What is CNC Milling?
CNC Milling Services
3 Axis CNC Milling
Quick Quote3-axis milling operates along X, Y, and Z linear paths, delivering cost-effective precision (±0.05 mm) for prismatic parts with planar features like pockets, slots, and drilled holes. Ideal for aluminum, brass, and engineering plastics (e.g., PEEK, acetal), it handles components up to 2,000 × 1,000 × 600 mm with optimized cycle times for prototypes and mid-volume runs. While limited to single-face machining, it excels at flatness-critical applications: baseplates, enclosures, and mounting brackets requiring ±0.1 mm positional accuracy.
4-Axis CNC Milling
Quick Quote4-axis milling integrates a rotary axis (A-axis) for indexed multi-face machining without refixturing, achieving ±0.05° angular accuracy on cylindrical or box-shaped parts. This enables complex features: radial holes, helical grooves, and contoured profiles around a workpiece—ideal for gear housings, valve bodies, and motor mounts in 316 stainless steel or 6061-T6 aluminum. With 60% faster production than 3-axis for rotational geometries, it maintains ±0.075 mm tolerances while eliminating cumulative setup errors common in marketplace supplier networks.
5-Axis CNC Milling
Quick Quote5-axis simultaneous milling dynamically manipulates tools along five axes (X,Y,Z + B/C), enabling single-setup machining of organic contours, undercuts, and compound angles at ±0.015 mm tolerances. High-speed spindles (24,000 RPM) sculpt aerospace titanium impellers, medical PEEK implants, and injection mold cores with <0.8 μm surface finishes. Unlike competitors limited to 3+2 positioning, true 5-axis interpolation maintains optimal tool engagement for 70% faster material removal in hardened tool steels (HRC 50+) while achieving ±0.020 mm true position accuracy on aerospace bulkheads.
CNC Milling Tolerances
This reference defines achievable precision for 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling processes across linear dimensions, geometric profiles, and surface finishes. Standard and tight tolerance ranges account for material behavior, part geometry, and inspection methodologies to prevent manufacturing delays and non-conformance. Align designs with these process-specific benchmarks to balance functional requirements with cost efficiency across aerospace, medical, and industrial applications.
| Feature | 3-Axis Milling | 4-Axis Milling | 5-Axis Milling | Critical Influencers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linear Dimensions | ±0.125 mm (±0.005") |
±0.100 mm (±0.004") |
±0.075 mm (±0.003") |
Part size, fixturing stability |
| Hole Position (Ø<25mm) | ±0.100 mm | ±0.050 mm | ±0.025 mm | Probe calibration, machine rigidity |
| Bore Diameter (H7) | ±0.50 mm | ±0.50 mm | ±0.50 mm | Tool deflection, cooling strategy |
| Flatness (100×100mm) | 0.100 mm | 0.050 mm | 0.025 mm | Workholding, residual stresses |
| Angularity (Per 100mm) | ±0.5° | ±0.1° | ±0.05° | Rotary axis precision |
| Surface Finish (Ra) | 0.4 μm (16 μin) |
0.4 μm (16 μin) |
0.4 μm (16 μin) |
Toolpath strategy, tool condition |
| True Position | 0.200 mm | 0.100 mm | 0.050 mm | Datum alignment, setup accuracy |
Tight/Achievable Tolerances
| Feature | 3-Axis | 4-Axis | 5-Axis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linear Dimensions | ±0.050 mm | ±0.025 mm | ±0.010 mm |
| Hole Position (Ø<25mm) | ±0.050 mm | ±0.020 mm | ±0.010 mm |
| Bore Diameter (H7) | ±0.050 | ±0.050 | ±0.050 |
| Flatness (100×100mm) | 0.050 mm | 0.020 mm | 0.010 mm |
| Angularity (Per 100mm) | ±0.2° | ±0.05° | ±0.05° |
CNC Milling Materials
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AluminumLightweight, corrosion-resistant, exhibits high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. Learn more Available Materials
Finishing Options |
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CopperHighly conductive, malleable metal with excellent thermal and electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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BrassCorrosion-resistant alloy of copper and zinc, known for its machinability, strength, and acoustic properties. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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BronzeDurable, corrosion-resistant alloy primarily composed of copper and tin, known for its strength and wear resistance. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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Tool SteelHigh hardness, resistance to abrasion, and ability to maintain a sharp edge, ideal for cutting and shaping tools. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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Stainless SteelCorrosion-resistant alloy with excellent strength and durability, primarily composed of iron, chromium, and nickel. Learn more Available Materials
