The methods involved in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining has advanced exponentially over the years. With such technologies, manufacturers can now work with different types of materials like titanium, aluminum, cast iron steel, and more using a variety of techniques such as spot welding, riveting, bead blasting, etc.
Metals generally used in CNC machining have their unique properties that make them perfect for specific applications. For instance, Titanium vs Aluminum argument considers factors such as hardness, durability, strength, corrosion resistance, and weight. Titanium is tougher and stronger than most steels, making it perfect for high-load applications. But its lightweight nature makes aluminium widespread in industries where weight saving yet achieving an excellent structural compliance is crucial. Cast Iron Steel, on the other hand, stands out due to its castability, machinability, excellent wear resistance, and great vibration damping.
On surface finishing techniques, one popular choice is nitride coating. It helps enhance corrosion protection, improve fatigue strength, lower friction, and provide resiliency to bearing ‘edges’. This process works by introducing nitrogen into the ferrous material through temperatures between 495 and 565°C which also scales up service life. Another technique you might find interesting is bead blasting, a method executed under high pressure to smoothen surfaces or shape metals to fit certain designs.
Let’s delve deeper into two essential parts connection methods utilized in the industry; snap-fits and rivets. Snap fits are cost-effective solutions providing quick assembly and disassembly without tools. A common example is a cantilever snap joint, effective for plastic assemblies but can be adapted to metal components too. In this kind of fastener, one end stays anchored while the free end deflects and allows reversible connecting and detaching. Conversely, rivets serve as reliable semi-permanent joints mostly favored in areas where welding can compromise structure integrity. There are many types of rivets out there; some notable ones being pop rivets, solid rivets, and tubular rivets among others.
Applying chamfers – beveled edges at the intersection between two faces of an object- also plays a huge role in CNC machining. Not only does it help rid sharp corners that could lead to cuts during assembly or part handling but it allows for different chamfering tools thus improving finishing and quality particularly on aluminium parts.
In regards to welding, spot welding stands out due to its aptness for high production rates, offset by lower initial equipment costs. This process utilizes heat from electric resistance generated by electrodes applied as a force to the areas to be joined. The result is clean precise joints although good fit-up is essential. Tack welding serves an altogether different purpose. It not only helps hold pieces together before full welding but sets up alignment ensuring your workpiece doesn’t warp or distort during the actual weld. 
Though seemingly complex these processes simplify mass productions. For example, Snap Fit enables straightforward iterations on 3D printed prototypes saving on cost while nitride coating offers surface-hardening solutions extending service life with minimal layer thickness application. Essentially even tack welding will help maneuver larger projects quickly through pre-setup holding sequence before real heavy-duty welding initiates.
Yet being aware of all this is one thing, understanding when best suited to apply them is another. Partnering with experienced CNC machinists who know best how to combine such techniques/materials will ensure you save on costs, improve design efficiency, capitalize on time utility and above all make refined products. Thus embrace CNC Machining! With no doubts, its versatility, precision, automation, and variety of compatible materials makes it second to none.
