Machining is a general term for a wide range of subtractive manufacturing processes, where material is removed from a larger workpiece. Some examples of machining include milling, turning, grinding, and drilling. Machined components are used extensively in the automotive, electronic, medical, and other industries.
Learn more about the types of machining, their benefits and applications, and the capabilities we offer at The Rayflex Company.
Machining Explained
Machining is an efficient, cost-effective way to create precise, repeatable parts by removing material from a stock workpiece. Machining tools, including milling machines, drill presses, and lathes, can be operated manually or automated by a computer program.
Parts of all shapes and sizes can be precisely created using these common machining techniques:
- Boring: Boring enlarges and finishes existing holes.
- Cutting: Saws can cut sheet metal and other materials with stock dimensions into specific shapes and sizes.
- Drilling: Using a rotating cutter, drilling creates new holes parallel to the axis of rotation.
- Grinding: Grinding finishes the part or makes minor cuts.
- Milling: Milling is a process where rotating cutting tools cut specific shapes and contours into a stationary workpiece.
- Turning: Turning rotates a workpiece around stationary cutting tools to shape the part into the desired form.
Machined parts are often made of metal, though rubber, plastic, , wood, and many other materials can be machined, as well. The chosen material depends upon the desired strength, durability, and appearance of the final product, among other considerations.
Machining Benefits
Companies around the world use machining to create components both large and small due to the many benefits it offers:
- High Precision: Parts can be machined with extremely tight tolerances, with precise replication over large production runs.
- Customization: By working closely with the manufacturer, companies can customize their machined parts to fit their unique needs regarding dimensions, finishes, and more.
Machining Applications
Companies in a wide range of industries rely on machining for prototyping and small to large production runs of components for critical applications.
Our Capabilities
At The Rayflex Company, we provide custom machining for specialized and highly regulated applications. Our machining capabilities include:
- Milling
- OD grinding
- Turning
- Honing
- Sawing
- Drilling
- Tapping
In addition to our core machining capabilities, other services we offer include:
- Plating
- Welding
- Sheet Metal
- Centerless Grinding
Machining Services From The Rayflex Company
The Rayflex Company is a family-owned and operated company specializing in custom contract manufacturing services. Since 1937, we’ve worked with clients to create components for a wide range of applications, including office equipment, energy generation,packaging machinery, conveyors , industrial controls, maritime, military, retail display hardware, transportation, and all types of industrial machinery. Contact us today to learn more about our machining services, or request a quote for your project.
Machining is a general term for a wide range of subtractive manufacturing processes, where material is removed from a larger workpiece. Some examples of machining include milling, turning, grinding, and drilling. Machined components are used extensively in the automotive, electronic, medical, and other industries.
Learn more about the types of machining, their benefits and applications, and the capabilities we offer at The Rayflex Company.