We live in an era where innovations in modern manufacturing (in the past twenty years especially) have excelled rapidly. And spearheading many of our manufacturing advancements has been the advent of precision machining.
Precision machining plays a considerable role in creating many of the parts, tools, components and equipment that we use on a day-to-day basis.
From composing tiny parts used in electronics to the parts used in automobiles, boats, rockets and skyscrapers, just about any piece of machinery, product or equipment that requires a high level of accuracy depends on precision machining.
This article covers:
- Precision Machining Definition & Related Terms
- What Applications Precision Machining Are Used For
- The Roles of Precision Machining Across Various Industries
Precision Machining Definition – What is It?
Precision machining is a machining process that uses computer numerically controlled machining and milling tools with the oversight of a precision machinist to shape, cut and remove excess materials from a workpiece to meet the dimensional specifications for a finished part or component.
Since no two parts can be created identically, a permissible degree of deviation is allowed to exist between any two products’ final dimensions.
This permissible deviation is defined as a set of measurable values known as tolerances.
Tolerances play a critical role in the manufacturing process, as finding the right level of tolerance has a direct impact on turnaround time and manufacturing costs.
Other Common Machining Definitions and Roles
Precision Machine (Definition): A high-precision machine tool that is used to achieve extreme levels of accuracy. Examples of machines used in precision manufacturing include lathes, grinders, CNC milling machines, a cutting tool (like saws and drill presses) and even high-speed robotics.
Precision Manufacturing (Definition): Precision manufacturing is defined as a process that removes excess raw material from a workpiece while achieving the tight tolerances required to create a finished product.
CNC Manufacturing (Definition): Computer numerical control (CNC) manufacturing involves a wide range of automated manufacturing processes where CNC machining tools cut, mill and shape raw material to meet specifications defined in CAD software.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD): CAD software helps aid in the creation, analysis, and optimization of a design while serving as the product’s blueprint where Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software then translates those specifications into automated manufacturing instructions for CNC machines.
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What is Precision Machining Used For?
Precision machining is a highly precise and efficient manufacturing process that is used when parts need to be machined with a high degree of accuracy and uniformity. If a part demands tighter tolerances, then high-precision CNC machining tools are used to reach set standards.
Commonly Used Raw Materials in Precision Machining
A wide variety of raw materials are used in modern manufacturing to meet standard machining tolerances and quality control specifications across various industries.
With a part’s tolerance significantly influenced by the material’s composition, a list of commonly used raw materials including engineered plastics can help achieve the desired tolerance and uniformity you seek.
These include materials, such as:
| 7 Common Materials Used in Precision Machining | |
| Materials | Known For: |
| Stainless Steel | Versatility, strength, machinability, and resistance to corrosion |
| Aluminum | Being lightweight, corrosion-resistant, inexpensive, and tolerant-friendly |
| Brass | Holds threads and tolerances well while providing a clean, smooth finish |
| Titanium | Strength to weight ratio and extreme heat and corrosion resistance |
| Copper | Durability, electrical conductivity, and innate corrosion resistance |
| Basic Plastics | Extremely low cost, versatility, durability, and smooth injection moulding |
| Polymer Plastics | Corrosion and abrasion resistance, ability to be cleaned, and strength |
Precision Machining Applications (By Industry)
Much of modern manufacturing is dependent on the wide-scale applications and pinpoint accuracy of precision machining. To gain a better understanding of the importance of precision machining, let’s take a look at how it impacts the following industries:
Aerospace Industry
Precision machining has been serving as the backbone of aerospace innovation because of the extreme accuracies and tolerances that can be achieved. Where single errors can lead to severe damages, precision is a necessity. Additionally, CNC precision machining processes are responsible for making many of the components this industry depends on, such as:
- Navigational systems
- Interior wall panels
- Landing gear ports
- Bushings
Automotive Industry
With the surge in electric vehicles and innovations at the forefront of the automobile industry, precision machining processes are often used to design and develop the exact specifications for a part or component needed before being added to the assembly line. Common examples of machined parts include engine blocks, wheels, water pumps, and transmissions.
Military and Defense Industry
From developing the composite skins on the F35 fighter jet, the communication components on an SAT radio, to prototyping and creating ammunition, precision machining has never been as prevalent as with military and defense. With different nations using different military and defense schematics, the depth of parts and accuracy required is immense and are ripe for CNC machining.
- The Benefits of CNC Precisions Machining
- How CNC Precision Machining Helps Businesses Stay Profitable.
Medical Industry
The medical industry relies on innovations in medical equipment and technology to make advancements that improve our health and way of life. Without precision machining, many of the parts in the medical field wouldn’t be available. Common examples include MRI machines, surgical tools, implants, orthotic devices, safe enclosures and research equipment.
Finding the Right Precision Machining Company
By definition and practice, precision machining is one of the most efficient ways to manufacture complex or custom-made parts.
Depending on your manufacturing needs, a trusted precision machining company can help you design, source, and manufacture high-precision parts that meet your specifications. At Mosey’s, we’ve been machining quality since 1975 while our quality control guarantee keeps you protected.
To discover the tolerances, raw materials, and precision machining processes best suited to your demands, connect with one of our machining specialists today.