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Cylindrical components present unique challenges in manufacturing. An experienced CNC machining company can handle these challenges with ease. However, the design of the component plays a crucial role in determining its functionality, machining efficiency, and overall cost.
In this blog, I’ll share insights into how cylindrical parts are manufactured and highlight my top three design considerations for designers.
**How Are Cylindrical Components Manufactured?**
While many assume that all cylindrical components are turned on a lathe, it's important to understand that milling is also possible. In fact, some features may require milling even if the main shape is turned. For example, certain details might not be accessible using a lathe alone.
There are also mill-turn machines, which combine both turning and milling capabilities. This allows for more complex parts to be produced efficiently on a single machine.
As a designer, you don’t need to worry about the exact manufacturing process. Your CNC machining partner should evaluate your design and choose the most efficient and cost-effective method.
**Designing Cylindrical Components**
Your design choices have a direct impact on the performance, production time, and cost of your part. Here are my top three design considerations:
**1. Wall Thickness**
Thin walls can lead to distortion or warping during machining, especially when held by the chuck. The force required to secure the workpiece may cause deformation, making it harder to maintain the desired radius. Additionally, thin walls can lead to vibration, affecting surface finish and tolerance.
If thin walls are necessary, be aware that this will increase setup and machining time, leading to higher costs. Consider using a reasonable thickness to improve efficiency and reduce expenses.
**2. Cylinder Length**
Longer cylinders can experience wobbling due to rotation, leading to inaccuracies. Flexing during machining can also affect surface finish and precision. Using a center can help stabilize longer parts, but it adds complexity and cost.
Machining without a center is possible, but it often requires more time and effort to achieve the desired quality.
**3. Feature Placement**
Ensuring that features match on both ends of a cylinder can be challenging. If alignment is critical, it may increase machining and setup time. However, if orientation isn't important, specifying "orientation not important" can allow the manufacturer more flexibility, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
**Conclusion**
When designing cylindrical components, you don’t need to worry about the manufacturing process itself. A reliable CNC machining supplier will take care of that. What you can control is ensuring your design is optimized for manufacturability, which helps keep costs under control and improves efficiency.
Need help with your design? Partnering with a CNC machining company that offers design advice can make a big difference. They can guide you in balancing form, function, efficiency, and cost.
**Partner with Penta**
Penta is an expert in both turning and milling. We offer valuable machining design advice and have mill-turn machines that combine the best of both worlds. This technology improves speed, accuracy, and efficiency when machining complex cylindrical parts.
If you'd like to discuss how we can support your next project, contact our friendly estimating team at 023 9266 8334 or email sales@pentaengineering.co.uk.
You can also book a Discovery Call with us here.
