CNC Milled Part

Online CNC Machining Service for Custom Parts

Machined prototypes and production parts in as fast as 1 day. Request an online quote today. 

Certifications
ISO 9001:2015 | AS9100D | ITAR Registered


 


Partnering with NASA to Create Components via Generative Design

Learn how we partnered with NASA to prototype a generatively designed moon exploration tool on an ultra-quick timeline. 

Read more about this novel collaboration

 

CNC Machining Capabilities


CNC Milling

CNC milling is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses 3-axis milling and 5-axis indexed milling processes to cut solid plastic and metal blocks into final parts.

Capabilities →

Design Guidelines →

CNC Turning

CNC turning with live tooling combines both lathe and mill capabilities to machine parts with cylindrical features from metal rod stock.

Capabilities →

Design Guidelines →

Protolabs Network

Our manufacturing network provides advanced CNC machining capabilities like tighter tolerances, volume pricing, and anodizing options.

Capabilities →

Design Guidelines →


CNC Machining Materials


Metals

 

Plastics

 

Looking for additional metal like Inconel, Ivar, or magnesium? How about plastics like fiber epoxy or Garolite? Try our digital network at Hubs



Why Choose Us for Custom CNC Machining?



Fast and Reliable Delivery

Iterate part designs quickly and accelerate product development with quick-turn parts. Our automated design analysis will help spot any difficult to machine features before your design is sent to the manufacturing floor and save you from costly reworks further down the product development cycle.

Manufacturing Analysis and Online Quotes

When you upload your 3D CAD file to request a quote, we'll analyze your part geometry to identify any features that may be difficult to machine such as tall, thin walls or holes that cannot be threaded.

Domestic Production and Support

Work with a trusted U.S.-based manufacturer and eliminate the risk of sending parts overseas. You can also call or email us at any time and we'll help with ordering parts, design feedback, material recommendations, and answer any questions.

Infinite Capacity

Eliminate downtime spent waiting for parts and safeguard in-house machining with on-demand relief and infinite manufacturing capacity.

Material Selection

We stock more than 30 engineering-grade plastic and metal materials that are suitable for various part applications and industries. Materials range from plastics like ABS, polycarbonate, nylon, and PEEK to aluminum, stainless steel, platinum, and copper.

Advanced Capabilities

Get anodizing, tighter tolerances, and volume pricing options through our network of manufacturers at Hubs. You'll find plating (black oxide, nickel), anodizing (Type II, Type III), and chromate coating in larger part quantities; tolerances down to ±0.001 in. (0.020mm); and cost-efficient machined parts at higher volumes to lower piece-part price.



Surface Finish and Post-Processing Options

Protolabs offers a variety of CNC machining surface finishing options to meet your part requirements. More advanced coating and plating options are also available. 

CNC Milled part that has undergone bead blasting

Surface Finish Options: 

  • Edges broken with tool marks visible
  • Edges broken with light bead blasting
  • Sharp edges (tool marks visible)
CNC Milled part that has yellow colored chromate plating

Coating and Plating Options: 

  • Anodizing 
  • Chromate coating
  • Powder coating

 

Learn more about post-processing options for CNC machining.


Tolerances for CNC Machining

We offer a wide range of tolerances for CNC machined parts to fit your project priorities.

  Tolerances Lead Times
Automated Factory +/- 0.005 in. 1-3 days
Traditional Factory +/-0.002 in. 4-15 days
Network +/-0.001 in. 5-20+ days

 

Not sure which of our manufacturing options best fits your needs? No matter what stage you’re at with your project—from initial iteration to production—we’ve got you covered.

Let us help you find the right solution for your next machining project.

  Tolerances Lead Times
Automated Factory +/- 0.13mm 1-3 days
Traditional Factory +/- 0.0508mm 4-15 days
Network +/- 0.020mm 5-20+ days

 

Not sure which of our manufacturing options best fits your needs? No matter what stage you’re at with your project—from initial iteration to production—we’ve got you covered.

Let us help you find the right solution for your next machining project.


CNC Machining FAQs


How much does CNC machining cost?
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Prices start around $65, but vary based on complexity, quantity, and lead time. The best way to find out is to submit a 3D CAD model and get an interactive quote with design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback. Because we use proprietary software and automated fixturing processes, there are no up front non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs. This makes purchasing quantities as low as 1 to 200 parts cost effective. Prices compared to 3D printing are comparable to somewhat higher, but machining offers improved material properties and surfaces. 

What types of threading options are available?
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We offer UNF, UNC, and metric threads for machining along with coil and key inserts (but do not supply or install the inserts). These are available on both milled or turned CNC parts. 

See our complete threading options. 

What is the maximum part size for CNC machining?
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Maximum part size will vary based on your selected material. Our largest part size offered is 22 in. x 14 in. x 3.75 in. (559mm x 356mm x 95.25mm) and is available in Aluminum 6061 and 7075. 

See maximum dimensions by material. 

Where can I learn more about CNC design?
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We have a variety of resources on CNC machining and how to design parts for the process. Here are some of our favorites: