Understanding CNC Turning and Milling
While both processes fall under the umbrella of CNC machining, they serve different purposes and excel in different applications.
CNC Turning: Perfect for Cylindrical Parts
In CNC turning, the workpiece spins while a stationary cutting tool shapes it. This method is ideal for creating symmetrical, round, or conical parts like shafts, bushings, and threaded fittings. Our lathes (including 5-axis models with live tooling) can handle everything from simple diameters to intricate geometries with tight tolerances.
Key features of our CNC turning capabilities:
- Live Tooling: Allows milling, drilling, and tapping without removing the part from the lathe.
- Sub-Spindle Options: Enable complete machining in a single setup, reducing handling errors.
- High-Pressure Coolant: Improves tool life and surface finish.
Tolerances as tight as ±0.0005″ because “close enough” isn’t in our vocabulary.
CNC Milling: Versatility for Complex Shapes
Milling, on the other hand, uses rotating cutting tools to remove material from a stationary workpiece. It’s the go-to process for parts with flat surfaces, pockets, slots, or intricate contours. Our vertical machining centers handle 3D profiling, deep cavities, and high-detail features with ease.
Why choose milling?
- Multi-Axis Machining: 3-axis, 4-axis, and full 5-axis capabilities for complex geometries.
- High-Speed Spindles: Maintain accuracy even in tough materials.
- Rigid Construction: Minimizes vibration for smoother finishes.
Our Equipment: Built for Performance
We invest in machinery that delivers results, not excuses. Here’s a snapshot of what’s running in our shop.
CNC Lathes
- Puma 2500 LY 5-Axis Lathes: With Y-axis milling, live tooling, and rigid tapping, these machines handle the most challenging jobs.
- Puma 240 MSB 4-Axis Sub-Spindle Lathe: Perfect for backside operations without re-fixturing.
- Daewoo Puma 12S: A workhorse for high-tolerance turning and threading.
CNC Vertical Machining Centers
Our mills tackle everything from aluminum prototypes to hardened steel production runs. With rapid traverse rates and high rigidity, they’re built for speed without sacrificing accuracy.
Choosing the Right Process
Not sure whether your part needs CNC turning or milling? Here’s a quick guide:
Turn it if
The part is cylindrical, needs concentricity, or requires threading.
Mill it if
The design has flat surfaces, complex contours, or non-symmetrical features.
For components that need both, our lathes with live tooling bridge the gap, reducing setups and improving consistency.
Why Auglaize Erie Machine?
- Experience: Decades of solving tough machining challenges.
- Equipment: Top-tier lathes and mills that hold tolerances tighter than most shops dream of.
Whether you’re prototyping or ramping up production, we’re ready to put our machines to work for you.