FAQ

• What's the difference between CNC grinding and CNC milling?

  Milling uses rotating multi-flute cutters to remove large amounts of material quickly. Grinding uses abrasive wheels to remove very small amounts at high precision — it's used after rough machining to hit tight dimensional tolerances (±0.002–0.005 mm) and achieve fine surface finishes (Ra 0.2–0.8 μm) that milling can't reach. If your part needs bearing-fit tolerances, sealing surfaces, or mirror finishes, grinding is the answer.

• What tolerances can CNC grinding hold?

  For most jobs: ±0.01 mm on dimensions, Ra 0.4–0.8 μm on surface finish. For precision applications — bearing seats, gauge pins, sealing surfaces — we can hold ±0.005 mm on diameter. Share your drawing and we'll confirm what's achievable before quoting.

• How much stock should I leave for grinding?

  As a rule of thumb, leave 0.1–0.3 mm of stock per surface for rough-machined parts going to grinding, and 0.05–0.1 mm for semi-finished parts. If you're not sure, share your process drawing and we'll advise. Leaving too little means we can't clean up the surface fully; too much slows the process and may generate heat that affects the material.

• Do you grind aluminum and non-ferrous materials?

  Yes. We grind aluminum, brass, copper, and titanium. Non-ferrous materials require different wheel types and dressing intervals to avoid loading. We adjust the setup accordingly.

• Can grinding be the only operation, or does my part need CNC machining first?

  Both are possible. If you're starting from stock bar or plate, the part typically needs rough CNC machining first to remove bulk material, leaving a controlled stock for grinding. If you're supplying a pre-machined part for a final grind, we can work directly from your semi-finished component. We handle both routes.

• What is your MOQ for grinding jobs?

  No minimum — we take single-piece prototype work. Sample lead time is typically 3–10 working days for standard materials and operations.