Comprehensive Guide to CNC Milling: From Design to Production

We have been discussing the various steps in the CNC milling process. Our previous articles covered the initial steps of developing the prototype, outlining specifications, and designing the 2D and/or 3D CAD rendering of the final part or component. We then covered how the CAD design needs to be exported in a format that can be read by the specific CNC milling equipment that will be used.  We left off with the machinist setting up and preparing the CNC milling machine for production. Today, we will look at the final steps in the CNC milling process.

Place the Raw Material

Next, the machinist will place the raw material or workpiece that is going to undergo the CNC milling process on to the table in preparation for producing the parts. A benefit of the CNC milling process is that unlike with traditional machines, CNC machining centers have the capability of performing multiple processes concurrently across different surfaces of the material. This significantly expedites the production process while improving efficiency.

Begin the CNC Milling Operation

Finally, after all of the steps are complete, the machinist will make one final check and then the CNC milling process will commence. During production, the machine shop operator will monitor what is happening and if any anomaly or problem is detected, the CNC milling machine will be stopped. Once the issue is fully investigated and resolved, the CNC milling process will then resume.

As you can see, CNC milling is quite a sophisticated process. It takes time and machine shop expertise to carry out a successful CNC milling project. JW Machine is an ISO 9001/AS 9100 certified machine shop with qualified machinists who are expertly trained on various types of precision CNC machining processes including CNC milling, CNC turning, small part machining, close tolerance machining, laser cutting, laser engraving and more. If you have an upcoming prototypes to production manufacturing or contract manufacturing project, we welcome the opportunity to partner with you. Give your friends at JW Machine a call today!