Steel is an extremely popular material across industries due to its incredible machinability and weldability for some grades. individuals and enterprises can enjoy these properties provided they pick the relevant steel grade. Steel is one of those materials that also gives users a great combination of cost-effectiveness and functionality.
Steel has other properties that greatly enhance its versatility and appeal to a broad range of businesses needing precision-machined steel components. At ProleanTech, we know the intricacies of steel CNC machining seen in the quality of steel CNC machined parts we produce.
The material is available in different forms, meaning that CNC machining can be challenging in different ways. The answer to the machining requirements is to consider all the material-related requirements carefully.
That calls for the use of the right types of machining techniques and tools. The machinist has to be skilled to determine which approach to use for any steel metal variety.
This article unpacks the secret to effective CNC machining at Prolean Tech and how your business or operations can benefit.
Basics of Steel CNC Machining and Relevance to Your Business
Steel CNC machining is the process of changing the shape of steel using a computer-controlled steel CNC milling machine or any other CNC machine. The machinist prepares designs and feeds them into the CNC machine, which interprets them to produce the parts.
Steel CNC machining solves parts needs for your need for precise parts for automotive, aircraft, architectural, or power generation applications. You most likely want the resulting parts to be durable to suit the tough conditions for fasteners, shafts, tie rod, gears, and such parts.
Regardless of your industry, the best steel CNC machining service delivers relevant products in terms of durabilty, corrosion resistance, strength, precision, and other relevant properties.
You want to note that although Ssteel machining is straightforward, it is only for the skillful and experienced. We have the expertise, advanced machinery, and resolve to solve your precision machining requirements at Prolean Tech, the crowning being the capability to machine over 100 materials using multiple processes.
Several basic steps make up the steel CNC machining services at Prolean Tech, as discussed next.
Steel CNC Machining Steps
The fundamental steps of CNC machining for other materials apply for steel. The main steps are the following:
CAD Modeling
A CAD Model of a Shaft
The process starts with a computer-aided design (CAD) of the envisaged steel part. We do this process in-house but you can share your design with us if you have it already.
We can customize the design to fit the perfect geometries and dimensional accuracies. Once the design is ready, the designer sends it to a STEP or any other applicable file format.
File Conversion
Next, part details have to be extracted in readiness for sending to the CNC machine and eventual manufacturing. CAM is the most common software for this function. It interacts with the CAD file and generates the M-codes and G-codes for the CNC machine.
G-Code
Setting up the Machine
Before steel machining, the machinist must set up the steel CNC milling machine (or any other CNC machine) and the respective machining tool(s). The main steps here are clamping the steel blocks for machining on the machine’s jaw and doing the same for the cutting tool on the tool post or any other relevant holding component.
Steel CNC machining process
After setting up everything, the operator then switches on the CNC machine and feeds the CNC program into the control panel. Before the actual cutting, it is important to run a dummy machining operation off the CNC program to ensure the program and the general machine setup is error-free.
The CNC program instructs the CNC machine on what operations to do to the last detail. It manipulates the tool’s action and machining characteristics such as tool feed rate, rotation speed, and coolant supply.
What Are the Different Methods of Steel CNC Machining?
Get the best CNC machining services for different steel grades at Prolean Tech. You can never go wrong with us because we have experience working with 100+ material types and 85+ advanced processes.
Most of the steel alloys in the market are easy to machine, but there are still machining considerations to make. The hardness, heat resistance, and desired surface finish are project-specific factors to consider.
Some steel grades are more responsive to heat generated during machining than others. For instance, 410 and 440C stainless steels require solution heat treatment after CNC machining to maintain their desirable properties.
Prolean Tech delivers high-quality steel machining processes, including turning, milling, EDM, threading, and boring. We bank on an experienced team that includes tens of professional engineers who regularly share their insights on the continual optimization of processes based on the unique machining requirements of the specific steel grade.
As indicated above, steel machining is a popular manufacturing method in many industries, helping create numerous products, from auto chassis to airplane components. Machining this popular material and creating components like the landing gear below can take different directions.
Landing gear comprising high-strength steel parts
Here are some of the best CNC machining processes to consider for steel:
Steel CNC Turning
In steel CNC turning, the cutting tool approaches the steel workpiece linearly along the workpiece’s surface. The cutting tool removes material along the circumference of the rotating workpiece. The process continues until the desired diameter is achieved.
CNC turning suits steel in machining because the material makes durable parts. However, challenges such as heat buildup and tool wear require careful machining process management.
The process must incorporate the coolant properly and select the correct carbide tooling and cutting parameters. Machinists prefer 12L14 steel for excellent machinability.
