Stainless steel CNC machining operations remove material from a workpiece based on computerized work instructions. Part features such as holes, surface finishes, cutouts, angles, or bevels are created with high precision and minimal variation between parts.
Stainless steel is widely used in applications like aerospace parts, medical devices, and industrial machinery because it resists corrosion, withstands stress well, and has a long lifespan. But stainless steel can be difficult to fabricate, so it is often machined with CNC milling, drilling, cutting, and other processes. Learn more about the uses of stainless steel and Accudyne’s custom stainless steel CNC machining services.
Industrial Applications for Stainless Steel Components
Stainless steel is the material of choice for many applications, such as:
Medical and Surgical Equipment
Stainless steel is used for tools, implants, and device housings because it is biocompatible and can resist cleaning and sterilization without corroding.
Aerospace and Defense Systems
Structural brackets, turbine parts, and fasteners are machined from stainless steel to handle high stress and resist corrosion.
Automotive and Heavy Equipment
Engine parts, suspension components, and exhaust systems use machinable grades like 303 and 416 to maintain accuracy under load.
Food Processing and Marine Environments
Stainless steel fittings, tanks, and marine fixtures are made from 304 and 316 to withstand wet and salty environments.
Custom Design Stainless Steel Parts
Accudyne has the engineering and manufacturing know-how to bring custom parts to life. We specialize in machining stainless steel for a wide variety of applications.
Machined To Your Requirements
Custom stainless steel components begin as CAD models and technical drawings for your design. These renderings are translated into CAM work instructions, which guide CNC tooling to perform various operations such as milling, drilling, tapping, and cutting. This process is suitable for both prototypes and mid-volume production runs.
A Large Selection of Stainless Steel Grades
We regularly stock and work with a range of stainless alloys, including:
- 303 for easy machining.
- 304 / 304L for general corrosion resistance.
- 316 / 316L for marine and chemical environments.
- 17‑4 PH / 15‑5 for high strength.
- 416, 420, 440C for wear resistance.
- 2205 Duplex for strength and resistance to stress corrosion.
Dimensional Accuracy and Finishing
CNC machining is incredibly precise and can hold tight tolerances throughout the manufacturing process, which ensures good dimensional accuracy in each component. We also follow careful inspection steps to verify dimensions and tolerances.
We offer several high-quality finishing options including polishing, bead blasting, passivation, and heat treatment, to meet the final product’s requirements.
Stainless Steel CNC Machining by Accudyne
Our Englewood, CO facility is equipped with expert staff, advanced machining technology, and a commitment to quality that sets us apart from the competition.
Challenges and Solutions in Stainless Steel Machining
Stainless steel machining is a method manufacturers often turn to as an alternative to fabrication. This is because stainless steel often presents challenges such as work hardening, poor thermal conductivity for welding, and gum formation. These can lead to tool wear, fabrication errors, heat-related distortion, and rough finishes.
These are addressed with CNC machining processes because they use carbide or ceramic tools, chip-breaking feeds, coolant systems, and slower speeds to reduce heat and wear. Pre-machining steps, such as annealing, can also soften the stock where needed.
Equipment and Capabilities
Accudyne uses advanced CNC equipment to produce complex geometries with tight tolerances. We offer prototyping services and can accommodate small- to medium-volume production runs.
Our capabilities include vertical and horizontal milling as well as turning at several machining centers that are integrated with our design software. Our multi-tool, multi-axis machines can perform multiple operations in sequence, which shortens cycle times, and limits the amount of handling that parts require.
Inspection and Quality Assurance
Finished parts are checked to meet customer specifications and industry quality standards. Typical inspection equipment includes:
- Micrometers for measuring features and dimensions.
- Optical comparators for visual assessment.
- Height gauges for precision.
- Visual inspection and comparison with CAD files.
Partner With Accudyne for Reliable Stainless CNC Machining
Accudyne’s stainless steel CNC machining services consistently deliver high-quality parts for aerospace, medical, industrial, and food-related applications. Our team of engineers and machinists have the expertise and skill to support stainless steel CNC machining with tight tolerances, a range of finishing options, and efficiency.
Request a quote to discuss your next stainless steel project!