Understanding the Capabilities of CNC Turning and Milling Machines

[Pioneer Cuts]

How are CNC milling and turning different?
For decades, CNC milling has been used synonymously with general CNC machining. However, that can be a grave mistake for project managers and engineers who need the most efficient outcomes. So, these are the primary differences to consider:
A. CNC Milling
As one of the most efficient CNC machining operations, milling machines produce tailored designs for customized parts and components. Machinists progressively remove surface material with multi-axis cutting tools to reveal the desired form. However, this process is somewhat slow compared to other processes because of its limited dimensional operation. So, it’s most ideal for rapid prototyping and small-scale production runs.
B. CNC Turning
This popular machining process usually churns out parts faster than milling, plus the total price of production is often cheaper. That’s because CNC mill cutting tools have a notoriously limited range of motion while turning machines can expose more sides on any given workpiece. Meanwhile, this method isn’t ideal for material conservation but it helps teams create more complex designs for large-scale production without fudging the budget or schedule.

Both methods have their pros and cons, and much of the outcome depends on the materials you use. So, be sure to ask your machining team for more detailed information before planning your next project.