However, if the priority of the turning process is high-strength parts, an alloy such as 4340 steel is used, industries that widely use steel CNC turning are automotive and aerospace, among others.
CNC turning
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Steel CNC Milling
CNC milling is a computer-controlled machining process characterized by the cutting tool removing material from a workpiece. The workpiece is usually stationary on the machine table but could rotate or tilt in some advanced steel CNC milling machines.
Since steel is strong and hard, the milling process must be done with the right cutting speed and coolant, using proper cutting tools. We use the process to build engine blocks, landing gear for planes, AISI 4130 valves, and 4140 steel gearbox housings among others.
CNC Milling
Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)
This is a CNC machining process that removes material from steel using an electric spark. It is a non-conventional method that utilizes the action of current discharge between two electrodes.
EDM method
Some steel grades are too hard, so they are difficult to machine using other methods. If you want to make intricate shapes using the harder steel grades, the EDM method is ideal. It makes it possible to use hardened tool steels like A2 and D2.
We often use EDM for precision car parts, turbine components, and molds manufacture.
You may wonder, what is the difference between EDM and conventional CNC machining? These details will help you find the better manufacturing method: EDM vs CNC: Which Machining Process is Right for You?
CNC Drilling
In CNC drilling, the machine typically moves a drill bit perpendicular to the plane of the steel blocks for machining. This produces holes that are vertically aligned.
Steel is expectedly difficult to drill due to its hardness. However, there are special drills that make it possible to make any type of hole in the metal. Our machinists are also experienced in the selection of the right feed rates and cutting speeds for steel grades.
Drilling
We will use CNC drilling for industrial machinery, engine blocks, and many other components requiring perfect holes in 1018 steel and other grades.
Threading
CNC Threading
CNC threading for steel is the process of using the CNC machine to form spiral grooves on the internal or external diameter of the workpiece. The goal is to generate threads compatible with corresponding parts for successful assembly.
Boring
CNC boring for steel entails enlarging an existing hole using a boring or single-point cutting tool. There are different types of boring including horizontal boring, vertical boring, and precision boring.
When boring aerospace parts, engine cylinders, and many other parts, we consider the toughness of steel through sufficient lubrication, optimized cutting speeds, and rigid boring machinery.
CNC Boring
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Consider These Grades of Steel for CNC Machining
Getting the best steel for machining requires a thorough understanding of the material options. Each grade has its steel machining properties. In this section, we highlight some of the common steel grades suitable for CNC machining.
Experienced in working with over 100 materials, Prolean Tech has all the mechanisms to get the best out of steel grades and other materials. Our team knows the capabilities of popular steel grades like the back of the hand.
We are ready to share this expertise. Contact with ProleanTech Experts to invest your budget at right place.
Some of the steel types that are candidates for CNC machining are:
Alloy steel 4340
Tough and strong, alloy steel 4340 is mostly renowned for its capability to retain its properties at high temperatures. Alloy steel 4340 is a common CNC machined material, but heat-treating it can be challenging.
We can machine thisThis steel grade for landing gear components, crankshafts, piston rods, and generator shafts. It is also applicable for military vehicle components, turbine engine shafts, and connecting rods.
Generally, you need CNC machined parts of this steel grade in high-strength and high-temperature applications.
Alloy Steel 4340
Alloy steel 4140
Alloy steel 4140 is popular for its high strength and hardness. It is easy to improve the properties of this steel through alloy elements. For instance, chromium and molybdenum are often added to enhance corrosion resistance.
The steel is common in CNC machining processes for important parts such as shafts and gears in the automotive industry. In addition to the benefits of steel above, this material is cost-effective. Its versatility and easy machinability contribute to its preference by many machinists in automotive and related industries.
12L14 Steel
12L14 steel is highly machinable but is relatively less strong due to a lower proportion of carbon steel. It is one of the best free machining steel you will find. Other free machining steels include 303 Stainless Steel and 11L14 steel.
With a tensile strength of 231 MPa, this material applies in various industries for components such as couplings and valves. Valve components and fasteners for the industrial machinery industry are widely made using this steel grade.
Other machined 12L14 steel parts are electrical connectors, brake fittings, and small shafts.
1020 steel
This steel grade has low carbon content but it also contains manganese. Other benefits of steel in this grade are a tensile strength of 790 MPa, weldability, and flexibility.
A popular application of 1020 steel is cold-headed fasteners, which are common in engine components, steel bridges, irrigation systems, and household items.
Note that if a steel has low carbon content such as this one, it can be a candidate for galvanization. We discussed the process in detail here: Galvanized Sheet Metal: Applications & Finishing Services.
1045 steel
This steel grade is highly regarded for CNC machined parts that need high impact resistance and good weldability. Its response to heat treatment is relatively good. It is also machinable and offers admirable tensile strength.
