
Precision CNC Machining
CNC (computer numerical control) is the automation of machine instruments through the use of computers which have been programmed to execute any number of commands. From wood routing to laser cutting and 3D printing, there are CNC machines for nearly every commercially utilized manufacturing process and application.
Precision CNC machining works with a variety of materials including metals, woods, acrylics, foams, and thermoplastics.
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What is precision CNC machining?
CNC systems vary in their composition as some systems combine all necessary tools into a single unit while other designs may consist of individual, tool-specific units interconnected by external controllers. Regardless of their specific composition, all modern CNC systems provide automation of the design and manufacturing process of a machined part.
While CAD (computer-aided design) software defines the physical boundaries of an end product, CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software translates those dimensions into manufacturing commands. Through the use of post-processing software, these commands are translated and loaded into a CNC machine.

About our precision CNC machining services
The major advantages of CNC precision machining include the production of complex precision machined parts with a high degree of accuracy while maintaining lower production and setup costs. CNC machining assists in improving the overall degree of accuracy because it is a reliable and fully developed technology that greatly eliminates the possibility of human error.
Moreover, by freeing time from operators within the production process, attention can be focused on quality assurances and offering project oversight, which helps ensure the detailed requirements of production processes are met.
Regarding the reduction of costs, precision CNC machining not only cuts costs by reducing the necessity of skilled operators but also reduces the overall amount of material waste.
Another advantage of CNC precision machining is the improvement of workflows from CNC prototyping to full-scale production. At the prototyping level, CNC machines allow developers to quickly build functional designs that can be used for testing. Then, when a demand builds in the marketplace, precision CNC machining can quickly allow for a shift into full-scale development.
At each step, turnaround times are dramatically reduced, allowing companies the ability to greatly reduce missed opportunity costs.
Our CNC precision machining capabilities
Since 1980, The Federal Group USA has provided CNC precision machining services to many types of wide-ranging industries including automotive, agricultural, furniture manufacturers, healthcare, and consumer goods industries.
Our stocking arrangements allow for an uninterrupted supply in which volume is never an issue and high and low capacity production runs are readily within reach. Our state-of-the-art precision CNC milling machines are available at sizes of up to 84” in the x-axis and 50” in the y-axis as well as in 3, 4, and 5 axis verticals.
Types of CNC machines
3 axis milling machines
3 axis milling involves the manual milling of parts along the x, y, and z-axis. While other machines notable have a moving bed, the 3-axis system remains still while the cutter operated. These models are multifunctional and accurate machines that are designed for the milling of sharp edges as well as well-defined holes and slots.
While this form of milling is capable of producing the same products as 4 and 5 axis milling, 3 axis milling is limited in the level of detail and efficiency it can deliver in comparison to both 4 and 5 axis machines.
4 axis milling machines
The 4 axis machines include the same 3-axis’ listed above but also include an additional rotary axis. While it is surpassed in capabilities by the more advanced 5-axis machines, it is still one of the most popular milling options and can be used for many designs, research, and prototyping purposes.
Only a step away from the highest grade milling machines available, a 4 axis milling machine is vertically operated and functions in a high capacity manner. These machines offer a higher grade of detailed work and offer a higher competency than the 3 axis machines.
5 axis milling machines
5-axis CNC machines are the fastest and most precise milling machines on the market. In addition to utilizing the x, y, and z linear axes, the 5 axis machine can rotate in 2 (A and B) axes which allows the tool to mill components from any direction.
As such, these machines can produce the most complicated geometries available and are capable of not only complex shapes, but undercuts and nearly unlimited angulated surfaces and finishes. By utilizing an expanded number of planes, cycle times are drastically reduced by nearly 1/3rd the time required for a 3 axis machine. Our 5 axis CNC machining services are truly second to none.
Superior to both 3 and 4 axis machines, these machines have the capability to produce the most complex and intricate designs possible. At TFG USA, we specialize in providing 5 axis CNC machining services that boast the highest accuracy, most intricate finishes, and quickest production available.
Precision CNC machining applications
Precision manufacturing has gained a significant market share in manufacturing because it can support a variety of applications and does so in an extremely cost-effective manner. Precision machine tooling techniques have been applied across industries including:
Aerospace and Aircraft
Planes require highly precise equipment and a single error can cause severe damage. CNC Precision machining processes are used by the aerospace industry for producing many components such as air-foil and air-tuning systems.
Medical, Dental, and Orthopedic
The medical field changes rapidly, resulting in the constant requirement of new equipment. In Precision CAD machining produces much of this equipment. Examples include orthopedics, safety trays, implants, imaging machines, research equipment, and others.
Automotive industry
As carmakers look for new products for their cars, they must develop prototypes before launching them on production lines. Precision CNC machining has the ability to manufacture and develop prototypes based on specific requirements.
Materials that are machined
Typical materials that are precision CNC machined include:
- Copper
- Iron
- Alloy
- Titanium
- Zinc
In fact, virtually every material is possible using precision CNC machines, depending on the application.
How precise can a CNC machine be?
CNC machining has become a common manufacturing process today. High precision and accuracy is required for parts and assemblies with tight tolerances. Using CNC machining it is possible to achieve tolerances as small as +/- 0.01 mm.
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Contact us to learn more about our CNC precision machining services and how we can help you with your production requirements.