Trusted by leading industry professionals since 2017

Craftcloud Makes CNC Machining Seamless

At Craftcloud, we have always been at the forefront of transforming ideas into reality with our industry-leading 3D printing service offering. To complement your workflow or support you in entirely new projects, we are also proud to offer CNC machining solutions.

Alongside our partners' renowned 3D printing capabilities, you can leverage the precision and versatility of CNC machining for a streamlined venture. You can take your project from a 3D printed prototype to a finished CNC machined part on the same platform.

Our global manufacturing network ensures unparalleled quality and affordability, whether it's an intricate proof of concept or a large-scale production run.

Experience the best of both worlds – the innovation of 3D printing and the precision of CNC machining, all with one trusted partner, Craftcloud.

What Is CNC Machining?

CNC machining is a subtractive process where the material is removed from a solid block using computerized controls and machine tools, yielding detailed parts based on digital 3D models. This is the opposite of 3D printing, which is an additive process where objects are built layer-by-layer from digital 3D models.

The main CNC technologies include:

  • Milling: Rotary cutters are used to remove material from a workpiece that is precisely moved by a motorized table.
  • Turning: The workpiece rotates against a cutting tool.
  • Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM): The workpiece is shaped using electrical sparks.

The Technologies

Each CNC technology offers distinct advantages, catering to varied manufacturing objectives.

CNC Milling

CNC milling uses a spinning cutting tool to shape a stationary block of material, creating holes, pockets, and detailed features in metals and plastics.

3-axis milling works best for flat parts, 4-axis adds part rotation for side features, and 5-axis allows the tool to approach from almost any angle for complex shapes in fewer setups.

CNC Turning

CNC turning spins the material on a lathe while a cutting tool shapes it. This method is mainly used for round parts such as shafts, tubes, and rings, creating smooth, precise cylindrical shapes.

CNC turning is highly efficient for high-volume production because parts can be made quickly with excellent repeatability.

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM)

EDM shapes metal using tiny electrical sparks instead of cutting tools. It is useful for very hard materials and for making deep, narrow, or very detailed features that are difficult to machine by other methods.

Because EDM produces very precise finishes without mechanical cutting forces, it is ideal for delicate or extremely hard materials.

CNC Machining Technologies Offer...

  • Broad Material Range & Finishes
  • Precision Prototyping
  • Mass Production
  • Industry Certifications

Broad Material Range & Finishes

CNC machining materials are generally metals and plastics, but there are also composites and ceramics. At Craftcloud, you can find an ever-growing material list.

There are also different finishes according to the material – standard (as machined), anodized, bead blasted, and more.

As always, we prioritize our customers' needs. If a material or finish isn't listed or isn't available, don't hesitate to let us know. We will do our best to find the right manufacturing partner that can provide the solution you are looking for.

Precision Prototyping

CNC machining turns a digital design into a physical part with extreme dimensional accuracy. This is a measure of how closely the finished part matches the exact sizes and shapes in your 3D model.

Because CNC machines use computerized numerical control, they follow complex toolpaths with microscopic consistency. This ensures that every hole, slot, and contour is carved exactly where you intended.

Achieving high dimensional accuracy also involves holding tight tolerances, often as precise as ±0.010 mm. This level of detail is vital when testing how different parts fit together, as it eliminates the guesswork often found in the design process.

With CNC machining, you can test your ideas with confidence, knowing that the part in your hand is a perfect physical version of your digital drawing.

Mass Production

CNC machining is often associated with custom prototypes, yet its true strength lies in its ability to consistently handle mass production. Once a digital toolpath is optimized, the process can be repeated thousands of times, ensuring that the thousandth part is a highly consistent replica of the first.

This repeatability is a cornerstone of industrial manufacturing, allowing companies to scale production without the risk of dimensional drift or human error.

In addition to this, CNC machining serves as a competitive alternative to injection molding for complex metal components that require both high strength and high precision. Its cost-efficiency becomes most apparent as production scales; the cost-per-unit drops significantly as the volume increases.

This makes it an ideal choice for high-performance industries that demand the material integrity of solid metals combined with the economic benefits of large-scale production.

Industry Certifications

Industry certifications are essential benchmarks that validate a manufacturer's commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence. In precision manufacturing, these credentials serve as a foundation of trust, proving that a facility follows strictly documented procedures and maintains high standards for part traceability and process control. For customers in highly regulated sectors, working with a certified partner is often a mandatory requirement to ensure that every component meets rigorous safety and performance thresholds.

The most common certifications in the CNC machining industry include:

  • ISO 9001: The world's most widely adopted quality management standard, it focuses on consistent process controls and continuous improvement across any sector.
  • AS9100: The gold standard for the aerospace and defense industries, it builds upon ISO 9001 with additional requirements for risk management and full material traceability.
  • ISO 13485: A specific quality management system tailored for the medical device industry, it emphasizes safety and regulatory compliance throughout the product lifecycle.
  • ITAR Compliance: Essential for defense-related projects, these regulations ensure that sensitive military technology and data are handled securely and only accessed by authorized personnel.
  • NADCAP: An accreditation for "Special Processes" – such as heat treating, welding, and chemical processing – that validates a shop's technical mastery of complex manufacturing cycles.

