
3-Axis CNC Milling Machine: How It Works and Uses
A three-axis CNC milling machine removes material by controlling the relative movement between a rotating cutting tool and a workpiece along three linear axes: X, Y, and Z.
Capabilities
CNC MachiningCNC milling, 5-axis machining & CNC turning› 3D PrintingSLA, MJF, SLS & DMLS 3D printing› Vacuum CastingSilicone mold making, urethane casting & vacuum-cast prototypes› Sheet Metal FabricationLaser cutting, bending & welding› Injection MoldingLow-volume, insert & overmolding› Rapid ToolingPrototype tooling for molded-part validation› Die CastingAluminum, zinc & magnesium die casting› Metal StampingPrecision & progressive stamping› Surface FinishingBlasting, anodizing, plating, coating & polishing›CNC Machining
Browse by Material
AluminumLightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum for CNC-machined prototypes, brackets, housings, and precision parts.› Stainless SteelCorrosion-resistant stainless steel for CNC-machined components, tooling, and parts used in clean or demanding environments.› SteelVersatile steel for CNC-machined structural parts, fixtures, shafts, brackets, and production tooling.› ZincZinc for compact die-cast housings, hardware, and detailed industrial components where fine detail matters.› CopperHigh-conductivity copper for electrical contacts, connectors, heat-transfer parts, and precision components.› BrassMachinable brass for fittings, valves, electrical hardware, bushings, and precision turned parts.› TitaniumHigh-strength, lightweight titanium for aerospace, medical, and performance-critical machined components.› MagnesiumUltra-lightweight magnesium for weight-sensitive housings, structural components, and machined prototypes.› BronzeWear-resistant bronze for bushings, bearings, marine hardware, and sliding mechanical components.› IronDurable iron for fixtures, tooling, structural components, and wear-focused industrial applications.› ABSImpact-resistant ABS for machined prototypes, housings, fixtures, and functional appearance parts.›Resources
Manufacturing insights, technology updates, and practical articles for engineers and product development teams.

A three-axis CNC milling machine removes material by controlling the relative movement between a rotating cutting tool and a workpiece along three linear axes: X, Y, and Z.

Common types of welding in sheet metal include TIG, MIG/MAG, resistance spot welding, and laser welding.

The most important features in CNC milling tools are the cutter’s shape, diameter, reach, flute count, base material, and coating.