Customization Process of CNC Machined Parts

Customization Process of CNC Machined Parts

I. Requirements Confirmation (Most Crucial Initial Stage)

This is the step that determines success or failure.

Customers need to provide:

Drawings (2D/3D, common formats: PDF, STEP, IGES)

Material requirements (aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, plastic, etc.)

Quantity (sample/small batch/large batch)

Accuracy requirements (e.g., ±0.01mm)

Surface treatment requirements (anodizing, electroplating, sandblasting, etc.)

Usage scenario (helps with process optimization)

If complete drawings are unavailable, many factories can also provide:

Sample processing

Structure optimization & Manufacturability recommendations (DFM)

II. Process Assessment and Quotation

Engineers will do the following:

Analyze the part structure (whether there are deep cavities, thin walls, undercuts, etc.)

Determine the machining method

CNC turning

CNC milling (3-axis/4-axis/5-axis)

Mill-turn

Assess machining difficulty & risks

Calculate machining time → Provide quotation & delivery date

This stage will determine:

Which machine tool to use

Whether multiple processes are needed

Whether costs can be reduced

III. Programming and Tooling Preparation

Entering the actual "tool-making" preparation stage. CAM Programming (e.g., UG, Mastercam, PowerMill)

Tool Selection (End Mills, Ball End Mills, Drills, Reamers, etc.)

Jig/Stem Design (Ensuring Positioning Accuracy)

First Piece Machining Plan Confirmation

IV. CNC Machining (Core Step)

The formal machining process is typically:

Roughing

Quickly Remove Excess Material

Leave Finishing Allowance

Semi-Finishing

Correct Shape and Position

Reduce Deformation

Finishing

Achieve Final Dimensions & Surface Quality

Secondary Machining (If applicable)

Tapping, Chamfering, Drilling, Milling

Experienced operators will adjust in real-time:

Spindle Speed/Feed

Tool Compensation

Cooling Method

V. Surface Treatment (As Required)

Common options include:

Anodizing (Natural/Black/Colored)

Sandblasting + Anodizing

Electroplating (Nickel Plating, Chromium Plating)

Blackening

Polishing/Brushing

Heat Treatment (Tempering, Quenching)

Dimensional changes before and after surface treatment must be considered in advance!

VI. Quality Inspection

This step determines whether delivery is possible.

Common Inspection Methods:

Vernier Caliper / Micrometer

Height Gauge

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Thread Gauge / Go/No-Go Gauge

Inspection Contents:

Dimensional Tolerances

Geometric Tolerances

Appearance

Assembly Compatibility

VII. Packaging and Delivery

Scratch-proof, rust-proof, and shockproof packaging

Part number & batch identification

Shipping according to customer requirements