What is the difference between CNC turning and grinding?

We have a ton of different metal forming classes at JIUDING, and the real secret is that we still only teach by 10-week-long classes because each aspect of shaping sheet steel demands its own highly-in inner skill set. Everything can be done using these two most brilliant tools known as CNC turning solutions and grinding. It sounds super difficult, but it is not that hard at all. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Which means we delegate the work of our machines to a computer. This can make the process more appropriate and efficient. 

So, how does that break down into turning and grinding? Turning: In turning the work piece is rotating slow and tool follows its path. This is to make the right shape of metal. For instance, if we were making a cylinder then turning can be used to give shape. Grinding however is a different story. Grinding uses a rough material which scrapes parts of the metal away. This slowly grinds away the metal to make it look exactly how we want. 

Diving into CNC Turning vs. Grinding

This is beneficial because there are pros and cons to CNC  turning center as well as grinding. Let’s start with turning. Turning is AWESOME for doing curves. I mean like cylinders or cones. And the process can be very rapid, it allows us to produce parts we need quick. What's more, turning is also an essentially non-wasteful process. This is meaningful in that using less material would save money. 

Finally, we have grinding. Grinding is used to create parts that require exact dimensions of the block. There is no margin of error, so we have to be very precise. If a part has to have crisp edges (corners) or should be perfectly planar we would grind it. But grinding takes longer than turning. It also consumes more material so costs a bit higher. 

System Characteristics: Turning vs Grinding CNC Processes

The tool we use for CNC turning is one of the largest differences between turning and grinding. We employ a single-point cutting tool when turning. This tool rides across the metal and shaves away excess material as it travels. However, it is highly effective for forming round shapes. Grinding: Grinding is done using the nearest shape material and it removes metal which we have used in grinding. Grinding is ideal for creating features with sharp edges and hard right angles. 

Speed of forming metal is another critical variable. Turning is a quick process. This can be great for a production environment as we could do many parts all at once. Grinding, as it does not machine intermediate steps, still takes much longer due to having all components closely examined for final fit prior on going to the next one. This is a necessary check, but also costs more in both dollars and time that you could be using to pull out parts instead of making chips as grinding does. 

CNC Turning and Grinding Comparisons

CNC turning vs. grinding comparison complexity of the part to be produced turning: best for little, round things (like tiny cylinders), easy parts. Grinding is superior for creating larger shapes or those with higher complexity when compared to milling. This may include parts used in more detailed machinery or engine components. 

The material type we need to consider. Software such as aluminum or brass. It is physically possible to mould those materials Grinding is still better suited for hard materials like steel or Titanium. This is because the abrasive material used in grinding can much more readily wear hard materials than cutting tools which are slower to abrade away on a CNC turning center. 

What to look for when choosing between CNC Turning and Grinding Techniques? 

Here are a few things you must take into account when deciding between CNC  turning production or grinding. To start off, let's talk about the type of part you want to create by its size and complexity. If it is a small shape with little detail, Turning seems to have the advantage This said, for larger solid cylinder or multi-concentration RSA grades that have been on the market longer you may still need to grind. 

Now, consider the material you would like to used in your component. The softer material will typically be better for turning, and the harder material best suited for grinding. In conclusion, budget and time are two of the most important variables. While turning is typically performed at higher speeds, it can also be more cost-effective than grinding with a better granularity of precision and tolerances. 

JIUDING has a lot of years’ experience to CNC turning, grinding Whether you require a single, basic part or something large and intricate in shape, we are here for you. Our materials include aluminum, brass, steel and titanium. Contact us today to learn more about our CNC turning and grinding capabilities. I would love to help you on your projects.