CNC machining is the most popular manufacturing process with diverse operation types, from milling and turning to routing. Among the different operations, the CNC turn-mill operation can leverage both advantages. As a result, manufacturers can machine more complex and precise designs in less time.
This article will explore the CNC Mill Turn Working, the Mill Turning Process, and its benefits.
What is CNC Mill-Turn Technology?
First, what is a CNC mill-turn? It is a manufacturing process in which a cutting tool is fed into a rotating workpiece to remove material to achieve the desired shape. On the other hand, a rotating cutting tool removes material from a stationary workpiece in CNC milling. As a result, milling operations can create more complex shapes. Meanwhile, CNC Turn Milling has dual spindles for both turning and Milling.
Working Principle of CNC Mill Turn Method
CNC turn mills also combine the working principles of the milling process and CNC Turning. The tools can move across the axes, while the workpiece can be adjusted simultaneously. Another thing is that the workpiece and cutting tool both can rotate according to the machining needs. Besides this, other steps are similar to any other CNC process:
- CAD design Creation
- Converting CAD into Digital Instruction
- Tool Setup
- Execution of instruction/machining
CNC turn-mill parts
The CNC Mill Turn center precisely controls the movement of the cutting tools on both spindles. The spindle rotates the workpiece for turning operations, and rotating tools simultaneously carry out milling operations.
The machine’s control system monitors and adjusts the machining process in real-time, ensuring accuracy and repeatability.
CNC Milling Turning Centre or Machine
A CNC Milling Turning Centre can provide high precision and production efficiency. This machine produces complex geometries and diverse material types, streamlining production lines and enhancing the quality of the finished products.
Table: The CNC Milling Turning Machine Components
| Component | Function |
| Spindle | Holds and rotates the tool or workpiece. |
| Turret | Houses multiple tools and rotates to change tools. |
| Chuck | Secures the workpiece in place during machining. |
| Tailstock | Supports the opposite end of the workpiece. |
| Control Panel | Allows operators to program and control the machine. |
| Live Tooling | Enables milling operations during turning. |
| Y-Axis | Allows movement and machining off-center. |
| C-Axis | Enables rotational positioning and machining of the workpiece. |
| Tool Magazine | Stores tools and automatically changes them during machining. |
| Workpiece Loader | Automates the loading and unloading of workpieces. |
The Mill Turn Process: Step-by-Step
This hybrid approach of Turning and Milling produces complex parts with high precision in a single setup.
Here is the step-by-step elaboration of how it works.
Step 1: Programming and Setup
The turn-milling process begins with meticulous programming. Engineers use advanced software to design the part and plan the machining process. They select the appropriate tools and sequence of operations.
Step 2: Material Loading
Once the machine is programmed, the next step is material loading. Operators secure the raw material into the machine’s chuck. Here, proper material positioning is essential for accuracy throughout the machining process.
Step 3: Turning Operations
The machine’s spindle rotates the material at high speeds. Meanwhile, a stationary cutting tool removes material to achieve the desired diameter and surface finish.
Step 4: Milling Operations
Following turning, milling operations add intricate features. This step creates slots, holes, and complex surfaces.
Step 5: Y-Axis Movement
The Y-axis movement allows for off-center milling. This capability is vital for adding features like off-center holes or slots. It significantly expands the possibility of complex shapes and features.
Step 6: Drilling and Tapping
These operations are integrated into the Turn Mill machine. The machine drills holes and then taps them, so the part does not need to be removed from the machine for these operations.
Step 7: Inspection and Finishing
The final step is inspection and finishing. Any necessary finishing touches, such as deburring or polishing, are applied to meet the requirements.
Summing Up
We’ve seen the critical role of CNC Mill Turn in modern manufacturing. Their ability to combine milling and turning operations optimizes production and facilitates manufacturing innovations. As industries are demanding higher precision and efficiency, CNC mill-turn centers
It addresses that demand with efficiency, precision, and overall machining capabilities. In addition, you can also check CNC turning service and CNC Milling separately so that you can have a better understanding of CNC turn-milling
