Hubs is now Protolabs Network. Find out more

Get instant quote

Design for CNC machining

CNC (computer numerically controlled) machining is a robust and high-precision process for manufacturing custom parts. Optimizing the way you design parts can help you get more out CNC's range of milling and turning solutions. This section provides design guidance for reducing costs, speeding up machining times and ensuring parts get produced to your specifications. Learn how to design parts to get the most out of CNC.


What is GD&T? How to reduce manufacturing errors and improve quality
What is Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and how is it used? This article explores the basics of how and when to use GD&T to get the best results out of custom part manufacturing.
Read morearrow_forward
What is anodizing and how does it work?
What is anodizing? Anodizing is key to finishing parts made from aluminum and other metals. Learn how anodizing works and why it is an important part of CNC machining and manufacturing.
Read morearrow_forward
How do you deal with sharp corners in CNC machining? Designing with the machinist in mind
Have you designed your parts with sharp corners? They may look good on paper, but they're a nightmare to manufacture with CNC machining. In this article, learn how and why to avoid sharp corners in your designs. It'll reduce lead times, cost and potential headaches for machinists.
Read morearrow_forward
Selecting the right CNC material
How do you select the right materials for CNC machining?
This comprehensive guide compares the 25 most common materials used in CNC machining and helps you choose the right one for your application.
Read morearrow_forward
What is design for manufacturability (DFM)?
Design for manufacturing (DFM) means taking a design-first approach to manufacturing. In this article, we look at the overall DFM process, the necessary steps for a successful outcome, examples of DFM done right and how to get the most out of your own processes.
Read morearrow_forward
Standard Blank Sizes for CNC machining (Sheets & Rods)
Standard blank sizes for CNC machining (sheets & rods)
Tables of the standard blank sizes (sheets & rods) commonly used in CNC machining.
Read morearrow_forward
Heat treatments for CNC machined parts
What is heat treatment and how does it improve CNC-machined parts?
What are the different types of heat treatment and how do they affect CNC-machined parts? This article explores how heat treatments can be applied to many metal alloys to drastically improve key physical properties like hardness, strength and machinability.
Read morearrow_forward
How to prepare a technical drawing for CNC machining
How to prepare a technical drawing for CNC machining
How do you prepare technical drawings for CNC machining and why are they important? Technical drawings are widely used in manufacturing to improve the communication of technical requirements between the designer and engineer and the manufacturer.
Read morearrow_forward
How to design parts for CNC machining
How to design parts for CNC machining
In this complete guide to designing for CNC machining, we've compiled basic & advanced design practices and tips to help you achieve the best results for your custom parts.
Read morearrow_forward
cnc-surface finish-as-machined-1
What are the different types of threads for manufacturing? Practical tips for engineers
What are the different types of threads for manufacturing? In this article, learn how to correctly design threads to reduce lead times and cost for your next CNC machining production run.
Read morearrow_forward
Minimizing the cost of CNC parts (13 proven design tips)
14 proven design tips to reduce the cost of CNC machining
Make the most of CNC machining by optimizing your design and making the right material choices. Read these 14 design tips to help you reduce CNC-machining costs and create the perfect parts for your project.
Read morearrow_forward

Ready to transform your CAD file into a custom part? Upload your designs for a free, instant quote.

Get an instant quote