YUANYI CNC
Get a Quote

CNC Machining Blog

The YuanYi blog shares practical knowledge from our day-to-day experience in CNC machining and precision manufacturing. We write to help engineers, designers, and buyers better understand materials, machining methods, tolerances, surface finishes, and part design, making it easier to plan projects and make better manufacturing decisions.

Top 10 Medical CNC Machining Companies in China
Top 10 Medical CNC Machining Companies in China (2026)

China has become an important sourcing destination for precision medical CNC parts, but medical machining suppliers...

Ceramic CNC machining for precision ceramic parts
Ceramic CNC Machining: Materials, Processes, Tolerances and Design Guide

Ceramics offer excellent wear resistance, electrical insulation, chemical stability, and high-temperature performance, but they are also...

What is investment casting process
What Is Investment Casting? Process, Materials, Benefits & CNC Machining

Investment casting, also called lost wax casting, is a precision metal casting process used to produce...

CNC machining vs 3D printing
CNC Machining vs 3D Printing: Which Is Better for Your Part?

CNC machining and 3D printing can both produce prototypes and end-use parts, but they are best...

What does CNC mean in machining
What Does CNC Mean? CNC Meaning Explained Simply

CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. It means using a computer program to automatically control a...

How CNC machining works from CAD file to finished part
How Does CNC Machining Work? From CAD File to Finished Part

CNC machining works by converting a digital CAD design into programmed machine movements. CAM software creates...

CNC milling parts types and design guide
CNC Milling Parts: Common Types, Examples & Design Guidelines

CNC milling parts are components manufactured from solid metal or plastic stock using CNC milling. Common...

What is a product prototype
What Is a Product Prototype? Types, Process, Methods & Examples

A product prototype is an early version of a product used to test its design, function,...

Face Milling vs Peripheral Milling
Face Milling vs Peripheral Milling: What’s the Difference?

Face milling is mainly used to machine broad, flat surfaces. Peripheral milling uses the cutter’s outer...

alloy steel CNC machined parts in 4140 4340 8620 and 4130
Alloy Steel CNC Machining: Grades, Machinability & Uses

Alloy steel CNC machining is commonly used for parts that need higher strength, wear resistance, fatigue...

Top 13 CNC Machining Companies in China
Top 13 CNC Machining Companies in China (2026 Guide)

If you’re looking for a reliable CNC machining supplier in China, you’ll find thousands of factories...

Precision CNC machining a complex aluminum component
What Is Precision CNC Machining? Process & Tolerances

Precision CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machine tools to produce parts...

Common types of non-ferrous metals including aluminum, copper, brass, bronze, titanium, magnesium and nickel alloy
What Are Non-Ferrous Metals? Types, Properties & Applications

Non-ferrous metals are metals and alloys in which iron is not the primary base metal. Common...

Engineering composite materials including carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal matrix and ceramic composites
What Is a Composite Material? Types, Properties, Examples & Uses

A composite material is made by combining two or more different materials to create properties that...

Anodized CNC aluminum parts in black blue and clear finishes
Aluminum Anodizing Guide: Types, Colors, Thickness & CNC Design Tips

Aluminum anodizing is an electrochemical surface treatment that converts the outer surface of aluminum into a...

Cast iron vs steel properties differences and CNC machining
Cast Iron vs Steel: Differences, Properties & CNC Machining Guide

Cast iron and steel are both iron-based materials, but they behave very differently in manufacturing and...

Galvanized steel vs aluminum for CNC machining
Galvanized Steel vs Aluminum: Which Is Better for CNC Machining?

Galvanized steel generally offers higher stiffness, higher absolute strength, and lower raw material cost. Aluminum is...

Types of gears
Types of Gears: Differences, Applications and How to Choose

Gears transfer motion and power between rotating parts, but different gear types behave very differently. Spur...

Acetal vs Delrin
Acetal vs Delrin: Key Differences, Properties and Machining

Acetal and Delrin are closely related, but they are not exactly the same material. Acetal is...

Sheet Metal Gauge Chart
Sheet Metal Gauge Chart: Steel, Stainless, Aluminum & More

Use the sheet metal gauge charts below to convert common gauge numbers into thickness in inches...

What is aluminum's symbol Al
What Is Aluminum’s Symbol? Chemical Symbol Al Explained

The chemical symbol for aluminum is Al, and its atomic number is 13. The symbol uses...

What is the softest metal cesium comparison
What Is the Softest Metal? Properties, Hardness & Comparison

Cesium is generally considered the softest solid metal, with a Mohs hardness of about 0.2. It...

Density of iron
Density of Iron: kg/m³, g/cm³, lb/in³ & Weight Calculation

The density of pure iron is approximately 7.87 g/cm³, equal to 7,870 kg/m³ or about 0.284...

What Are Metalloids
What Are Metalloids? Elements, Properties, and Uses Explained

Metalloids are elements that have properties between metals and nonmetals. They may look metallic, but they...

CNC operator setting up a CNC milling machine in a modern workshop
How to Use a CNC Machine: Basic Operation Steps

Using a CNC machine means preparing the machine, setting up the workpiece and tools, running the...

Comparison of 3+2 axis machining and simultaneous 5 axis machining on a complex aluminum part
3+2 Axis vs Simultaneous 5 Axis Machining: Which Should You Choose?

When searching for 5-axis machining services, many people come across two machining methods: 3+2-axis machining and...

5-axis CNC machining software optimizing toolpaths for complex curved aluminum components
How 5 axis machining software improves complex part production

Many people assume that high-quality 5-axis machining mainly depends on the CNC machine itself. In reality,...

5-axis CNC machine cutting a complex aluminum part
What Can a 5-Axis CNC Machine Do? Common Questions Answered

A 5-axis CNC machine can machine a part from more directions compared to a standard 3-axis...

5 Axis on a CNC Machine
What Are the 5 Axis on a CNC Machine? X, Y, Z, A and B Axis Explained

Walk into any manufacturing workshop equipped with a 5-axis machining center, and you’ll hear engineers discussing...

CNC system
What Is a CNC System? A Complete Guide to Components & Functions

If we compare a CNC machine to the human body, then the CNC system is equivalent...

cnc machining tools
What Are CNC Machining Tools? Types, Uses & Tool List Explained

Machining tools refer to the tools and equipment used in the machining process to cut material,...

Understanding the 5-axis CNC machine
What Are the 5 Axes on a CNC Machine? Understanding X, Y, Z, A & B Axes

Simply put, a 5-axis CNC machine tool consists of three linear axes (X, Y, Z) and...

metal clippers tool
How to Use Metal Clippers Tool: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Cuts

Discover the ultimate guide to metal cutting tools. Learn how to choose and use the best...

cutting tools electrical
How to Master Cutting Tools Electrical: A Step-by-Step Guide to Selection and Operation

Master cutting tools electrical with our complete guide. Explore best practices, technical specs & industry applications....

plasma-cutting-capabilities
How to Master Plasma Cutting Capabilities: A Step-by-Step Guide to Advanced Techniques

Unlock the full potential of plasma cutting capabilities with our complete guide. Learn best practices, key...

how-do-plasma-cutters-work
How Do Plasma Cutters Work: Your Ultimate Guide to Principles & Applications

Discover how plasma cutters work in our complete guide. Learn key principles, best practices, and advanced...

CNC machining datum reference showing precision part positioning
What Are Datums in CNC Machining? Definition, Types, and Applications

A datum in CNC machining serves as a theoretical reference point, line, or plane that helps...

CNC machining tolerances inspection using CMM measurement
CNC Machining Tolerances: Standards and Accuracy

Modern CNC machining tolerances are influenced by several factors such as the machine’s performance, the characteristics...

CNC wire EDM machine cutting a metal workpiece in a precision machining workshop
What Is a CNC Wire Cut Machine? Wire EDM Process Explained

Wire EDM is like slowly cutting through a metal material with a “live wire.” Its cutting...

CNC milling center
What Is a CNC Machine Shop?

A CNC machine shop is a manufacturing facility that uses CNC machine tools to produce custom...

Engineer reviewing a CAD model for 5-axis CNC machining design and DFM analysis
How to Design Parts for 5 Axis CNC Machining: Practical DFM Tips

Five-Axis Machining does indeed allow access to parts from multiple angles and reduces the number of...

5-axis CNC programming with CAM toolpaths for complex aluminum part
What Is 5-Axis CNC Programming? Toolpaths, CAM & Simulation

5-axis CNC programming is the process of creating toolpaths for a 5-axis CNC machine. The programmer...

What is Rapid Prototyping
What Is Rapid Prototyping? Methods & CNC Applications

Rapid prototyping plays an important role in the development of products.It allows for the fast production...

What is broaching machining
What Is Broaching Machining? How It Works, Types & Common Applications

In modern mechanical manufacturing, CNC milling and CNC turning are widely known, while broaching machining is...

What Is a CNC Router Machine
What Is a CNC Router Machine? Everything You Need to Know

A CNC router is a machining device that uses computer programs to automatically control the movement...

What Is Electron Beam Machining
What Is Electron Beam Machining? Process, Advantages & Applications

Electron Beam Machining is a high-precision, non-traditional machining process that utilizes the high energy generated by...

What Is Runout in Machining
What Is Runout in Machining? Causes, Effects & How to Reduce It

In CNC machining, even if the machine tool has very high precision, runout in the cutting...

How to Program a CNC Machine
How to Program a CNC Machine: A Beginner’s Guide

CNC programming typically involves creating a CAD model, generating toolpaths in CAM software, outputting G-code, and...

cnc machine that cuts wood and metal
The Ultimate Guide to CNC Machines for Cutting Wood and Metal

Discover the ultimate CNC machine that cuts wood and metal with our comprehensive guide. Learn key...

CNC lathe versus CNC mill comparison showing a turning operation on a shaft and a milling operation on a housing
CNC Lathe vs CNC Mill: Differences, Applications & How to Choose

The main difference between a CNC lathe and a CNC mill is what rotates during machining....

cnc cheap
Affordable Precision: The Complete Guide to CNC Cheap Machines

Discover how to find a quality, cheap CNC milling machine without sacrificing performance. Our complete guide...

cnc small
Unlock Precision with CNC Small Machines: A Comprehensive Guide

Explore the complete guide to small CNC machines. Learn best practices and solutions, from key features...

budget cnc milling machine
Affordable Precision: A Complete Guide to Budget CNC Milling Machines

Discover how to find the perfect affordable CNC milling machine for your workshop with our comprehensive...

mini cnc
Master Precision at Home with a Mini CNC Machine

Explore the complete guide to household mini CNC machines: Learn about key technical specifications, industry applications,...

8 axis cnc machine
8 Axis CNC Machines: What Makes Them Different and Why You Need One

Elevate manufacturing excellence with our guide to 8 Axis CNC machines. Explore key features, industry applications...

high precision cnc router
Maximize Your Production Quality with High Precision CNC Routers

Unlock CNC efficiency with our ATC CNC machine guide. Explore CNC router auto tool changer benefits,...

used mill
Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Used Mill

Unlock CNC efficiency with our ATC CNC machine guide. Explore CNC router auto tool changer benefits,...

mini mill dro
Maximize Your Mini Mill’s Potential with Digital Readout (DRO) Technology

Unlock CNC efficiency with our ATC CNC machine guide. Explore CNC router auto tool changer benefits,...

cnc router auto tool changer
CNC Router Auto Tool Changer: Revolutionizing How We Make Parts

Unlock CNC efficiency with our ATC CNC machine guide. Explore CNC router auto tool changer benefits,...

big milling machine
Big Milling Machines: The Backbone of Large-Scale Manufacturing

Explore the ultimate guide to big milling machines. Learn about the key features, industry applications, and...

Ready to Turn Your Design Into Parts?

Share your drawings and requirements with us. We’ll help you review materials, tolerances, machining methods, and finishing options for your project.

Upload Your Drawing
Request A Quote
Upload your drawing and get a quote within 24 hours.
Need an urgent quote? WhatsApp: +86 18002753961（Click）