CNC Machining - Uptive

Solutions / CNC Machining

How CNC Machining Works

CNC machining is a precise, subtractive process that begins with programming a combination of CNC tools to build a part directly from a CAD file. The machines etch out the design from a solid block of metal or other material to reveal the part shape. For larger or more complex parts,we’ll create the part in sections, then bond the sections back together to form a highly accurate part with a higher quality surface that’s ready for plating, painting or polishing.

Here’s how our CNC machining solutions can help you:

Accelerate precision and timelines for tooling, progressive dies, and assembly fixtures in higher quantities.
Produce more complex parts with a variety of materials: aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Invar, Kovar, brass, plastics, etc.
Take designs to production faster, including prototypes with complex geometries via CNC prototyping.
Create metal and non-metal surfaces with better acceptance of coatings and a variety of paint finishes.

Our CNC Machining Capabilities

Our CNC machining solutions offer more speed and material versatility to take your design from prototyping to production. Our team will work with you to ensure support on low, medium and large-volume production with quick turnaround times for prototypes, short runs and pre-production trials. Our materials and systems improve joining characteristics, increase uniformity of hardness/grain structure, and improve surface quality for more available finishing options.

CNC Milling

We combine 3, 4, or 5-axis milling and other processes to cost-effectively produce manufacturing jigs, fixtures and functioning prototypes in just days, for both higher quantities and production components in lower volumes.

CNC Turning

We use 2-to-8 Axis and Swiss Turning to create complex features such as slots, grooves, flats, and axial/radial holes. Our turning solutions deliver precision for small, complex parts, as well as for larger diameter turnings.

CNC Prototyping

From Teflon® to Titanium, our CNC prototyping utilizes a wide range of metals, polymers and composite materials to produce large, highly-complex prototypes directly from your CAD files.

CNC Machining Materials Comparison

Material	Description	Ideal for	Finishes	Spec Sheet
ABS – v0 FLAME-RATED \|\| Black	ABS material that is formulated to meet flame retardant standards for applications where fire safety is a concern	Electrical enclosures and automotive components	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
ABS \|\| Natural (Off-White) or Black	Versatile and affordable material that is known for its good impact resistance and toughness	Enclosures, housings, and consumer goods	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
ACRYLIC \|\| Clear	Transparent material that is known for its optical clarity, UV resistance, and scratch resistance	Lighting fixtures, displays, and lenses	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
Aluminum AL6061-T6	Lightweight and strong material that is known for its good corrosion resistance and excellent machinability	Aerospace components, automotive parts, and consumer goods	Electroplating, anodizing, or powder coating, for improved corrosion resistance, durability, and appearance. Additionally, these materials can be polished, textured, or sandblasted to achieve desired surface finish	Spec Sheet
Copper Alloy	Non-ferrous material that is known for its high electrical and thermal conductivity, making it suitable for electrical and heat transfer applications	Electrical connectors, heat sinks, and plumbing fittings	Electroplating, anodizing, or powder coating, for improved corrosion resistance, durability, and appearance. Additionally, these materials can be polished, textured, or sandblasted to achieve desired surface finish	Spec Sheet
NAK 80	High-performance steel material that is known for its excellent dimensional stability and resistance to wear and corrosion	High-precision molds, injection molding tools, and industrial components	Electroplating, anodizing, or powder coating, for improved corrosion resistance, durability, and appearance. Additionally, these materials can be polished, textured, or sandblasted to achieve desired surface finish	Spec Sheet
NYLON \|\| Natural (Off-White) or Black	Versatile material that is known for its high strength, toughness, and durability	Gears, bearings, and structural components in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
PC+ABS \|\| Black	Blend of PC and ABS materials that combines the toughness of ABS with the heat resistance of PC	Automotive components, electronic housings, and appliances	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
POLYCARBONATE \|\| Black or Clear	Tough and transparent material that is known for its excellent impact resistance and heat resistance	Safety goggles, electronic components, and automotive lighting	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
POLYPROPYLENE \|\| Black	Lightweight and affordable material that is known for its good chemical resistance and low friction	Living hinges, containers, and medical devices	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet
SKD11 Steel	High-carbon and high-chromium steel material that is known for its high hardness, wear resistance, and toughness	Stamping dies, cutting tools, and machine components	Electroplating, anodizing, or powder coating, for improved corrosion resistance, durability, and appearance. Additionally, these materials can be polished, textured, or sandblasted to achieve desired surface finish	Spec Sheet
ULTEM \|\| Translucent Amber or Black	High-performance material that is known for its excellent heat resistance, strength, and stiffness	Electrical insulators, aerospace components, and medical equipment	Polishing, texturing, or painting, for a smooth and attractive appearance	Spec Sheet

This a sampling of CNC machining materials we work with. See more information on available materials and specs here.

3D vs CNC Webinar Recording - Cover Image - Uptive

3D vs CNC Machining: Which One & When - Webinar

Watch a recording of our recent webinar titled “3D Printing vs CNC: Which One, and When?” where we explore advantages and considerations for these two manufacturing technologies, in order to help you make an informed decision for your business.

Watch Now

Why Customers Choose UPTIVE

"I just received the MJF caps and they look great! These are the best MJF parts I’ve seen to date – all your practice and hard work is catching up."
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