CNC

Where it comes up

• Production machining, turning, and sawingCNC milling, turning, and production sawing from bar, plate, castings, and forgings, from prototype to production.

Related terms

Swiss turning

Swiss turning is a lathe process where bar stock feeds through a guide bushing so the cut always happens right next to support. That lets it turn long, slender parts to tolerances of ±0.0002–0.0005 in (±0.005–0.013 mm). It suits small precision parts up to about 1.25 in (32 mm) diameter.

Setup

Setup is the work needed to prepare a machine to run a specific part: loading tooling, fixtures, and programs, then running and inspecting first pieces. Setup cost is fixed per run, so it is spread over the lot size and is a main driver of MOQ.

Cycle time

Cycle time is the time needed to complete one full production cycle, such as one mold shot, one press stroke, or one machined part. It sets machine hours per part, so it is a primary input to piece price. In injection molding, cooling usually takes most of the cycle.

Fixture

A fixture is a custom workholding device that locates and clamps a part in a repeatable position for machining, welding, assembly, or inspection. Good fixtures locate from the drawing's datums. Fixture cost is usually a one-time charge on the quote, separate from piece price.