For these and other reasons, 1045 steel grade is often CNC machined to produce parts for the manufacturing, automotive, and heavy machinery industries.
If you are in such industries, you can use its machined parts such as crankshafts, fasteners, axles, shafts, and couplings. like shafts and spindles.
Mild steel A36
Sheets of mild steel A36
This low-carbon steel grade is very popular in CNC machining. It is easy to weld and is better than many other grades of steel in terms of cost-effectiveness. Its tensile strength is 250 MPa, which is suitable for many structural applications, including welding ones.
Consider this steel grade for your jigs & fixtures, mounting brackets, truck beds, and tooling components. Other suitable applications are base plates and machined enclosures.
316 steel and 316L can also suit certain circumstances. We have covered these two in detail and showed their differences, as you will find in the guide 316 vs 316L Stainless Steel: Key Differences Explained.
Prolean Tech, Your Ideal Steel CNC Machining Partner
Selecting a steel grade and machining it to perfection is not straightforward. Expert machinists at Prolean Tech have mastered the dos and don’ts of steel CNC machining.
Producing a part within 1 day and ensuring it adheres to qualities worthy of ISO 9001:2015 certification demonstrates years of improvements and technology advancements.
Here are reasons why we are your solutio for the best steel for machining results.
Extensive Expertise
Prolean Tech has proven experience of machining steel and many other materials. We have perfected different steel CNC machining techniques since 2009, when we started operations as a leading solution provider for on-demand manufacturing.
Advanced Technology
Another reason why we score very highly in the steel CNC machining space is the level of technology we use and the range of services we offer. Our state-of-the-art CNC machines guarantee precise and efficient production for every project.
We have machines that can accommodate workpieces of a wide range of sizes. The complexity of the part doesn’t matter.
Quick Turnaround
You may have already read that we can produce parts within a day. You are unlikely to find this kind of capability elsewhere for the same products. Consider our fast production times to keep your business on schedule.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Steel CNC machining at Prolean Tech is cost-effective, with no hidden costs that could jeopardize your budget. We know that competitive pricing without compromising on quality is every client’s desire.
Scalability
In addition, we can handle both small and large orders as your business grows. This scalability means we can always work on projects with finesse and promptness no matter the size.
You can view this CNC Machining Complete Guide With Process, Benefits, & Applications for more on how we ensure we perform all CNC machining projects correctly.
Conclusion
The benefits of steel such as versatility and strength lead to applications across major industries. Many industries use the material to produce parts that keep the world’s operations moving. Despite the potential of problematic CNC machining, the properties of the metal are too good to overlook.
Prolean Tech, backed by years of experience and world-class steel CNC machining equipment, is the center for the best machining services for different steel grades. We are the company to partner with for the best CNC machining solutions for steel and 100+ other materials.
Need cost-effective, high-precision steel CNC machining for your business? Partner with ProleanTech today and get faster production times, lower material waste, and superior product quality.
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FAQs
What is the best steel for CNC machining?
The best steel for machining depends on the specific project or application. For instance, if you are machining the steel for a structural component, you need a strong alloy such as alloy steel 4140.
How much is CNC per hour?
The CNC machining cost per hour depends on several factors including the type of material, the type of CNC material, and the complexity of the CNC-machined part.
What is the most profitable CNC project to sell?
The most profitable CNC project to sell is usually cost-effective to produce, highly customizable, and already in high demand. Examples of such projects are industrial components, automotive parts, and rapid prototypes.
What is steel CNC?
Steel CNC is a broad term encompassing the process of using CNC machines to manipulate steel. It is a widely used method in different industries like automotive and aerospace.
Is 1018 steel hard to machine?
No, 1018 steel is not hard to machine. On the contrary, this is one of the most machinable steel grades.
What is the hardest material to CNC?
The hardest material to CNC is extremely brittle and hard. Inconel, titanium alloys, and tungsten are extremely hard to machine on the CNC machine.
Is A36 better than 1018 for machinability?
No, 1018 steel is better than A36 for machinability.
Is 4140 steel easy to machine?
Yes, 4140 steel is easy to machine, but only if it is heat-treated correctly.
What is the difference between hot rolled and cold rolled steel?
The major difference between these steels is in the manufacturing processes. Hot rolled steel undergoes rolling at around 1700°F while cold rolled steel is processed at room temperature. Due to these differences, these steels have different properties.
Is 4130 machinability better than 4140?
Yes, 4130 steel has better machinability than 4140 steel due to its slightly lower carbon content.
Which steel is easiest to machine?
According to expert machinists, the easiest steel to machine is 12L14 steel, hence its nickname free-machining steel.
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