Engineering decisions, organised
CNC Milling, Turning & EDM
Compare milling, turning, Swiss machining and EDM by tool access, rotational geometry, setup count and the features each process can finish.
Updated October 11, 2026 · 35 focused articles
Find the guide for your next decision
Follow the guide that matches the feature, failure mode or project decision you are working on.
What is CNC Machining?A Complete Guide to Processes,Advantages,and Applications
Read the focused guide for cnc machining?a complete guide to processes,advantages,and applications.
History of CNC Machining: The Origins and Development of Computer Numerical Control
The Origins and Development of Computer Numerical Control
What Are Automated Precision Cells?
Read the focused guide for automated precision cells.
How to Replicate Obsolete Machine Parts Without Drawings?
Read the focused guide for replicate obsolete machine parts without drawings.
Custom CNC Machining: Fast, Precise, Repeatable Parts for Prototyping and Production
Fast, Precise, Repeatable Parts for Prototyping and Production
On-Demand Manufacturing: Turning Design Into Real Parts Without Mass Production
Turning Design Into Real Parts Without Mass Production
EDM Processing: Precision Non-Traditional Machining for Complex Metal Features
Precision Non-Traditional Machining for Complex Metal Features
Boring & Reaming: Getting Precision Holes Right in CNC Machining Projects
Getting Precision Holes Right in CNC Machining Projects
Custom Shafts Pins: From Prototype to Reliable Power Transmission Parts
From Prototype to Reliable Power Transmission Parts
What Are Bushings and Spacers in Custom Manufacturing?
Read the focused guide for bushings and spacers in custom manufacturing.
What Are High-Speed Spindles and When Do They Matter?
Read the focused guide for high-speed spindles and when do they matter.
What Is a Hard Turning Service and When Should You Use It?
Read the focused guide for a hard turning service and when should you use it.
What Is Large Diameter Turning?
Read the focused guide for large diameter turning.
What Is Deep Cavity Milling?
Read the focused guide for deep cavity milling.
What Is 5-Axis CAM Programming and When Should You Use It?
Read the focused guide for 5-axis cam programming and when should you use it.
How Does Undercut Machining Work?
Read the focused guide for undercut machining work.
How Should You Approach Complex Parts Machining?
Read the focused guide for how should you approach complex parts machining.
CNC Turning or CNC Milling: Which Process Fits Your Part?
Which Process Fits Your Part?
Swiss Machining Guide: Small-Diameter Precision and the Guide Bushing
Small-Diameter Precision and the Guide Bushing
CNC Machining for Oil and Gas: Sour Service, Traceability, and Pressure Parts
Sour Service, Traceability, and Pressure Parts
Thread Milling vs Tapping: How to Choose for a Specific Internal Thread
How to Choose for a Specific Internal Thread
CNC Turning Guide: Design, Setup, and Drawing Callouts for Rotational Parts
Design, Setup, and Drawing Callouts for Rotational Parts
Types of CNC Machines: A Complete Overview
A Complete Overview
Large CNC Parts: Machine Travel, Residual Stress, and Split-Design Decisions
Machine Travel, Residual Stress, and Split-Design Decisions
CNC Turning for Short-Run Orders: Setup Economics for 1 to 500 Parts
Setup Economics for 1 to 500 Parts
Bar Stock Selection for CNC Turning: Grades, Sizes, and Machinability
Grades, Sizes, and Machinability
Second Operations for Turned Parts: Milling, Grinding, and Threading After the Lathe
Milling, Grinding, and Threading After the Lathe
3+2 vs. Simultaneous 5-Axis: Setup Strategy and Accuracy Compared
Setup Strategy and Accuracy Compared
Metal Hardness Comparison for Machined Parts: Rockwell, Brinell, and Vickers
Rockwell, Brinell, and Vickers
Wire EDM vs Sinker EDM: Picking the Process by Feature Geometry
Picking the Process by Feature Geometry
5-Axis CNC Machining: When Multi-Axis Setup Beats Extra Fixtures
When Multi-Axis Setup Beats Extra Fixtures
CNC Prototyping Services: What to Compare Before You Release a Batch
What to Compare Before You Release a Batch
Rapid Prototyping CNC Machining: How Setup Count Sets the Lead Time
How Setup Count Sets the Lead Time
What Are Secondary Operations In CNC Machining
Read the focused guide for secondary operations in cnc machining.
Best CNC Machining for Prototype Performance Parts: What Actually Limits Accuracy
What Actually Limits Accuracy
Before you release the project
- Define the function, environment and the question this batch must answer.
- Specify material grade, geometry, quantity, finish and the dimensions that control fit.
- Agree the inspection method and the evidence required to accept the parts.
- Record the drawing revision and approval before production begins.
Common planning questions
Which CNC process should I consider first?
Start with the geometry. Rotational parts are usually candidates for turning; pockets and planar faces suggest milling. Tool access, setups and hardened features decide whether multi-axis machining or EDM adds value.
Should every dimension have a tight tolerance?
Specify tight limits only where fit or function requires them, and define how those features will be measured. Broad tight-tolerance notes can add cost without improving the part.
What should accompany the CAD model?
Provide a controlled drawing, material grade, quantity, critical dimensions, finish and inspection requirements. Identify cosmetic and sealing surfaces before the quote.
Move from guidance to a reviewed project
Send the CAD model and drawing with material, quantity, finish and inspection requirements. Use the relevant service page to review the available manufacturing route.