or cutting techniques to achieve the desired result. The second is the size and shape of the component. Turning machines can vary in capabilities and limitations, so ensuring the design is optimized for the machine being used is essential.
Additionally, the part’s orientation during machining can affect the outcome, so carefully considering the setup is critical. Finally, the tolerances and surface finishes required must be considered, as these will affect the cost and time needed for the machining process. In summary, designing components for CNC turning lathes requires careful consideration of material properties, machine capabilities, part orientation, and desired tolerances and finishes.
| Feature | Recommended | Feasible Minimum | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Holes |
ø = Standard Drill Bit Sizes |
|
|
|
Internal Edges |
0.010 in |
|
|
|
Minimum Features |
0.10 in |
Ø0.060 in |
|
|
Thin Walls |
Metal: 0.03 in Plastics: 0.06 in |
Metal: 0.02 in |
|
|
Threads |
Length: 3ø |
|
|
|
Tolerances |
|
± 0.0002 in |
w (width) | d (depth) | r (radius) | ø (diameter) | in (inches) | ± (plus or minus) | < (less than) | ≤ (less than or equal to) | > (greater than) | ≥ (greater than or equal to) | M# (standard thread size)
| Feature | Recommended | Feasible Minimum | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Holes |
ø = Standard Drill Bit Sizes |
|
|
|
Internal Edges |
0.25 mm |
|
|
|
Minimum Features |
2.5 mm |
ø1.5 mm |
|
|
Thin Walls |
Metal: 0.8 mm |
Metal: 0.5 mm |
|
|
Threads |
Length: 3ø |
Size: M2 |
|
|
Tolerances |
|
± 0.005 mm |
w (width) | d (depth) | r (radius) | ø (diameter) | mm (millimeter) | ± (plus or minus) | < (less than) | ≤ (less than or equal to) | > (greater than) | ≥ (greater than or equal to) | M# (standard thread size)
CNC Turning Finishes
When selecting the right finish for your CNC turning project, several factors must be considered. Firstly, think about the material that will be used for the project. For example, brass and aluminum typically look their best with a high-polish finish, while a satin finish is better suited for stainless steel. Secondly, consider the function of the finished product – will it be used for ornamental purposes or practical applications? If it’s a valuable item, a matte finish may be better suited as it hides scratches and wears better. Finally, consider the machining process – intricate designs may require a finer finish to ensure all details are crisp and clean. Ultimately, it’s essential to weigh all these factors before deciding on the best finish for your CNC turning project to ensure the final product is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Why choose Prototek for your next project?
Prototek offers high-quality CNC turning services with precision, accuracy, and speed. We specialize in producing complex parts with tight tolerances and provide various materials, including exotic alloys and plastics. Our experienced machinists and engineers use state-of-the-art equipment and software to deliver consistent quality and on-time delivery of each project. We also provide value-added services, such as design assistance, material selection, and finishing options, to meet customer requirements. Prototek is the ideal partner for any project requiring CNC turning services, offering expert advice, fast turnaround, and a commitment to excellence.
