Boring vs. Turning: Expert Guide to Metal Fabrication Processes

Since our humble beginnings in 1976 as a job shop and repair company, Technox Machine & Manufacturing has grown into one of the largest complete metal fabrication operations in Chicago. As a one-stop shop, we offer machining, fabricating, grinding, and welding services for a wide range of industries, including steel, food, oil and gas, plastics, paper, textiles, and recycling.

Two of our most popular services are boring and turning. Both processes cut material away from a workpiece to create a new shape, but they do so in different ways. To select the right method for your application, learn more about each process here. 

Boring

In boring, a non-rotating cutting tool—like a drill—removes internal material from a workpiece to create or enlarge holes. Boring must achieve tight tolerances and precise results, requiring the expertise of a skilled technician. The process is performed on a lathe, boring miller, or conventional milling machine.

There are horizontal and vertical boring processes, but horizontal boring is generally more versatile. Vertical boring requires the workpiece to move while the tool is held in place, which translates to limitations in workpiece size. In horizontal boring, the workpiece is kept stationary, enabling larger part sizes, increased production speed, reduced tool deflection, and compatibility with CNC machining. With complex projects, these benefits add up to faster turnaround times and lower price points. 

Turning

Like boring, turning uses a stationary, non-rotating cutting tool. However, instead of removing internal material and increasing inner diameter, turning removes external material from the workpiece, thereby reducing the outer diameter.

CNC turning centers are available in 3-, 4-, and 5-axis varieties. The more axes, the more complex geometries the machine can produce. All turning subtypes—tapered, hard, and spherical—require a cutting tool to remove material. Lathes are best for simple turning projects, while CNC turning centers are ideal for more complex capabilities that require multiple tool changers and chip conveyors.

Premium Boring and Turning Services from Technox

At Technox Machine & Manufacturing, we provide many types of boring and turning services. Our state-of-the-art facility houses cutting-edge machinery and technology, including 15-ton lifting cranes to manage especially large parts. Our horizontal boring and CNC horizontal boring machines offer 5-axis capacity and a maximum work envelope of 120” x 152” x 70”, allowing us to produce complex parts with tolerances of ± 0.0005”. We work with a vast array of materials, including:

• Steel
• Stainless steel
• Aluminum
• Brass
• Copper
• Bronze
• Nickel
• Cast iron
• Inconel
• Hastelloy
• Plastics

Our horizontal, vertical, and CNC turning capabilities include 3- and 4-axis equipment that can produce parts with diameters up to 152” and lengths up to 240”, with tolerances of ± 0.001”. 

Through stringent testing and inspecting during all phases of production, Technox consistently demonstrates a commitment to high quality with every project. We work closely with our clients to deliver complete metal fabrication solutions and finishing services, which include painting, powder coating, plating, and more. From prototypes to high-volume production runs, we manage everything in-house to keep your costs low and ensure quick delivery. Contact us to learn more about our services, or request a quote to start your project today.