CNC Turning
CNC turning is a machining process where a rotating workpiece is fed into a stationary cutting tool to produce cylindrical parts. Key parameters include cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and tool geometry. Essential for producing parts with high precision and surface finish. We also do a lot or turning in brass and Aluminium bronze.
Machining Brass & Aluminium Bronze
- Brass: Known for excellent machinability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Commonly used in applications requiring precision and durability.
- Aluminium Bronze: Offers high strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance, especially in marine environments. Suitable for demanding industrial applications.
Typical Parameters for Brass & Aluminium Bronze Turning
Brass
• Cutting Speed: Approximately 90–210 m/min (300–700 ft/min).
• Feed Rate: 0.05–0.15 mm/rev (0.002–0.006 in/rev).
• Depth of Cut: 0.5–2 mm (0.02–0.08 in).
• Tooling: Carbide inserts with positive rake angles (3°–14°).
• Coolant: Recommended to reduce heat and improve surface finish
Aluminium Bronze
• Cutting Speed: Approximately 60–80 m/min (200–260 ft/min).
• Feed Rate: 0.05–0.15 mm/rev (0.002–0.006 in/rev).
• Depth of Cut: 0.5–2 mm (0.02–0.08 in).
• Tooling: Uncoated carbide or high-speed steel (HSS) with minimal top rake.
• Coolant: Essential to prevent overheating and tool wear.
Capabilities / CNC Lathes
Download our recent capabilities equipment summary table
Lifting & Inspection
- Overhead Cranes: 2 × 10-ton, 1 × 5-ton
- Inspection Equipment: QCT Quantum 4-665 (Manual)
- Table: X 600 mm × Y 600 mm × Z 500 mm
- Software: QCT Inspect 3D-PRO
CNC Turning FAQs
What is CNC turning?
CNC turning is a machining process where a rotating workpiece is shaped using stationary cutting tools. It is ideal for producing cylindrical, conical, and symmetrical components.
What types of parts are made using CNC turning?
Common turned parts include shafts, bushes, pins, collars, flanges, and threaded components. CNC turning is widely used across industrial and precision engineering sectors.
What materials can be CNC turned?
Materials include aluminium, stainless steel, carbon steel, brass, copper, plastics, and specialist alloys. Material choice depends on strength, wear resistance, and application.
What tolerances can CNC turning achieve?
CNC turning can routinely achieve tolerances of ±0.01 mm or better, depending on part geometry and material.
Can CNC turning handle complex features?
Yes. Modern CNC lathes can perform drilling, boring, grooving, threading, and milling operations in a single setup, improving accuracy and reducing lead times.
Is CNC turning suitable for high-volume production?
CNC turning is highly efficient for both low and high-volume production, offering consistent quality and repeatability.
Can you combine turning and milling?
Yes. Turn-mill operations allow complex parts to be completed in fewer setups, reducing handling and improving precision.
What lead times should I expect?
Lead times depend on complexity, quantity, and material availability. Repeat parts can often be produced quickly once programs are established.
What challenges arise when machining aluminium bronze?
Aluminium bronze is tough and abrasive, requiring sharp tools and proper cutting parameters to avoid rapid tool wear.
How can tool life be extended when machining these materials?
Using appropriate tooling, maintaining optimal cutting speeds and feeds, and employing effective cooling strategies can significantly enhance tool longevity.
What industries commonly use brass and aluminium bronze?
Brass is widely used in plumbing, electrical, and decorative applications, while aluminium bronze is favoured in marine, aerospace, and heavy-duty industrial sectors.
Why is brass easy to machine?
Brass has a high machinability rating (100), allowing for high-speed machining with reduced tool wear and excellent surface finish.
