Industrial manufacturing relies on the machining of mechanical parts. Creating machined components requires precision and technical skill. The process allows raw materials to be transformed into complex, functional parts that are used in a wide range of equipment and machines.
In this article, our industrial machining experts walk you through the process of machining mechanical parts. We’ll look at the different techniques used and their application in various industrial sectors.
What is the machining of mechanical parts?
The machining of mechanical parts is a manufacturing process that involves shaping a blank by selectively removing material to create a part with specific dimensions and shapes.
There are various machining processes, including turning, milling, drilling and grinding, each with specific advantages and applications and all capable of delivering remarkable precision.
It’s possible to work with different types of material to create a wide variety of machined components. Here’s a summary of materials commonly used and their notable traits:
Metals:
- Steel: For strong, durable parts
- Aluminium: Light and easy to machine
- Copper: Good electrical conductor
- Brass: Resistant to corrosion
Plastics and composites: Offer a good alternative when lightness or lower cost is required. They resist corrosion and provide electrical insulation.
Specialized materials:
- Ceramics: Useful for their resistance to high temperatures
- Advanced alloys: Different types offer specific resistance to wear or extreme conditions
Machining mechanical parts: techniques
The machining of mechanical parts encompasses a variety of techniques, each adapted to specific applications and offering unique advantages. Here’s an overview of some common methods:
Machine turning
Machine turning involves rotating the workpiece while a cutting tool is applied.
This method is recognized as a type of precision machining and is used for mass-produced parts. It is ideal for creating cylindrical or conical parts.
Milling
Milling uses a rotating cutter to remove material from a fixed part.
This method is versatile and can produce a wide range of shapes, including slots, gears and grooves.
Drilling
Drilling creates holes in a workpiece using a drill bit.
It’s a simple and effective method for creating holes of various diameters and depths, and is essential for projects requiring bolts or screws.
Mechanical grinding
Mechanical grinding uses abrasive wheels to obtain very smooth surfaces or to generate very tight tolerances.
This process is used for surface finishing on critical parts such as ball bearings or mold surfaces.
Electrical discharge machining (EDM)
Also known as electroerosion machining, this technique uses electrical discharges to erode the material of a part.
This approach works well to produce parts with complex geometries or tight tolerances, and is often used in precision tooling or mold making.
Machining mechanical parts: industrial applications
The machining of mechanical components is important to many industrial sectors. There are a variety of ways this technology can be used to improve the performance and reliability of finished products.
Automotive sector
In the automotive industry, mechanical machining is used to manufacture engine components, gearboxes, suspensions and other critical parts.
The precision of the various steps of the machining process can guarantee optimum vehicle performance, durability and safety.
Aerospace industry
The aerospace industry relies on machining to produce turbine parts, fuselage components and other structural elements.
Machined components can be both light and strong, key factors when it comes to aircraft safety and fuel efficiency.
Energy sector
The energy sector uses machined components for gas turbines, wind turbines and drilling equipment.
Machined parts help optimize the energy efficiency and durability of installations.
Industrial machinery manufacturing
Machined parts are widely used in industrial machinery design, industrial robots and automated production equipment.
Precisely machined parts have a direct impact on the performance and accuracy of machines in manufacturing processes.
Medical technology
In the medical sector, machining is used to produce surgical instruments, implants and some components of diagnostic equipment.
High precision ensures the reliability and safety of medical equipment.
HARtech: machining mechanical parts in Quebec
The machining of mechanical parts is key to modern industry, as this method helps produce precise and reliable components.
At HARtech, we combine technical expertise, innovation and a commitment to quality to offer state-of-the-art machining solutions tailored to your specific needs. For the automotive, aerospace and energy industries, or any other industrial application, HARtech is equipped to meet the challenges of your project with precision and professionalism.
Contact us to find out more about our services. Learn how we can help you achieve your industrial goals.
