This is CNC turning and this is how it differs from CNC milling

There will be many people in the Netherlands who do not know about CNC machines. It is therefore perfectly logical that they do not know the differences between CNC turning and CNC milling. Fortunately, this article will change that. In addition, we will also explain how these techniques work, because many Dutch people will not know that yet either. We will give a hint, because the differences between these two processes are mainly reflected in the process of machining. The type of products that the machines can deliver also varies considerably. What exactly CNC turning is and how it differs from CNC milling you can read in this article, while the CNC lathes are also explained.

What is CNC turning?

CNC turning is a machining technique. You can do it in a multiple ways. It is possible in a manual way, so you do it by hand. It is also possible to do it computer controlled. A special lathe will be used for this. These lathes can be used horizontally, but vertically is also possible. Which direction is chosen depends on the tolerance and weight of the object that has to be created. A lathe is of course characterized by the fact that the product rotates, which is where the name comes from. Usually round materials are used in this process, although a square material is certainly possible as well. So this also depends on the object that is created using the special lathe.

In the past, of course, the first lathes developed had to be operated by hand, but this is no longer the case. At that time, the benches were turned by means of a pair of turning wheels on the machine. So CNC lathes had to be operated by a real expert at that time. When holding the material, the drill head had to be moved by means of rotating wheels. The drill head cut shapes and objects out of the product underneath, which is basically the same today. Today, however, most of the work is done by computer. This applies to CNC lathes, but CNC milling machines are also usually controlled by computer. This has meant that the operator does not have to constantly keep an eye on the machine, and it is also faster and easier than doing it manually. CNC lathes are often used to produce tubular or round parts.

How are CNC lathes used?

A CNC lathe has a screw clamp, which is a special tool used to hold the material to be machined in place. Such a screw can also be replaced by a socket. It rotates at different speeds, depending mainly on the capacity of the lathe. The material and diameter also play a role. In this way, the machine tool moves on the rotating object, after which it starts to cut away all the material.

CNC milling is possible with a 3D printing service just like CNC turning. Both processes are similar but different. CNC milling is more comparable to drilling or cutting material. Another major difference is that in milling, the material remains in the same place. The tool must therefore rotate and move, while the object remains stationary. This is how a figure is made.