What Is The Difference Between CNC Turning and Milling?

CNC turning and milling are both computer-aided procedures, performed in a variety of industrial applications. What characterizes these to procedures used in the machining process, is the use of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) for controlling the machine tools. The main purpose of both procedures is to create patterns and add details to the material being processed (most commonly metal), which cannot be created by hand. With CNC turning and milling procedures the metal is cut into desired dimensions very precisely and accurately.

CNC Turning and Milling - The Main Difference

Although these two procedures are controlled by a computer using a special software and are performed by the use of same machine tolls such as lathes, screw machines and drill presses, turning and milling are two different processes. The main difference is not in the procedure but in the end-product that they create.

CNC Milling

This is a machining procedure performed by a CNC milling machine that is controlled by the commands of a software program, coded with special G-code engineering language. The special G-code controls the speed, location, feed rate and coordination of the movements that the milling machine performs in order to cut and shape the material. Apart from computer control the mill that drills and turns along the determined axes can be also controlled via manual override. This enables the operator to adjust the speed or tweak the process when necessary. Examples for end-products created with CNC milling include mechanical parts such as valves, arms, fixtures, pulleys, linkages and more.

CNC Turning

As stated before, the main difference between CNC turning and milling is the end-product that is generated as a result of the procedure. During the turning process, a single-point cutting tool is inserted parallel to the metal that is being processed. The metal rotates while the cutting tool performs precise cuts with previously determined diameter and depth. One of the main purposes of this procedure is to create metal cuts with tubular or round shapes. Apart from creating outer decorative cuts, CNC turning is also used for creating one or more tabular cavities in the material that is processed. Various machine parts and tools are end-products of CNC turning.

Share on Google Plus

Related Posts: