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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.

Comparison of a CNC machine using a standard vise and custom tooling to hold and position a machined aluminum part.
What Is Tooling in Manufacturing? Types, Examples & Applications

Tooling in manufacturing refers to the tools, fixtures, molds, and other equipment used to make parts...

Cross-sectional comparison of a blind hole and a through hole showing hole depth, drill point angle, and hole exit.
What Is a Blind Hole? Types, Dimensions & Machining Guidelines

A blind hole is a hole that does not go all the way through a part....

CNC milling machine cutting a metal workpiece with a rotating cutting tool and metal chips
What Is CNC Cutting? How Do CNC Machines Cut Metal?

CNC cutting is a computer-controlled manufacturing process in which cutting tools, laser beams, plasma arcs, or...

Side-by-side comparison of a CNC router, CNC milling machine, and CNC lathe used for machining metal parts
Which CNC Machine Is Best for Metal Parts? Mill vs. Lathe vs. Router

The short answer: choose a CNC mill for precision parts with non-rotational geometries, a CNC lathe...

Dual-spindle CNC router cutting aluminum plates with rotating tools and metal chips
Can a CNC Router Cut Metal? Aluminum vs. Steel Explained

Yes, a CNC router can cut metal, but there are limits. Softer metals such as aluminum,...

Transition metals periodic table infographic showing the d-block elements and their common applications
What Are Transition Metals? Properties, Examples & Uses

Transition metals are metallic elements found mainly in the d-block of the periodic table. They have...

Precision CNC machining setup for large parts showing machine access, workholding and inspection planning
Machining Large Parts: CNC Processes, Setup, Accuracy & Inspection

Machining large parts requires more than a CNC machine with enough travel. As part size increases,...

5-axis toolholder and cutting tool selection balancing reach, rigidity and machining clearance
5-Axis Toolholders and Cutting Tools: How to Balance Reach, Rigidity, and Clearance

In 5-axis machining, the best toolholder is not simply the shortest, longest, or most rigid option....

5-axis CNC setup showing rigid workholding, tool access, alignment and rotary clearance
5-Axis CNC Setup: Workholding, Alignment, and Accuracy

A reliable 5-axis CNC setup must hold the workpiece securely while keeping enough clearance for the...

5-axis CAM simulation checking toolpaths and collision risks before CNC machining
How 5-Axis CAM Simulation Prevents Tool Collisions

5-axis CAM simulation helps prevent machining collisions by checking tool movements, holder clearance, fixture positions, and...

CNC machining cost factors including material, setup, machining, inspection, and finishing
How Much Does CNC Machining Cost? Pricing Factors & Examples

CNC machining cost depends on material selection, part geometry, machining time, setup requirements, tolerances, and order...

CNC chatter comparison showing stable milling and vibration marks on an aluminum machined wall
CNC Chatter: Causes, Chatter Marks & How to Reduce Vibration

CNC chatter is an unstable vibration that occurs between the cutting tool and workpiece during machining....

white anodized aluminum
Can Aluminum Actually Be Anodized White?

If you need a white aluminum part, anodizing may seem like an obvious choice. After all,...

What Is Plaster Mold Casting
What Is Plaster Mold Casting? Process, Materials, Advantages & Uses

Plaster mold casting is a metal casting process that uses a gypsum-based mold instead of sand....

Copper vs bronze properties
Is Bronze More Expensive Than Copper? Price & Cost Comparison

Bronze is not always more expensive than copper. Pure copper can cost more than some common...

Delrin vs Nylon applications
Delrin vs Nylon: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

Delrin and nylon are both strong engineering plastics, but they are better suited to different jobs....

Top 10 strongest metals in the world
Top 10 Strongest Metals in the World

When people ask which metal is the strongest, it’s not always easy to give a single...

Brass melting point and brass alloy temperature
Brass Melting Point: Temperature, Grades & Comparison

Brass typically melts within a range of about 900–940°C (1650–1725°F), but there is no single exact...

PVC vs Acrylic Material Comparison
PVC vs Acrylic: Differences, Properties, and Applications

When it comes to comparing PVC and acrylic, the real differences come down to transparency, chemical...

14 gauge steel thickness measurement showing steel sheet and precision measurement tools
14 Gauge Steel Thickness: Complete Guide

14 gauge steel has a thickness of about 0.0747 inches or 1.897 millimeters.It is widely used...

tungsten metal properties and CNC machining components
Tungsten Metal: Properties, Applications, and CNC Machining Challenges

When engineers require a material that can endure extreme heat, heavy pressures, and tough operating environments,...

1810 304 and 316 stainless steel material comparison
18/10 vs 304 vs 316 Stainless Steel: What Is the Difference?

Stainless steel is a commonly used material in various industries such as CNC machining, medical devices,...

420 vs 316 stainless steel material comparison for CNC machining
420 Stainless Steel vs 316 Stainless Steel: Differences and How to Choose

When choosing stainless steel for CNC machined components, engineers typically evaluate various grades to find the...

Nickel metal samples and CNC machined nickel alloy parts showing magnetic properties
Is Nickel Magnetic? Nickel Magnetism Explained

Nickel is one of the few naturally occurring metals that have magnetic properties.When it is in...

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...

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