Machining is a subtractive manufacturing process: material is removed from a blank, by drilling, milling or turning, until the part reaches the dimensions and the surface finish required.
In the project
Machining produces the metal parts that demand accuracy and stiffness, typically the aluminium joints and brackets of the running example, wherever 3D printing falls short. The work belongs to the workshop: it calls for prior training on the machine and for a supervisor to be present (see the workshop rules under safety and quality). On the project side, what matters is to identify early which parts will be machined, what their critical dimensions are, to be carried into the technical design file, and what workshop lead time comes with them.
The choice of cutting parameters, the process plans, the tolerances actually achievable and the programming of CNC machines belong to the manufacturing course and to the workshop staff. The wiki stops at how machining fits into the running of the project.
See also
- 3D printing — the complementary additive process
- Vernier caliper and Dial indicator — checking machined dimensions
- Safety and quality — training and workshop rules
- Manufacturing course (colleagues) — cutting parameters, process plans, tolerances