CNC Milling: Definition, Process and Applications
What is CNC Milling?
CNC milling is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses a computer numerical control (CNC) system to control a multi-point cutting tool (usually a milling cutter) to cut solid materials to form a specific shape or design. In this process, the workpiece is firmly fixed to the machine tool, while the milling cutter rotates at high speed to systematically remove material. This method is particularly suitable for machining flat surfaces, but it can also produce very complex shapes.

CNC Milling Process
The CNC milling process generally includes the following steps:

Design: The required part model is designed using 3D CAD software.

Programming: The CAD model is converted into a CNC program, which contains instructions for machine movement and cutting operations.
Clamping: The workpiece is fixed to the machine tool and the cutting tool is installed.
Machining: The CNC machine tool cuts the workpiece according to the program instructions.
Post-processing: After the machining is completed, some post-processing operations such as polishing or coating may be required.
Types of CNC Milling
CNC milling can be divided into several types, including:

Face milling: Cutting flat surfaces.
End milling: machining slots, holes and contours.
Peripheral milling: cutting slots and grooves.
Contour milling: machining complex shapes and contours.
Advantages of CNC milling
High precision: CNC milling has extremely high precision and repeatability.
Versatility: can process parts of various materials.
Efficiency: CNC machines can run automatically, reducing labor costs and improving production efficiency.
Complexity: can process complex shapes that are difficult to process with traditional methods.
Applications of CNC milling
CNC milling has a wide range of applications in various industries, including:

Aerospace: manufacturing wings, fuselage parts, engine parts, etc.
Automotive: producing engine blocks, transmission parts, chassis parts, etc.
Medical: manufacturing implants, prostheses, surgical instruments, etc.
Electronics: manufacturing circuit boards and electronic housings.
Molds: manufacturing molds, stamping dies, fixtures, etc.
CNC Milling vs. CNC Turning
CNC milling and CNC turning are both subtractive manufacturing processes, but there are differences between the two:

CNC milling: the workpiece is stationary and the cutting tool moves.

CNC turning: the workpiece rotates and the cutting tool is stationary.

Summary
CNC milling is a powerful and versatile manufacturing process that has revolutionized the way parts are made. The high precision, high efficiency and high flexibility of CNC milling make it widely used in many industries.