Machining Service:
CNC Milling Parts
Parts in days anywhere in the USA.
Our high precision CNC Milling services offer:
- 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.
Our Digital Manufacturing Process is Simple.
Upload a CAD file and request a quote.
Our team starts production after finalizing project specifications and accepting the quote with you.
When the part has been completed and finished, it passes through quality control.
After your part goes through quality control, our team ships the part(s) to you.
What is CNC Milling?
CNC milling is a precise and efficient manufacturing process that utilizes computer-controlled machines to shape and cut various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites. By carefully controlling the movement of cutting tools with advanced technology, CNC milling enables the production of intricate and complex shapes with exceptionally high precision and repeatability. Moreover, this innovative technology is widely used in aerospace, automotive, medical, and consumer goods industries to fabricate high-quality components that meet the most stringent requirements and specifications.
How does a CNC milling machine work?
The customer provided a CAD drawing of their project, and subsequently, our engineers used CAM software to convert the CAD model into a CNC program. After preparing the CNC machine with the appropriate cutting tools, the material is secured to the work table using a vice. The type of milling machine used depends on the part’s requirements, specifications, and complexity. Once everything is ready, the machinist will use the computer interface to input the code and start creating the component. As a result, the machines cutting edges remove material from a workpiece using rotating cutting tools until the final piece is complete. Following the milling process, the part will undergo further finishing in our finishing department to meet the required specifications.
What are the components of a CNC milling machine?
The main components of a CNC milling machine include the spindle, which holds and rotates the cutting tool; the worktable, where the workpiece is secured; and the axes that control the motion of the spindle and table. The CNC controller or display unit manages the machine’s operations, and the enclosure provides safety and containment. Additional components may include the tool changer, coolant system, sensors, and feedback mechanisms.
Types of Milling Machines at Prototek
Vertical Milling: In vertical milling operations, a drill press and tooling rotate primarily vertically. A typical vertical CNC milling machine has three axes, allowing the tooling to move vertically.
Horizontal Milling: Like vertical milling machines, horizontal milling machines have a principal function, but in horizontal milling, the tooling spins horizontally. Both types of milling machines use similar types of tooling.
3-Axis CNC Milling: In 3-axis milling, the part remains stationary while the cutting tool mills along three different axes—this type of milling machine for applications involving contoured shapes, hole features, and sharp edges.
4-Axis CNC Milling: With 4-axis milling, the machine operates on multiple axes, including an additional rotation around one of the axes, the A-axis – allowing for the creation of cut-outs on the side of a workpiece.
5-Axis CNC Milling: 5-axis milling machines utilize all four axes of 4-axis machining plus an additional rotational axis (B-axis). They are capable of producing complex parts for various industries.
9-Axis Mill-Turn: A 9-axis milling machine has basic capabilities similar to a 5-axis machine but includes angle milling, balanced turning, and more. 9-axis machines use both the B-axis and additional tools to create complex parts.
CNC Miling Advantages
CNC milling has revolutionized the way products are designed and manufactured. The following are a few of the advantages of CNC milling manufacturing:
- Precision & Accuracy - Programmable to tight tolerances.
- Automation - Faster production times.
- Versatility - Wide range of materials for variety of industries and applications.
CNC Milling Disadvantages
While there are a lot of advantages to milling, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
- Size Limitations - Limited to size of of machine.
- Complex Geometries - The more complex means the more time and cost for setups and number of tools, but can be done.
CNC Milling at Prototek
OEM:
Akira Seiki, Atrump, Bridgeport, Brother, Daewooo, 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 Materials
At Prototek, we utilize a wide range of high-quality materials for our CNC milling services. From aluminum and stainless steel to engineering plastics and specialty alloys, our state-of-the-art CNC machines can precisely machine various materials to your exact specifications. Our experienced team works closely with you to select the optimal material for your project, ensuring exceptional 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
Designing parts for CNC milling involves several key considerations to ensure successful manufacturing. Firstly, the process begins with selecting the appropriate materials for the part, considering factors such as strength, stability, and cost. Subsequently, the design should consider the part’s geometry and ensure it can be machined using CNC milling. It entails designing features like pockets, holes, and fillets that can be quickly produced with CNC milling tools.
Furthermore, the design should consider the final part’s tolerances and surface finish requirements. Accurate measurements and precise machining techniques are essential to meet these requirements. Additionally, minimizing the number of setups required during machining is crucial to reduce costs and possible errors.
In conclusion, designing parts for CNC milling necessitates engineering expertise and a practical understanding of the manufacturing process. By optimizing the design for CNC milling, parts can be produced more efficiently and accurately, ultimately leading to higher-quality products and improved production efficiency.
| 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.
Prototek's
Other CNC Manufacturing Capabilities
Why choose Prototek for your next CNC milling project?
Prototek offers a wide range of services to assist you with your CNC milling project, making it an excellent choice for your next endeavor. With our state-of-the-art equipment, we can precision machine parts within tight tolerances, ensuring exceptional accuracy and quality throughout fabrication. Additionally, our experienced team of engineers and technicians is dedicated to delivering excellent service, offering guidance and assistance at every process step. Moreover, we take pride in providing fast turnaround times, granting you the flexibility to meet even the tightest deadlines. Prototek’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes us an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, high-quality partner for their CNC milling project.
