The chart below summarizes various CNC machining processes that eMachineShop uses to manufacture parts.
| Machine | Method | D | Materials |
| Laser Cutting | Laser beam vaporizes cut path | 2D | Most |
| Milling | Rotating cutter moves in 3D | 3D | Hard |
| Compression Molding (for rubber) | Heated rubber pressed into mold | 3D | Rubber |
| Injection Molding | Molten plastic forced into mold | 3D | Plastic |
| 3D Printing | Fused plastic deposits in 3D space | 3D | ABS |
| Spur gears cutting | Cutting of plain 2D gears | 2D | Metal |
| Turret Punching | Successive punching of fixed shapes | 2D | Sheet metal |
| Turning (lathe) | Cutter applied to rotating material (concentric shapes) | 3D | Hard |
| Waterjet cutting | High pressure water cuts sheet | 2D | Hard |
| Wire EDM | Charged wire erodes material | 2D | Metal |
| Machine | Method | D | Materials |
| Bending | Bends sheet metal to an angle | 3D | Metal |
| Counter boring * | Rotating tool enlarges upper portion of hole | NA | Hard |
| Countersinking * | Conical tool adds conical shape to top of hole | NA | Hard |
| Drilling | Rotating cutter moves in one dimension | 1D | Hard |
| Finishing | Various methods of treating surface of work piece | NA | Metal |
| Grinding, Surface | Abrasive wheel creates uniform flat surface | 2D | Metal |
| Knurling * | Textured tool presses coarse textured pattern (cylindrical shapes) | NA | Metal |
| Reaming * | Precision cutting tool creates accurate hole | 1D | Metal |
| Band sawing * | Cutting blade cuts material in straight line | NA | Hard |
| Shearing * | Scissors-like action cuts material in straight line | NA | Most |
| Threading & Tapping | Threads holes and protrusions | 3D | Hard |
| Machine | Method | D | Materials |
Note: Molding processes require tooling which is generally beneficial for longer runs.
D = 2D or 3D shapes
* Specified using the Comments To Machinist features of the eMachineShop CAD.
Also see common fabrication methods.
The above processes are compatible in various combinations with: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Copper, Sheet Metal, Nylon, Steel, Acetal, Polycarbonate, Polystyrene,Acrylic, Plastic, Fiberglass, Brass, Carbon fiber, PTFE, Titanium, ABS, PVC, Sterling Silver, Spring Steel, Bronze and Rubber.
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