Whatsapp Email Get a Auota

CNC Turning vs VMC: Understanding the Differences

CNC turning and VMC, or vertical machining center, are two of the most commonly used machining processes in the manufacturing industry. While they may have some similarities, there are also significant differences between the two. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between CNC turning and VMC so that you can make an informed decision when choosing the right process for your next project.

CNC Turning: An Overview\

CNC turning is a process that involves rotating a workpiece while a cutting tool removes material from it. This is done by clamping the workpiece in a chuck and rotating it while the cutting tool, which is fixed in a tool holder, removes material to create the desired shape. This process is used to create rotational parts, such as cylindrical shapes, using a lathe machine.

In CNC turning, the cutting tool starts from the end of the workpiece and progresses towards the chuck. Typically, the workpiece rotates faster than the cutting tool moves towards it. This creates a cutting action that results in the removal of material and the creation of the desired shape. CNC turning is suitable for producing parts that require a high degree of accuracy and repeatability.

Vertical Machining Center: An Overview\

A VMC, on the other hand, is a machining center that uses a spindle that is perpendicular to the table. The cutting tool is held by a spindle that rotates on a vertical axis, and the workpiece is securely held on a table that moves in three dimensions. The spindle rotates at high speeds, and the cutting tool is moved along the X, Y, and Z axes to remove material and create the desired shape.

VMCs are used for producing parts that require a high degree of precision, as they are capable of producing complex shapes and contours. Unlike CNC turning, VMC can use a variety of cutting tools, including end mills, drills, and taps, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are ideal for producing parts that require intricate shapes and contours.

Differences between CNC Turning and VMC\

The significant differences between CNC turning and VMC are as follows:

1. Orientation\

The orientation of the spindle is one of the most significant differences between CNC turning and VMC. In CNC turning, the spindle is parallel to the workpiece, while in VMC, the spindle is perpendicular to the workpiece.

2. Tooling\

Another key difference between the two processes is the type of tools that can be used. CNC turning uses cutting tools that are fixed in a tool holder, while VMC uses a variety of cutting tools, including end mills, drills, and taps.

3. Workpiece Size\

The size of the workpiece is also a crucial factor when deciding between CNC turning and VMC. CNC turning is ideal for producing cylindrical shapes and parts with a diameter of up to 1 meter, while VMC is suitable for producing larger parts with complex shapes and contours.

4. Complexity of Parts\

The complexity of the parts is another significant difference between the two. While CNC turning is ideal for producing simple cylindrical shapes, VMC is capable of producing complex shapes and contours, making it suitable for parts that require intricate shapes and contours.

Final Thoughts\

In summary, CNC turning and VMC are two different machining processes that have their unique benefits and drawbacks. The decision on which process to use will depend on the specific requirements of the project. CNC turning is ideal for producing simple cylindrical shapes, while VMC is suitable for producing larger parts with complex shapes and contours. By understanding the differences between the two processes, you'll be able to make an informed decision when choosing the right process for your next project.

difference between cnc turning and vmc

On demand manufacturing online CNC Machining Services

If you need custom machined parts with complex geometries, or get end-use products in the shortest possible time, sigma technik limited is good enough to break through all of that and achieve your idea immediately.

  • One -to-one friendly service
  • Instant quota within couple of hours
  • Tolerances down to +-0.01mm
  • From one -off prototypes to full mass production
Mission And Vision

OUR SERVICES

CNC Machining

Equipped with 3-4-5 axis CNC milling and CNC turning machines, which enable us to handle even more complex parts with high precision.

Rapid Injection molding

Low investment, fast lead time, perfect for your start-up business.

Sheet metal

Our talented sheet metal engineers and skilled craftsmen work together to provide high quality custom metal products.

3D Printing

We offer SLA/SLS technologies to transform your 3D files into physical parts.

00+

Delicated Employees

00+

Countries Served

00+

Satisfied Customers

00+

Projects Delivered Per Month

About Us

What can we do?

Sigma Technik Limited, as a prototype production company and rapid manufacturer focusing on rapid prototyping and low volume production of plastic and metal parts, has advanced manufacturing technology, one-stop service, diversified manufacturing methods, on-demand manufacturing services and efficient manufacturing processes, which can provide customers with high-quality, efficient and customized product manufacturing services and help customers improve product quality and market competitiveness.

CNC Machining Case Application Field

CNC machining is a versatile manufacturing technology that can be used for a wide range of applications. Common examples include components for the aerospace, automotive, medical industries and etc.

Automotive components

Aerospace components

Medical components

Metal and plastic processing

Clear optical prototype for CNC machining

Let’s start a great partnership journey!

CNC Machining FAQs

Get the support you need on CNC machining and engineering information by reading the FAQ here.

It may be caused by unstable processing equipment or tool wear and other reasons, so it is necessary to check the equipment and tools in time and repair or replace them.

It may be due to severe wear of cutting tools or inappropriate cutting parameters, which require timely replacement or adjustment of cutting tools or adjustment of machining parameters.

It may be caused by programming errors, program transmission errors, or programming parameter settings, and it is necessary to check and modify the program in a timely manner.

It may be due to equipment imbalance or unstable cutting tools during the processing, and timely adjustment of equipment and tools is necessary.

The quality and usage method of cutting fluid can affect the surface quality of parts and tool life. It is necessary to choose a suitable cutting fluid based on the processing materials and cutting conditions, and use it according to the instructions.

It may be due to residual stress in the material and thermal deformation during processing, and it is necessary to consider the compatibility between the material and processing technology to reduce part deformation.