Finishing Options |
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Alloy SteelEnhanced strength, toughness, resistance to wear and corrosion through the addition of elements like chromium, nickel, and molybdenum. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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Mild SteelMild steel, also known as low-carbon steel. Mild steel is primarily characterized by having a carbon content of less than 0.2% by weight. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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TitaniumLightweight, strong, corrosion-resistant metal known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and biocompatibility. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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ABSTough, impact-resistant plastic with good machinability, known for strength and durability. Learn more Finishing Options |
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AcrylicLightweight, shatter-resistant plastic with excellent optical clarity and weather resistance—a durable alternative to glass. Learn more Finishing Options |
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DelrinHigh-strength, low-friction plastic with excellent dimensional stability and resistance to wear and chemicals. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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HDPEVersatile, high-density plastic with strength, chemical resistance, and low moisture absorption. Learn more Finishing Options |
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NylonStrong, flexible, abrasion-resistant polymer with excellent wear resistance and low friction. Learn more Available MaterialsFinishing Options |
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PolycarbonateTough, heat- and impact-resistant plastic with high clarity and good dimensional stability. Learn more Finishing Options |
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As Machined StandardSurface finish directly as a result of machining, without any post processing. Learn more Finish Specifications
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As Machined MediumSurface finish is smoother than our standard finish, but no post processing is done. Learn more Finish Specifications
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As Machined FineThis is accomplished by using fine machining with high quality cutting tools. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Bead BlastingParts are glass bead blasted which will result in a textured satin-like finish. Learn more Finish Specifications
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BrushedParts are manually brushed with sand paper to improve surface roughness. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Chromate Conversion CoatingChromate Conversion Coating will be applied to parts with As Machined finish. Learn more Finish Specifications
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PolishingParts are manually polished resulting in a smooth surface roughness. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Powder CoatingEconomical, durable and long-lasting finish with many color options. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Black OxideBlack Oxide coating is applied on As Machined parts to improve wear resistance. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Electroless PlatingElectroless plating is applied to As Machined finish parts. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Anodizing Type 2Anodizing Type 2 is applied on As Machined parts to improve wear resistance. Learn more Finish Specifications
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Anodizing Type 3 (Hard)Anodizing Type 3 is applied on As Machined parts to form a highly durable coating. Learn more Finish Specifications
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CNC Milling Design Guidelines
Follow these critical parameters to ensure manufacturability across 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis milling operations. This table defines essential thresholds for wall thickness, feature complexity, and geometric constraints – preventing costly redesigns, tooling failures, and tolerance violations. By aligning designs with process-specific capabilities, you optimize part functionality while controlling production costs and lead times.
