Interesting facts about CNC machining

Interesting facts about CNC machining

The increase in the use of CNC Machining has left a lot of people wondering what it is about and how it came to be. This article highlights some interesting facts about CNC Machining you might not be aware of. These facts include:

CNC stands for computer numeric controlled and refers to any machine (i.e. mill, lathe, sheet metal brake) which uses a computer to electronically control the motion of one or more axes. The name originated in the 1950’s when the need was recognized for machines to be able to manufacture complex jet aircraft parts.

There are two basic ways to program CNC machines: a. Conversational programming. This is the simpler of the two methods. This is a macro programming language used to instruct the machine to perform pre-programmed cycles (i.e. facing, drilling holes in arrays, etc.). With this program, you just specify the essential parameters and the software does the rest for you. b. CAM programming. This is the more powerful of the two methods. Using this method, you import your part model into a CAM (computer aided manufacturing) program and define the parameters associated with each and every machined feature on the part. These parameters include tool diameter and length, depth of cut, tool path geometry among others.

The people trained in the area of precision machining rank among the top five most needed employees in the United States.

It can be used in various industries. The CNC has a wide array of uses and can be used in different industries ranging from jewelry, aerospace, automobiles among other.

Hopefully next time someone gets in a conversation about CNC machining around you, you an dazzle them with these interesting facts.

partZpro Frequently Asked Questions

The "Open-Book" Business Model

Q: Why is there a factory invoice in the box?
That is your Commercial Import Invoice. Because we ship Factory Direct to your door, international customs requires an invoice that travels with the package.
  • Transparency & Compliance: This invoice lists the origin factory (showing you exactly who made your parts) and declares the exact value you paid at checkout.
  • Why it matches your payment: We ensure the commercial invoice matches your transaction value so that Customs calculates your duties correctly and legally, preventing delays or penalties at the border.
Q: If I have the factory’s info, why shouldn't I just go direct next time?
You can, but our clients stick with us for the "US Shield." When you order through PartzPro, your money is held in a US-based Escrow until the parts are delivered and verified. If you go direct, you are sending money overseas with zero recourse. We handle the legal leverage, language barriers, and financial security to ensure the factory prioritizes your job over others.
Q: What exactly does your Service Fee cover?
Your fee covers Financial Security (Escrow), Vendor Vetting, AI Engineering Analysis, and Project Management. We act as your US-based legal firewall. We find the best factories, negotiate the rates, and hold the money until the job is done right.

Logistics, Customs & AI Technology

Q: Who handles the HTS Codes and Customs paperwork?
Our AI does the heavy lifting; you just confirm the release. We don't leave you guessing on complex government tariffs.
  • Heavy AI Analysis: Our proprietary AI Assistant performs a 40-point analysis of your part's geometry and material. It automatically searches the official US Government HTS database to generate a precise HTS Code Breakdown for your specific parts.
  • The Process: This data is provided to the carrier (DHL/FedEx/UPS). When the broker contacts you, the classification is already estimated—you simply confirm it to release the shipment.
Q: Who pays the duties?
You do—which saves you money. Because we ship DAP (Delivered at Place), you pay the exact duties owed to the government based on the AI-generated HTS code.
  • Why this is better: Competitors who offer "Free Shipping/DDP" often inflate the price to cover the worst-case tariff scenario. By paying the actual duties yourself, you ensure you are never overcharged for import taxes.
Q: How fast is shipping?
Since we skip the "Middleman Warehouse," our standard international shipping is extremely fast (typically 3–5 days transit). Your parts fly directly from the machine shop to your desk.

Quality Assurance & Liability

Q: Competitors inspect parts at a US warehouse before shipping. Why don't you?
Because "double handling" kills speed and adds unnecessary cost. We operate on a "Dock-to-Stock" model. The factory performs the rigorous QC, and parts ship directly to you.

We treat you like a professional: we know you will verify the fit and function of your parts upon arrival. By removing the redundant middleman inspection, we save you 30% on cost and 3–5 days on lead time.
Q: What happens if the parts arrive out of spec?
You are protected by the PartzPro Escrow Guarantee. Because we hold the funds, the factory does not get paid until you are satisfied. If parts are non-conforming, simply upload a photo and inspection report. We will either force an immediate priority remake at the factory’s expense or issue a refund. You stay in control.
Q: Does your AI just check for geometry errors?
No. Our AI Cost-Driver Audit goes beyond simple DFM (Design for Manufacturing). It helps you perform Value Engineering by highlighting features that are disproportionately expensive (e.g., deep pockets, tight radii, non-standard threads). We show you the cost drivers so you can engineer the price down before you order.

Payments & Corporate Orders

Q: We are a company, not a hobbyist. Can we pay via Purchase Order (PO)?
Yes. We specialize in serving agile engineering departments and mid-sized manufacturing firms.
  • How to order with a PO: You can select "Pay via PO / Wire" at checkout or email our sales team directly with your PO attached. We will verify your company details and send a payment link or wire instructions immediately so production isn't delayed.
Q: Do you offer Net-30 Terms?
We offer terms to qualified business partners after an initial credit review. Please contact our sales team to set up your corporate account. For new customers, we recommend using our PO-to-Wire workflow for the fastest start.

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