What is machining?
Machining is the abbreviation of machining, which refers to the process of removing materials by mechanical precision machining. Mechanical processing (machining) mainly includes manual processing and numerical control processing
1. Manual processing refers to the method of processing various materials by manual operation of milling machine, lathe, drilling machine and sawing machine by mechanical workers. Manual processing is suitable for small batch and simple parts production.
2. CNC machining (CNC) refers to the use of numerical control equipment by mechanical workers. These CNC equipment include machining center, turning and milling center, WEDM equipment, thread cutting machine, etc. The vast majority of machining workshops use CNC technology. By programming, the position coordinates (x, y, z) of the workpiece in Cartesian coordinate system are converted into program language. The CNC controller of CNC machine tool controls the axis of CNC machine tool by recognizing and interpreting the program language, and automatically removes materials according to the requirements, so as to obtain the finishing workpiece. CNC machining is a continuous way to process workpieces, which is suitable for large quantities of complex shape parts.
CAD / CAM (computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing) system can be used in machining workshop to program NC machine tools automatically. The geometric shape of parts is automatically converted from CAD system to cam system, and the mechanical workers choose various processing methods on the virtual display screen. When a certain machining method is selected by mechanical workers, the CAD / CAM system can automatically output CNC code, usually G code, and input the code into the controller of CNC machine tool for actual machining operation.
FAQ:
Machining is the process of removing material from a workpiece using mechanical precision tools to achieve the desired shape and dimensions. It includes both manual machining and CNC machining methods.。
Manual machining involves operating machines such as milling, lathe, drilling, or sawing machines by hand. Skilled machinists control the process manually. It’s ideal for small-batch production or simple parts.
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining uses automated equipment controlled by a computer program. Machines like CNC milling centers, turning centers, and WEDM machines precisely remove materials to produce complex shapes.
In CNC machining, engineers write programs that define the toolpath coordinates (X, Y, Z) of the workpiece. The CNC controller interprets these commands and moves the machine’s axes automatically to remove material and create the final product.
CNC machining offers higher precision, faster production, and better repeatability. It can produce complex parts in large quantities, while manual machining is slower and limited to simpler tasks.
Common CNC equipment includes machining centers, turning and milling centers, wire EDM (WEDM) machines, and thread cutting machines. Each is designed for specific material removal and shaping operations.
CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) systems help engineers design parts digitally and automatically generate CNC programs. The CAD model is converted to toolpaths in CAM, which then outputs G-code for machine operation.
G-code is the programming language used to control CNC machines. It defines how the machine moves, including speed, direction, and tool position, to precisely shape the workpiece.
CNC technology improves production efficiency, consistency, and accuracy. It reduces human error and allows companies to handle complex, high-volume production with minimal manual intervention.
CNC machining is ideal for complex, high-precision parts used in industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical equipment—especially when high repeatability and tight tolerances are required.