| Feature | 3-Axis Milling | 4-Axis Milling | 5-Axis Milling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Thickness | 1.0 mm (metals) 1.5 mm (plastics) |
1.0 mm (metals) 1.2 mm (plastics) |
0.8 mm (metals) 1.0 mm (plastics) |
| Hole Depth | ≤4× diameter | ≤5× diameter | ≤6× diameter |
| Internal Corners | R0.5 mm+ | R0.4 mm+ | R0.3 mm+ |
| Undercuts | Not possible | Limited (axis-parallel) | Full capability (any angle) |
| Tolerances | ±0.125 mm (std) ±0.050 mm (tight) |
±0.100 mm (std) ±0.025 mm (tight) |
±0.050 mm (std) ±0.020 mm (tight) |
| Text Engraving | Top faces only | 3+ faces with indexing | Any surface |
| Max Cavity Depth | ≤3× width | ≤4× width | ≤5× width |
| Surface Finish (Ra) | 3.2 μm (std) 0.8 μm (opt) |
2.5 μm (std) 0.6 μm (opt) |
1.6 μm (std) 0.4 μm (opt) |
| Critical Tips | Avoid side features Chamfer all edges |
Align features with rotation axis Allow tool clearance |
Minimize tool length Leverage compound angles |
Quality & Certifications Module
Certified Precision, Validated In-House: Your Guarantee of Zero-Defect Parts
Every component is sourced from our vetted ISO/AS9100-certified manufacturing partners, then 100% physically inspected at our facility before shipment. Unlike others, we enforce a 3-stage custody protocol:
| Material Compliance: | We order and validate material certifications (RoHS, REACH, FDA, mill test reports) on your behalf. |
| In-House Verification: |
Dimensional accuracy checks via CMM, VMM, 2D height gauges (±0.01 mm), and precision tools. Critical feature validation against your drawings (hole positions, thread fits, flatness). Visual inspection for surface defects, burrs, and cosmetic flaws. |
| Final Certification: | Full documentation including material certs, CoCs, and inspection logs. |
| We guarantee: | ±0.020 mm tolerances on all shipped parts (validated in-house). Zero paperwork gaps – we manage all supplier certifications. 100% physical custody – no direct supplier shipments delivering zero-defect compliance from prototype to 100,000+ part production runs. |
Why Choose Us for Precision CNC Milling Services?
Our integrated ecosystem can deliver complex 3-axis, 4-axis or 5-axis machined parts delivered fast and accurately. We combine enterprise-grade capabilities—from high-speed aluminum milling to titanium aerospace components. Leverage our network of 200+ ISO 9001/AS9100-certified manufacturers to seamlessly scale from 1 prototype to 50,000+ production parts, all held to tolerances as tight as ±0.020mm and backed by full material certifications. We ensure consistency through rigorous quality controls: every part undergoes in-house inspection, and comes with a downloadable Certificate of Conformity.
Manage everything effortlessly through our intuitive dashboard: track orders in real time, approve revisions instantly, download inspection reports, and coordinate shipments—all in one place. No more chasing emails or navigating clunky portals. We guarantee on-time delivery (99.6% success rate) and zero cost surprises, with a 100% quality promise: if we miss a spec, we’ll remake your parts at our cost and expedite shipping. Upload your CAD file for quick quote backed by our risk-free commitment.
The Platform Advantage - Unified Oversight for Precision Manufacturing
Our integrated dashboard delivers end-to-end project command—streamlining workflows while ensuring transparency at every stage. Experience seamless coordination from initial request to final delivery, all within a single secure interface.
Submit & Configure with Precision
| RFQ Initiation |
Upload CAD files (STEP, IGES, SLDPRT) and drawings Specify requirements: materials, tolerances, finishes, inspection protocols Request custom documentation: material certs, CMM reports, customs forms |
| Real-Time Quoting |
Receive instant DFM analysis with cost drivers flagged Adjust configurations (e.g., material substitutions) to optimize pricing |
Order Execution & Oversight
| Document Management |
Submit customs declarations, commercial invoices, and HS codes Upload purchase orders or approve terms for payment Access digital invoices with tax/line-item breakdowns |
| Production Intelligence |
Track progress and updates View Shop floor photos/videos Access Inspection reports, quality documents and Material certifications Monitor shipping status with carrier integrations |
Proactive Collaboration & Support
| Engineer Engagement |
Send technical queries and status enquiries to our engineers via encrypted chat Receive resolution timelines for technical queries |
| Quality Assurance Hub |
Access pre-shipment documentation: First-article inspection reports, dimensional reports and quality documents Approve/reject deliverables via annotated media |
| Post-Delivery Excellence |
Initiate reorders with one-click cloning Log support tickets for non-conformances Archive project history (drawings, certs, comms) for audits |
Industries specialized
Aerospace
Automotive
Consumer Products
Medical
Frequently Asked Questions
We guarantee standard tolerances per AS9001,ISO 2768 and ±0.010 mm tight tolerances on 5-axis machines for flight-critical or implant components – validated by in-house CMMs. All parts come with full material traceability and industry standard inspection reports.
