Key Points | Considerations |
Material Selection | Choose the appropriate material for the intended application, considering factors such as strength, machinability, and cost. Different materials may require specific tooling and cutting parameters. |
Feature Size and Tolerances | Design features with suitable dimensions and tolerances that align with CNC machining capabilities. Consult with your manufacturer to determine achievable tolerances for different features. |
Avoid Sharp Internal Corners | Internal corners with sharp angles can be challenging to machine accurately. Use fillets or radii to avoid sharp corners and improve machining precision. |
Minimize Undercuts | Minimize the presence of undercuts or features that could prevent the tool from reaching certain areas during machining. Such features may require specialized tooling or additional operations. |
Wall Thickness | Ensure uniform wall thickness in the design, especially for parts intended for casting or molding after CNC machining. Even wall thickness promotes consistent material flow and minimizes defects. |
Consider Machining Direction | Take into account the direction of tool movements during machining. Optimizing tool paths can significantly impact surface finish and machining time. |
Avoid Overhangs | For milling processes, try to avoid large unsupported overhangs as they may lead to vibration, deflection, and poor surface finish. Consider adding support structures or choose alternative machining methods like 5-axis machining. |
Hole Sizes | Select appropriate hole sizes, especially for drilled holes. Avoid extremely small holes that could cause drilling difficulties or compromise structural integrity. |
Add Draft Angles | For parts to be molded or cast after CNC machining, incorporate draft angles to facilitate easy ejection of the part from the mold. |
Consider Post-Machining Processes | Plan for any additional processes such as heat treatment, surface finishing, or coatings that may be required after CNC machining. |
CAD Model Inspection | Validate your CAD model for potential design errors or issues that could affect CNC machining. Ensure the model is accurate, and dimensions are properly defined. |
Communication with Manufacturer | Work closely with your CNC machining manufacturer throughout the design process. They can provide valuable insights, offer suggestions for improvements, and inform you about any design limitations. |