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A close-up image of machining operations on a lathe machine at work, with sparks flying as it shapes a metal piece.

7 Types of Machining Operations, Explained

Intro In order to get the best results, you need to use the right machining operation. However, there are so many options to consider — where are you supposed to start? In this guide, we’ll explain 7 of the more common types of machining operations…

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A man in an office setting works on a computer with dual monitors displaying CNC milling software for 3D modeling of mechanical parts.

Introduction To Design for CNC Milling

Intro Using a CNC milling machine to fabricate a part is very common today. Even though modern 3-axis CNC machines are very advanced, they still require certain design considerations.  In this intro guide, we’ll explain some common design considerations. By the end, you’ll have a…

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Close-up of metalworking lathe machine cutting a metal piece that sends out bright, fiery sparks, creating precise machined surface finishes.

All About Machined Surface Finishes

Intro The surface finish of your part should be specified on every drawing you submit to a machine shop. It can determine how well your part works and how expensive it is to make. In this quick guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know…

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A CNC machined prototype in operation, with a milling cutter shaping a white block as coolant sprays onto the workpiece, highlighting dynamic water splashes and flying chips.

Why You Should Use CNC Machined Prototypes

Intro When you’re looking to make a new product, you’ll probably start with a prototyping phase. This includes creating physical versions of your product and trying them out. When it comes to prototyping, people typically choose between 3D printing and CNC machining. In a lot…

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Milling machine

All About Plastic Machining

Intro In a lot of cases, plastic is the hardest-working material. In almost any industry, there’s at least one application where plastic does a much better job than metal or wood. Still, people don’t understand how plastic can be machined or used. In this guide,…

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Finishes

How to Improve CNC-Machined Parts with Heat Treatment

Intro Heat treatment is a critical finishing step that can fully transform how a part works. It’s a process that makes parts harder, stronger, and more resistant. In this guide, we’ll explain how you can use heat treatment to improve a CNC-machined part. What Is…

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Male Engineer Using Drill In Factory

9 Considerations When Picking a Machine Shop

Intro If you want to make the most out of your upcoming fabrication project, you need a good machine shop in your corner. The machine shop you choose should be an ally and help you through the process while hitting your specs and delivering on…

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Rapid Axis

Which Is Better, a 3-Axis, 4-Axis, or 5-Axis CNC Machine?

Intro When you’re designing a part, you have to consider which machine will run the part. This entails learning about the different CNC machines on the market. If you’ve done some research, you’ve probably heard machines referred to by how many axes they have. Commonly,…

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Rapid Axis

The 6 Benefits of CNC Turned Parts

Intro When it comes to making small, intricate parts in medium volumes and high precision, it’s hard to overlook the power of a CNC turning machine. For CNC turned parts, it’s possible to get the best possible results at the fastest speeds. In this guide,…

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Rapid Axis

Differences Between Injection Molding and CNC Machining

Intro When it comes to manufacturing a product, you might be torn between CNC machining and injection molding. Both of these are manufacturing methods, and they’re both valid options. Depending on your situation, one of these might be favorable over the other. To better explain…

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Rapid Axis

How to Inspect Precision Machined Parts

Intro After machining a precision part, inspection is a critical step. It ensures that each part is dimensionally perfect and that your customer gets a part that works. Since tolerances are so tight, a simple scale or tape measure won’t work in these cases.  In…

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Rapid Axis

All About Precision CNC Boring and How it Works

Intro Don’t let the name fool you, CNC boring is a very interesting topic. In this post, we’ll be discussing everything about precision CNC boring, how it works, and why it matters to you. When it comes to fabricating precision parts, machinists will often use…

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