| Process | Best For | Lead Time | Cost Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Axis | Prismatic parts | 1-5 days | Baseline |
| 4-Axis | Cylindrical features | +1 day | +15-25% |
| 5-Axis | Organic contours | +2 days | +30-50% |
Design: Avoid ±0.025 mm tolerances on non-critical features (35% savings)
Material: Use 6061 vs. 7075 aluminum (30% savings)
Process: Nest multiple parts in 3-axis (>40% material utilization)
Message your project engineer via dashboard for real-time adjustments.
Changes pre-machining are free;
post-machining
incur costs only with signed approval.
3-axis is ideal for prismatic parts with features on one face (e.g., plates, brackets). It's the most
cost-effective for simpler geometries.
4-axis adds a rotary axis, allowing machining on multiple sides of a part in a single setup (e.g., camshafts,
custom gears), reducing fixturing time and errors.
5-axis simultaneous machining allows the tool to move dynamically along five axes at once. It's essential for
complex, organic contours like turbine blades, impellers, and aerospace components with tight tolerances (±0.025
mm), as it eliminates multiple setups and drastically improves accuracy.
We machine a vast range of materials. For:
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Aluminum 7075-T6 or Titanium Grade 5 are aerospace standards.
High-Temperature Resistance: Inconel 718 (superalloy), PEEK (engineered plastic), or Titanium.
Wear Resistance: Tool Steels (e.g., A2, D2) or Stainless 304/316.
General Purpose: Aluminum 6061-T6 or Acetal (POM). We provide full material certifications and will advise on
the best choice during the DFM process.
Our standard milling tolerance is ±0.125 mm.
We can reliably hold ±0.025 mm for critical features on most parts.
For 5-axis machining of stable materials, we can achieve ±0.020 mm .
All tight tolerances are verified with in-house CMM inspection, a service we include at no extra cost, unlike
many marketplace competitors.
Quality is engineered into our process, not inspected in later. We perform 100% in-house validation at our
facility. This includes:
First-Article Inspection: CMM verification against your GD&T.
In-Process Checks: Live toolpath monitoring and probing.
Surface Finish Validation: Measured with profilometers.
This hands-on approach prevents the quality lottery of broker platforms that rely on supplier self-reporting.
It can be, but it's a challenge we specialize in solving.
Our high-speed machining (HSM) capabilities and trochoidal milling strategies are designed for efficient
material removal in deep pockets while minimizing stress and heat.
For thin walls, we optimize toolpaths, tools, and feeds/speeds to prevent chatter and deflection.
We will provide specific DFM feedback on minimum recommended wall thicknesses during quoting.
Yes. Our network includes large-format gantry mills capable of handling parts up to 2,000 x 1,000 x 600 mm (78"
x 39" x 24").
For larger components, we can coordinate a segmented machining strategy and provide assembly services.
Absolutely. We offer a complete range of post-processing to meet aesthetic and functional requirements:
Anodizing (Type II & III / Hardcoat)
Powder Coating
Bead Blasting & Media Finishing
Passivation (for stainless steel)
Precision Polishing to mirror finishes (Ra < 0.4 μm)
For the most accurate quote and DFM analysis, please upload a 3D CAD file (STEP, IGES, SLDPRT, X_T preferred)
along with a 2D PDF drawing with critical dimensions, tolerances, and GD&T callouts.
This allows our engineers to fully understand your design intent.
Our connected manufacturing network allows for highly competitive lead times:
Prototypes: 1–3 days for standard materials.
Production Runs: 5–10 business days.
We consistently outperform marketplace brokers because we control the quality process internally, eliminating
the delays that come from coordinating and validating multiple external shops.