Machining Service:
CNC Milling Parts
Our high-precision CNC milling services offer the following:
- Repeatability
- High Dimensional Tolerances
- Custom Prototypes and End-Use Parts
- Instant and Engineer-Assisted Quotes
- Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, and ITAR
- Instant and Engineer-Assisted Quotes
- Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, and ITAR
-
Instant and
Engineer-Assisted
Quotes - 100+ Materials
-
40+ Surface
Finishes -
Certifications:
ISO 9001:2015,
AS9100D, and ITAR -
In-House Services: 3D Printing,
CNC Machining, Urethane Casting,
and Sheet Metal Fabrication
Our Process is Simple.
Upload a CAD file and request a quote.
Our team will start production.
Once complete, it passes through quality control.
Lastly, our team ships the part(s) to you.
What is CNC Milling?
CNC milling is an efficient manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machines rather than a manual machine to shape and cut materials like metals, plastics, and composites. This technology precisely controls the movement of the cutting tools, allowing for the creation of complex shapes with high accuracy and consistency. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer goods use CNC milling to produce high-quality components that meet strict requirements.
How does a CNC milling machine work?
The customer gave us a CAD drawing of their project. Our engineers used CAM software to create a CNC program from this drawing. Next, we set up the CNC machine with the right cutting tools and secured the material to the work table with a vice. The type of milling machine we choose depends on what the part needs in terms of specifications and complexity. Once everything is ready, the machinist enters the code using the computer interface and starts the machining process. The machine then uses high-speed rotating cutting tools to remove material from the workpiece until the final part is ready. After milling, the part goes to our finishing department for additional work to ensure it meets the required specifications.
What are the components of a CNC milling machine?
A CNC milling machine has several main parts. The spindle holds and rotates the cutting tool. The worktable secures the workpiece. The axes control the movement of the spindle and the table. The CNC control panel or display unit manages the machine’s operations. The enclosure provides safety and containment. Other components may include an automatic tool changer, a coolant system, sensors, and feedback mechanisms.
Types of Milling Machines at Prototek
Vertical Milling: In vertical milling, the drill press and tools rotate up and down. A typical vertical CNC milling machine has three axes that allow the machine tool to move vertically.
Horizontal Milling: Horizontal milling machines have a similar function to vertical machines, but their tools rotate side to side. Both types of milling machines use identical tools.
3-Axis CNC Milling: In 3-axis milling, the part stays still while the cutting tool moves along three axes. This milling type is best for making shapes, holes, and sharp edges.
4-Axis CNC Milling: 4-axis milling machines move more than 3-axis machines. They can rotate around one additional axis, called the A-axis. This feature allows for cut-outs on the sides of a workpiece.
5-Axis CNC Milling: 5-axis milling machines use all four axes of 4-axis machines and add one more rotational axis, the B-axis. They can make complex parts for different industries.
9-Axis Mill-Turn: A 9-axis milling machine has similar functions to a 5-axis machine but can also perform angle milling and balanced turning. These machines use both the B-axis and extra tools to create detailed parts.
CNC Miling Advantages
CNC milling has changed how products are designed and made. Here are some main advantages of CNC milling:
- Precision and Accuracy: It can be programmed to achieve tight tolerances.
- Automation: It allows for faster production times.
- Versatility: CNC milling uses many materials for various industries and applications.
CNC Milling Disadvantages
Milling has many benefits, but it also has some drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Size Limitations: The dimensions of the milling machine limit the size of the parts you can create.
- Complex Geometries: Making intricate shapes can take longer and cost more because it requires a lot of setup and various tools, but it is still achievable.
CNC Milling at Prototek
OEM:
Akira Seiki, Atrump, Bridgeport, Brother, Daewoo, DMG Mori, Doosan, Haas, Hurco, Kent USA, Lagun, Matsuura, Mazak, OKK, Sharp, Sodick
Lead Time:
5 – 22 Days
Max Dimensions:
84 x 40 x 30 in (2134 x 1016 x 762 mm)
Prototek has many machines with different dimensions. This is the largest dimension available.
General Tolerances:
Tolerances on metals will be held to ISO 2768 standards or ± 0.005 in (± 0.127 mm) unless otherwise specified. Plastics and composites will be ± 0.010 in ( ± 0.254 mm).
Precision Tolerances:
Prototek can manufacture and inspect to tight tolerances including sub ± 0.001 in tolerances, per your drawing specifications and GD&T callouts.
Threads & Tapped Holes:
Prototek can accommodate any standard thread size. We can also machine custom threads; these will require a manual quote review.
