Milling vs. Turning: Knowing the Best Option for Your Workpiece
06 August 2021One thing about the metal forming industry that makes it truly versatile is that it can maximise a lot of machining processes. And as more processes can be automated by computers, the industry can only expect faster improvements over its product generation in the long run.
Two processes that are impactful to the metal forming industry are milling and turning. These processes are already powerful enough to generate a diverse set of metal products. But once they are matched and combined with computer numerical control technology, these processes can precisely produce more metal parts and products in just a short time.
Milling and turning, however, can be effective in certain situations and applications. Here are some things that you should know about the processes.
Milling
Milling is a machining process wherein some portions of a workpiece are progressively removed by rotating multipoint cutting tools. These cutting tools are typically controlled by a computer, allowing them to move around X, Y, and Z axes. The workpiece, on the other hand, remains stationary in its place as it is being held by the clamps on the machine bed.
One great thing about the milling process is that it can conserve the workpiece effectively. Through its accurate cuts, this specific process is guaranteed to not waste a lot of materials during the operations. The tools utilised for the process are likewise expected to last for a long time. They can also carry out the milling of complex short-run production parts, prototype parts, and precision components and parts. The production capabilities of milling often include chemical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal processes.
The process of milling is known to work best with parts that are not round. It can likewise generate products from start to finish, no matter what their sizes are.
Turning
Turning is another machining process that entails the turning of the materials while the cutting tool stays stationary. The materials or workpieces are often held in a rotating spindle through a chuck. As the spindle spin, the turret where a cutting tool is attached moves toward the workpiece, shaping it according to the intended design and appearance.
Just like milling, the turning process can also be controlled by a computer. But one advantage of turning over the milling process is that the former can generate complex and accurate profiles. The turning process can likewise generate more products compared to milling. Another advantage of the turning process is that it can create an excellent surface finish. It does not even require too much energy when conducting the entire process. Turning can conduct operations like boring, drilling, and facing.
The turning process can work well with round products. Some products that can be created out of turning are bolts, ball bearings, and casters.
Understanding the principles of milling and turning can help you identify the best option for your workpiece. If you still need some help, you can always contact us at Kinetic Engineering.
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