CNC Milling Processes

Flashcards covering definitions and operations of various CNC milling processes.

What is face milling?

Removes material from the surface of a workpiece to create a flat, smooth face.

What is the function of end milling?

Uses an end mill to cut into the workpiece and produce features such as pockets, steps and profiles.

How does plain/slab milling remove material to produce a flat surface?

Removes material using the outer circumference of a cutter to produce a flat surface.

What action does slot milling perform on a workpiece?

Cuts a narrow groove or channel into the workpiece.

What process removes material from an enclosed area to create a recessed pocket?

Pocket milling

How is contour milling defined?

Cuts along a programmed path to produce the external or internal outline of a component.

What is profile milling?

Machines a specific two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape around the workpiece.

What process produces cylindrical holes by feeding a rotating drill into the material?

Drilling

What is the purpose of boring?

Enlarges or improves the accuracy of an existing hole using a boring tool.

What process finishes an existing hole to produce a more accurate size and smoother internal surface?

Reaming

What is tapping?

Creates internal threads inside a drilled hole so that a screw or bolt can be fitted.

How does thread milling create threads?

Creates internal or external threads using a rotating thread-milling cutter.

What is chamfering?

Removes a sharp edge to create a small angled surface.

What process creates a conical recess at the entrance of a hole so that a countersunk screw can sit flush with the surface?

Countersinking

What is counterboring?

Creates a larger cylindrical recess around an existing hole so that a bolt or screw head can sit below or level with the surface.

What is the role of roughing in CNC milling?

Removes a large amount of material quickly while leaving some material for later finishing.

What is the role of finishing in CNC milling?

Removes a small amount of remaining material to achieve the final dimensions and surface finish.

What process uses programmed toolpaths to produce curved, sculpted or complex three-dimensional surfaces?

3D milling

What is keyway milling?

Cuts a slot called a keyway into a shaft or other component for fitting a key.

What is engraving in CNC milling?

Removes a small amount of material to create letters, numbers, symbols or patterns on a surface.