You can find the certifications each manufacturer holds on their specific profile page. If you need special guidance or want to enquire further on the topic, don't hesitate to contact our team.

CNC Machining or 3D Printing?

If you are working on the goals and budget of your project and don't know which manufacturing method is most suitable, the following can present a general overview of which one might be best according to your needs.

CNC Machining

We use this term to generally refer to manufacturing processes that include milling, turning, and electrical discharge machining (EDM).

  • Subtractive process
    An object is created by removing parts from the original material.
  • Dimensional accuracy
    The subtractive manufacturing process allows for tight tolerances – with a standard ±0.125 mm.
  • Durable parts
    Parts machined from aluminum, stainless steel, and more, will provide long-lasting results.
  • Larger size
    Because there is no restriction to a print bed, larger models can be manufactured without the need to split and merge them.
  • Large volume orders
    CNC machining is most cost-effective for large volume orders.
  • For industrial purposes
    Depending on the material, the impact-, heat-, and chemical-resistance make CNC machined parts ideal for functional and demanding use.

3D Printing

This generally encompasses fused deposition modeling (FDM), resin-based printing (SLA, MSLA, DLP), binder jetting (MJF), powder bed fusion (SLS), and more.

  • Additive process
    An object is created layer by layer.
  • Complex geometries
    Designs with complex geometries are easier to create through additive manufacturing.
  • Wide material range
    Because there are more additive manufacturing technologies, there are more material and finish options.
  • Quick turnaround time
    From design to post-processing, 3D printing production has faster workflows.
  • More accessible
    Given the variety of 3D printing technologies and materials, more budget-friendly options are available.
  • For prototypes and consumables
    If you need fewer models or those in materials that cannot be CNC machined, because of the general lower price point, additive manufacturing would be more suitable.

Why Choose CNC Machining

Plastic CNC Machining

Plastic CNC machining offers unparalleled precision for intricate designs across a range of materials, from impact-resistant ABS to flame-resistant polycarbonate. It ensures durable and accurate components suitable for prototyping and end-use applications.

Metal CNC Machining

Metal CNC machining transforms materials like aluminum and steel into components with exceptional precision. It's ideal for projects that require strength combined with intricate detailing.

Composite CNC Machining

Using advanced composites, such as carbon fiber-reinforced plastics, composite CNC machining offers unparalleled strength and precision. This approach yields parts that harness the unique benefits and durability of blended materials.

Every Project Is Unique

That's why we're proud to offer CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, casting and molding, and 3D printing services. We're here to guide you toward optimal outcomes, in terms of speed, cost, and quality, ensuring your vision is realized in its best possible form.

Why Craftcloud

  1. Expertise & Experience

    No matter the intricacy of your project, at Craftcloud, we are primed to assist you down to the smallest detail. Every inquiry is met with a commitment to make sure your vision is realized to its fullest potential.

  2. Quick Turnaround

    Time is money. We pride ourselves on not just the quality but the speed of our service, ensuring you meet your deadlines.

  3. Transparent Pricing

    No hidden costs. You get a competitive quote upfront, ensuring budget clarity from the start.

  4. State-Of-The-Art Equipment

    Our global manufacturing network is equipped with the latest CNC machinery and promises superior quality on every project.

Let Us Help You Make Your Project a Reality

Reach out to our sales team today for a personalized CNC machining quote. We provide full transparency and support in getting you the best offer from our manufacturing partners.

Explore Our Other Manufacturing Services

3D Printing Services

We provide advanced 3D printing services, turning your designs into high-quality prototypes and products. From plastics to metals, we offer it all.

Sheet Metal Fabrication Services

We offer specialized sheet metal fabrication services, tailored to meet the unique demands of your projects with precision and quality.

Casting & Molding Services

At Craftcloud, we excel in advanced casting and molding services, including vacuum casting and injection molding, delivering precision and quality for all project sizes.

What Our Customers Say

Neil Ramsay
Neil Ramsay
CEO, Montgomery-Ramsay Jewellery
"From its slick interface to its top-notch customer service, Craftcloud makes everything from prototyping to production so much easier. We consider Craftcloud to be an indispensable partner on our design and production journey."
Khalid Bou-Rabee
Khalid Bou-Rabee
Founder, Harambe System
"Craftcloud has been a joy to work with. They reply promptly to support requests and have done a stellar job with every project I have given them. When it comes to quality manufacturing, I highly recommend you try Craftcloud first."
Nikk Wong
Nikk Wong
Engineer, Juni
"I was spending weeks jumping from website to website trying to find vendors who could quickly deliver affordable & durable prototypes. After finding Craftcloud I never had to look anywhere else."

Full Support with Craftcloud

Craftcloud seamlessly supports your journey from the initial prototype to the final product. Our expertise, coupled with our partners' advanced manufacturing capabilities, ensures every phase of your project receives the utmost precision and care.

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