CNC machining
You'll find everything from standard drill bit sizes and thread types to detailed information about surface finishes and heat treatments in our CNC machining knowledge base. Read through the resources to improve your designs for CNC machining.

What materials do we offer for CNC machining?
What’s the best material for machining your parts? Check out this side-by-side comparison of the strength, price and application for CNC plastics and metals (in a handy, printable poster).

What is CNC machining?
What is CNC machining and how does it work? Learn the basic principles and fundamental mechanics, as well as the key benefits and limitations, of this subtractive manufacturing process.

Standard drill bit sizes for CNC machining (conversion tables)
Use these tables of standard drill bit sizes (metric, fractional inch, and wire gauge) common in CNC machining to reduce manufacturing costs from custom tooling.

Selecting the right CNC material
This comprehensive guide compares the 25 most common materials used in CNC machining and helps you choose the right one for your application.

What are the types of surface finishes for CNC machining?
What surface finishes are available for CNC machining? You can apply post-processing and surface finishes to improve the surface roughness, cosmetic properties and wear resistance of metal parts. Learn about the most common ways to finish CNC-machined parts and how to select the best methods for your applications.

Producing low-cost cast metal parts using 3D printing
Learn how castable FDM prints can be used to produce low-cost metal parts via investment casting.

Standard blank sizes for CNC machining (sheets & rods)
Tables of the standard blank sizes (sheets & rods) commonly used in CNC machining.

Heat treatments for CNC machined parts
Learn how heat treatments can be applied to many metal alloys to drastically improve key physical properties like hardness, strength and machinability.

How to prepare a technical drawing for CNC machining
How do you prepare technical drawings for CNC machining and why are they important? Technical drawings are widely used in manufacturing to improve the communication of technical requirements between the designer and engineer and the manufacturer.

How to design parts for CNC machining
In this complete guide to designing for CNC machining, we've compiled basic & advanced design practices and tips to help you achieve the best results for your custom parts.