Introduction to Machining

Thu, 10 Apr 2008

Machining is the process of removing materials from stock material by use of machine tools, to produce usable parts.

High speed automated machines have made machining much more efficient.

eMachineShop gives you access to a wide selection of machining processes and materials including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, polycarbonate, plastic, fiberglass and acrylic among others.

Some of the machining methods used to make parts include: milling, turning, boring, grinding, honing, knurling, reaming, etc. The method chosen will depend on dimensional accuracy, surface finish, size, material and other factors.

Machining is distinguished from casting or molding where a metal or plastic is melted and then cast into a mold. Molds are relatively expensive to make. In many cases machining and casting is combined. For example the raw 'block' of an engine may be cast and then machined to produce precision surfaces and bores.

Machining is used in transportation, construction, packaging, electrical, automotive, aviation, medical and many other areas.

eMachineShop is the online machine shop that allows customers to design, analyze, price and order custom parts using machining and other processes. Because eMachineShop's free design software has built-in 'expert systems', the risk of designing parts that cannot be manufactured practiically, making it possible for both engineers and non-engineers to design and product projects and products.