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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 cutting tools selection guide for precision machined parts
CNC Cutting Tools: Types, Materials, Coatings, and Selection Guide

CNC cutting tools are the tools that physically remove material during milling, turning, drilling, boring, threading,...

What is a bottoming tap
What Is a Bottoming Tap? A Guide to Blind Hole Threading

A bottoming tap is a thread-cutting tool with a very short chamfer, typically about 1–2 threads....

Types of CNC machines
Types of CNC Machines: 9 Common Types and How to Choose

The main types of CNC machines include CNC mills, lathes, Swiss machines, mill-turn centers, gantry machines,...

Counterbore vs countersink
Counterbore vs Countersink: Differences, Uses & How to Choose

A counterbore and a countersink are both recessed hole features used to seat fastener heads, but...

NPT thread size chart with dimensions TPI and tap drill sizes
NPT Thread Size Chart: Dimensions, TPI & Tap Drill Sizes

NPT (National Pipe Taper) is a 60° tapered pipe thread commonly used for fluid, pneumatic, and...

Honing process
Honing Process: How It Works, Types, Tolerances & Applications

Honing is a precision abrasive machining process mainly used to finish internal bores. A honing tool...

6 Essential Wood Lathe Turning Tools
6 Essential Wood Lathe Turning Tools and What They Are Used For

The six essential wood lathe turning tools are a spindle roughing gouge, spindle gouge, bowl gouge,...

38-16 tap drill size guide showing drill bit and threaded hole
3/8-16 Tap Drill Size: Complete CNC Machining Guide

When making a threaded hole, it is important to select the right drill size to ensure...

CNC machining engineering drawing guide
Engineering Drawing Symbols and Abbreviations: Complete Guide for CNC Machining

When you send a CNC machining project to a manufacturer, one of the first things engineers...

CNC machining software workflow showing CAD CAM programming, toolpath simulation, and CNC manufacturing process
How CNC Machining Software Improves Production Efficiency

CNC machining software improves production efficiency by helping engineers create better toolpaths, reduce programming time, prevent...

Examples of CNC machined parts made with a CNC machine including metal brackets, housings, shafts, and industrial components
What Can You Make With a CNC Machine? CNC Products & Applications

A single CNC machine is capable of producing thousands of different items, ranging from simple brackets...

CNC milling machine engraving a precision aluminum part
Can a CNC Machine Engrave Metal?

Yes. CNC machine tools can not only machine metal parts, but also engrave text, numbers, logos,...

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...

grizzly g8689
Grizzly G8689 Ultimate Guide: Master Your Drill Mill for Precision Workshop Projects

Explore the complete guide to Grizzly G8689 drill mill. Learn about key features, industry applications and...

5 axis cnc
5 Axis CNC Explained: Your Complete Guide to Multi-Side Precision Machining

Master 5 axis cnc machining with our complete guide. Explore best practices, technical specs, and solutions...

5 axis mills
5 Axis Mills Explained: Your Desktop Guide to Professional Multi-Sided Machining

Master 5 axis mills with our complete guide to desktop CNC milling. Unlock best practices, key...

what is cnc
What is CNC? The Friend’s Guide to the Brains Behind Modern Manufacturing

Explore the ultimate guide to CNC systems. Learn what CNC (Computer Numerical Control) is, its core...

cnc ma
CNC Machine Buying Guide: What You Need to Know Before Making a Purchase

Explore the ultimate guide to purchasing CNC machines. Learn about key specifications, industry applications, and best...

cnc kopen
The Ultimate Guide to CNC Kopen: Key Features and Considerations

Thinking about buying a CNC machine? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will help...

cnc router
Complete Guide to CNC Router Machines: A Beginner’s Handbook

Unlock the full potential of CNC router technology. Our complete guide covers best practices, key features,...

commercial cnc
How to Choose the Right Commercial CNC Machine for Your Business

Looking to enhance your manufacturing process with a reliable CNC router supplier? Our complete guide walks...

x carve cnc
How to Choose the Best X Carve CNC for Your Workshop

Master your projects with our Complete Guide to X Carve CNC. Discover best practices, key features,...

x carve cnc machine
The Complete Guide to X Carve CNC Machine for Beginners

Learn everything you need to know about X Carve CNC routers. Explore their performance, features, and...

cnc machine business
How to Start Your Own CNC Machine Business: A Complete Guide

Discover the essentials of running a CNC machine side hustle. Learn best practices, technical specifications, and...

lathes made in usa
Why Choose Lathes Made in the USA? Benefits for Your Workshop

Learn everything you need to know about American-made metal lathes. Discover key features, best practices, and...

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