Machining Services:
CNC Turning Parts
Parts in days anywhere in the USA.
Our CNC Turning service offers:
- 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 Turning?
CNC turning is a subtractive manufacturing process that involves using a CNC lathe to shape a workpiece by rotating it against stationary cutting tools. This precision-focused process can create highly complex cylindrical parts with tight tolerances. At our company, we take pride in our advanced lathes for CNC turning machines. Equipped with live tooling technology, these lathes allow us to perform turning and milling functions in the same setup, making them incredibly versatile. As a result, we can quickly create intricate and complex parts. Additionally, our CNC turning service is well-suited for production runs, and we are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service by fully utilizing this technology.
How does CNC Turning work?
CNC turning is a manufacturing process in which a stationary cutting tool removes material from a rotating workpiece, shaping it into a cylindrical and symmetrical object. This process is carried out using a computer-controlled machine known as a CNC lathe or turning center. Subsequently, the CNC turning lathe is programmed to move the cutting tool along the workpiece according to the shape and dimensions programmed into its software.
The CNC turning process typically begins with securing the raw material to the lathe spindle, which rotates the material at high speed. The cutting tool removes tiny amounts of material until the desired shape and dimensions are achieved. The removed material is referred to as chips and cleared away by the machine.
The finished machined part is inspected following the turning process, and any necessary finishing or polishing is completed. Our CNC turning service offers a precise and efficient method for creating cylindrical shapes and is utilized in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medical.
CNC Turning Advantages
CNC turning has revolutionized the way products are designed and manufactured. The following are a few of the advantages of CNC turning:
- Precision & Accuracy - Programmable to tight tolerances.
- Automation - Faster production times.
- Versatility - Wide range of materials for variety of industries and applications.
CNC Turning Disadvantages
While there are a lot of advantages to turning, 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 Turning at Prototek
Turning Machine Companies:
Acra-Turn, Atrump, Daewooo, Doosan, Enco, Haas, Hardinge, Hurco, Mazak, Trak Lathe
Lead Time:
5 – 22 Days
Max Diameter:
13.75 in (349.3 mm)
Max Swing Length:
36 in (914.4 mm)
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 Condition:
Sharp edges are broken and deburred by default.
Surface Finish:
the standard finish is As Machined: Ra 126 µin / Ra 3.2µm or better. Additional finishing options can be specified when getting a quote.
Material:
Aluminum, Inconel, Stainless Steel and Steel, Plastics, Titanium, and Other Materials
Prototek's Materials
Metals
- Aluminum
- Brass
- Bronze
- Copper
- Nickel Based High Temperature Alloys:
- Inconel
- Invar
- Kovar
- Nitronic 60
- Stainless Steel
- Steel
- Titanium
- Tool Steel
Plastics
- ABS
- Acrylic
- Acetal
- HDPE
- Nylon
- PEEK
- Polycarbonate
- Polypropylene
- Teflon/PTFE
- ULTEM
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.
Designing Parts for CNC Machining
When designing components for CNC turning lathes, several essential factors must be considered. The first is the type of material being used. Different materials have different properties; some require specialized tooling or cutting techniques to achieve the desired result. The second is the size and shape of the component. Turning machines can vary in capabilities and limitations, so ensuring the design is optimized for the machine being used is essential.
Additionally, the part’s orientation during machining can affect the outcome, so carefully considering the setup is critical. Finally, the tolerances and surface finishes required must be considered, as these will affect the cost and time needed for the machining process. In summary, designing components for CNC turning lathes requires careful consideration of material properties, machine capabilities, part orientation, and desired tolerances and finishes.
| Feature | Recommended | Feasible Minimum | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Holes |
ø = Standard Drill Bit Sizes |
|
|
|
Internal Edges |
0.010 in |
|
|
|
Minimum Features |
0.10 in |
Ø0.060 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 |
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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Holes |
ø = Standard Drill Bit Sizes |
|
|
|
Internal Edges |
0.25 mm |
|
|
|
Minimum Features |
2.5 mm |
ø1.5 mm |
|
|
Thin Walls |
Metal: 0.8 mm |
Metal: 0.5 mm |
|
|
Threads |
Length: 3ø |
Size: M2 |
|
|
Tolerances |
Metal: ISO 2768 Standards or ± 0.127 mm Plastic: ± 0.254 mm |
Metal: sub ± 0.0254 mm (please inquire) Plastic: ± 0.0508 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 Turning Finishes
When selecting the right finish for your CNC turning project, several factors must be considered. Firstly, think about the material that will be used for the project. For example, brass and aluminum typically look their best with a high-polish finish, while a satin finish is better suited for stainless steel. Secondly, consider the function of the finished product – will it be used for ornamental purposes or practical applications? If it’s a valuable item, a matte finish may be better suited as it hides scratches and wears better. Finally, consider the machining process – intricate designs may require a finer finish to ensure all details are crisp and clean. Ultimately, it’s essential to weigh all these factors before deciding on the best finish for your CNC turning project to ensure the final product is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Prototek's
Other CNC Manufacturing Capabilities
Why choose Prototek for your next project?
Prototek offers high-quality CNC turning services with precision, accuracy, and speed. We specialize in producing parts with tight tolerances and provide various materials, including exotic alloys and plastics. Our experienced machinists and engineers use state-of-the-art equipment and software to deliver consistent quality and on-time delivery of each project. We also provide value-added services, such as design assistance, material selection, and finishing options, to meet customer requirements. Prototek is the ideal partner for any project requiring CNC turning services, offering expert advice, fast turnaround, and a commitment to excellence.
