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CNC Turning

  • Fast & Consistent Production of Cylindrical Parts

  • Delivers Tolerances as Tight as 0.0001 Inches

  • Exceptional Surface Finishes

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Trusted by Industry Leaders
Harley Davidson
3M
Sanmina
Smith & Nephew
Medtronic

How CNC Turning Works

01 Design

A CAD file containing a 2D or 3D digital model of the part becomes the blueprint for the manufacturing process. It enables engineers to tweak and finalize the design prior to production. The CAD file is imported into Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, which converts it into a format the CNC machines can interpret.

Design Preparation
02 Machine Setup

The CNC turning machine is set up for the job. This includes securing the workpiece in a rotating chuck, setting up the required cutting tools and importing the G-code program into the lathe.

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03 Machining

The CNC lathe executes the instructions precisely as the workpiece rotates at high speed, creating the desired shape. Common CNC turning operations include facing, tapered turning, parting, grooving, threading, knurling and reaming. These and other techniques are used to achieve specific geometries, dimensions and finishes on the workpiece.

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Is CNC Turning Right For Your Project?

Advantages

  • Precision & Accuracy

    CNC turning can achieve extremely tight tolerances and produce parts with very high dimensional accuracy.

  • Consistency & Repeatability

    The automated nature of the process ensures that every part produced is identical, which is crucial for mass production and consistent quality.

  • Reduced Waste & Lower Costs

    The exceptional accuracy of CNC turning translates into reduced rework and waste, which helps to reduce per-part costs.

  • Versatility

    CNC lathes can work with a wide variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, allowing for a wide range of applications.

  • Excellent Surface Finish

    CNC turning can produce parts with high-quality surface finishes, which is important for many industrial applications.

Disadvantages

  • Only Cylindrical Patrs

    CNC turning is restricted to creating cylindrical and rotational-symmetry components, limiting its use for more complex shapes.Also, certain features and geometries cannot be machined using this method. Examples include curved holes, extremely thin walls and straight internal edges,

  • Production Limitations

    While precise for single units, the process of producing one unit at a time can make it slow for large batches compared to other methods.

  • Skilled Operators Required

    Skilled operators and programmers are required to setup, maintain and troubleshoot CNC turning machines. Mistakes in CAD/CAM programming can cause costly errors or downtime.

CNC Turning: Cost-Effective, Precise & Proven

Medical Devices

CNC turning’s exceptional accuracy and diversity of materials make it a popular choice for implants, prosthetics, bone screws and surgical instruments. It’s equally accepted as an effective technology for custom and mass-produced devices.

Mechanical Components

CNC turned components have found numerous applications in mechanical systems, where they are used to maintain alignment, connect parts, reduce friction and transmit motion. Mechanical applications of these cylindrical parts include shafts, bearings, pistons and axles.

Fluid Control & HVAC

CNC turning’s compatibility with a wide range of materials make it a common choice for manufacturing fluid control components. These include nozzles, pipe connectors, couplings and heat sinks.

Mechanical Components
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Find the Ideal Machinable Material for Your Part

Compare metals and plastics for CNC machining with full property details, tolerances, and suitability notes. Engineered to help you make informed decisions for precision, durability, and performance.

Download Material Datasheet
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Why Our Customers Choose Fathom

  • Our expert engineers will help you optimize your part designs for production.
  • Our engineering and production teams bring decades of expertise and problem-solving to every project.
  • We offer manufacturing and full post-processing capabilities under one roof for one point of accountability
  • We’re your partner from design and prototyping to bridge and full production.
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Explore Fathom’s Full Range of Manufacturing Equipment

Download our complete machine list for a detailed look at our capabilities across CNC machining, additive, molding, and fabrication.

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