Milling and turning are both CNC machining processes. To the untrained eye they can look indistinguishable, but there are several differences in how they operate to complete a desired part.
The "CNC" in "CNC machining" stands for Computer Numerical Control and skilled precision engineers will have the knowledge to operate both CNC turning and milling machines.
CNC Turning
CNC turning is a detailed and intricate method of creating custom parts and components using a turning lathe. Turning can be undertaken manually or via an automated lathe.
This process involves holding a piece of material down in a chuck and rotating it at high speeds while a cutting tool is positioned against it to remove material. Straight cuts, tapers and contours can all be created by changing the angle and depth of the cutting tool.
CNC Milling
Milling is the process of machining using rotary cutters to remove material by advancing a cutter into a work piece. This may be done by varying the direction on one or several axes, and via cutter head speed and pressure.
Whereas CNC turning uses a rotating part for cutting, CNC milling uses a rotating tool. This means that generally while milling tools are moving, the workpiece generally stays in one spot. A CNC milling machine uses a rotating cylindrical tool called a milling cutter.
Our turning and milling service at ANR
At ANR Manufacturing Ltd we have the skills and capacity to take on your CNC turning and milling requirements. We have three CNC turning centres and two manual turning centres as well as a 5-Axis milling machine. This gives our engineers the capability to produce complex parts in a very rapid time, allowing orders to be met on time or before schedule. Get in touch today to find out more.