Machining

Machining, also known as subtractive manufacturing, is a process by which raw metal is cut into a shape by specifically removing pieces of material. Across the machining industry, there are several processes by which a manufacturer can shape metal, including:

Turning: the metal material is rotated against a cutting tool continuously to be shaped into the desired configuration

Boring: this machining process enlarges a drilled hole by using a cutting tool with a boring head to scrape away at the inside of the hole

Drilling: in this metal shaping process, a machinist shapes a hole through the center of the metal by rotating a cutting tool through the material

Milling: in this process, the cutting tool is rotated in a precise direction through the metal to achieve a specific angle

Multi-Axis Machining: this refers to either a 3-Axis, 4-Axis, 5-Axis or 6-Axis machining process through which a computer controlled cutting tool removes excess metal, forming it into an intricate shape

Broaching: in this machining process, the cutting tool known as a broach has a serrated edge or “teeth” that cut through and remove excess material

Shaping: this machining process creates a linear shape by working the cutting tool through a single point of contact with the metal

Planing: similar to shaping, this cutting tool works on a larger scale to slice away the metal piece by piece and maintain a straight edge

Reaming: in the machining industry, a hole often carved by drilling is smoothed out through this process

Tapping: this type of machining shapes metal into screws with detailed threading components

Burnishing: this important process in machining smooths the edge of a rough surface

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM): also known as die sinking, this machining process administers sparks onto the metal piece to manufacture it into a shape

Electro-Chemical Machining: hard metals are shaped in this machining process by passing a high current through the metal to remove some of its material

Laser Cutting: metal is cut and shaped in this process through a laser tool

Water Jet Cutting: this machining process works much like laser cutting in terms of power, but instead uses a high beam of water pressure to shape the metal

Machining is an important component in shaping, cutting holes, and smoothing the finishes of many metals for precision parts and materials. Many businesses and residences rely on the materials made in the machining industry through these processes each and every day.

Does your business require the use of any of these important machining processes? If so, ensure that you have the right manufacturer for the job by getting the most qualified candidates from across the nation with the help of Laminin Corp’s Machining Industry Recruiting Specialists.