Edge Conditions:
Sharp edges are broken and deburred by default.
Surface Finish:
The standard finish is As Machined: Ra 126 µin / Ra 3.2 µm or better. When requesting a quote, additional finishing options can be specified.
Material:
Metals: Aluminum, Bearing Bronze, Brass, Bronze, Carbon Steel, Copper, Phosphor Bronze, Silicon Aluminum Bronze, Stainless Steel, Steel, Titanium
Plastics: ABS, Acrylic, Acetal, HDPE, Nylon, PEEK, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, Radel, Ultem
Types of Mills:
Vertical Mill, Horizontal Mill, 3-Axis, 4-Axis, 5-Axis, 9-Axis Mill-Turn
Prototek's Machining Materials
At Prototek, we provide CNC milling services using various high-quality materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, engineering plastics, and specialty alloys. Our modern CNC machines can accurately shape these materials to meet your needs. Our skilled team works with you to choose the best material for your project, ensuring excellent results every time.
Metals
Plastics
Other Materials
- G-10
- Machined Ceramics:
- Macor
- Wood
Does your project require a material not on our list?
Let us know if your project requires materials that are not on the list! We can accommodate other material requests, but quotes may need more time while we source the material.
Design Recommendations
CNC milling creates a variety of high-quality surface finishes, each designed for different needs. Smooth finishes provide excellent flatness and tight tolerances, making them perfect for precision parts. Textured finishes look good and offer benefits like better grip and reduced surface area. Techniques like mirror polishing and bead blasting give ultra-smooth or matte surfaces. Our skilled machinists will work with you to choose the best CNC milling finish that balances appearance, performance, and cost.
| Feature | Recommended | Feasible Minimum | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Cavities and Pockets |
d < 4w |
10ø of the tool |
|
|
Engraving |
0.2 in |
|
|
|
Holes |
ø = Standard Drill Bit Sizes |
|
|
|
Internal Edges |
Corner: r > 1/3 d |
|
|
|
Minimum Features |
0.10 in |
0.02 in |
|
|
Thin Walls |
Metal: 0.03 in Plastics: 0.06 in |
Metal: 0.02 in |
|
|
Threads |
Length: 3ø |
|
|
|
Tolerances |
Metals: ISO 2768 Standards or ± 0.005 in Plastics: ± 0.010 in |
Metals: < ± 0.001 in (please inquire) Plastics: ± 0.002 in |
|
|
Undercuts |
Width: 0.125 in – 1.5 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Cavities and Pockets |
d < 4w |
10ø of the tool |
|
|
Engraving |
5 mm |
|
|
|
Holes |
ø = Standard Drill Bit Sizes |
|
|
|
Internal Edges |
Corner: r > 1/3 d |
|
|
|
Minimum Features |
2.5 mm |
0.5 mm |
|
|
Thin Walls |
Metal: 0.8 mm |
Metal: 0.5 mm |
|
|
Threads |
Length: 3ø |
|
|
|
Tolerances |
Metal: ISO 2768 Standards or ± 0.127 mm Plastic: ± 0.254 mm |
Metal: < ± 0.0254 mm (please inquire) Plastic: ± 0.0508 mm |
|
|
Undercuts |
Width: 3 mm – 40 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 Milling Finishes
CNC milling can produce a wide range of high-quality surface finishes, each with unique characteristics to meet your specific application needs. Moreover, smooth-milled finishes offer exceptional flatness and tight tolerances, ideal for precision milling components. Additionally, textured finishes can add visual interest and provide functional benefits, such as improved grip or reduced surface area. Furthermore, specialized techniques like mirror polishing or bead blasting can create ultra-smooth or matte surfaces. Our skilled machinists will work closely with you to select the optimal CNC milling finish that balances aesthetics, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
Learn More About CNC Machining
Through our resources, you can discover the complexities of CNC Machining and gain insights into creating top-notch designs specifically tailored for this cutting-edge technology.
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Prototek's
Other CNC Manufacturing Capabilities
Why choose Prototek for your next CNC milling project?
Prototek provides various CNC machining processes, including CNC milling, to help with your projects, making us an excellent choice for your needs. We use advanced equipment to machine parts accurately and meet tight tolerances, ensuring high quality throughout the process. Our skilled engineers and technicians offer excellent service and guidance at every step. We also pride ourselves on fast turnaround times, allowing you to meet tight deadlines. Prototek is committed to quality and customer satisfaction, making us a reliable partner for your CNC milling projects.
