
What Is CNC Machining?
CNC machining services use a subtractive manufacturing method. This means that material gets removed during the production process. The CNC machining process can produces parts directly from a CAD file. This high level of automation makes the process suitable for a one-off part to high volume production from a wide range of materials including, metals, plastics, wood, glass, foam and composites.
Core CNC Machining Processes & Methods:
- 3-Axis Machining: Allows the tool to move in three linear axes relative to a fixed workpiece.
- 5-Axis Machining: Adds two degrees of freedom to either a CNC milling or CNC turning machine.
- CNC Turning: The component is spun at high speed and a cutting tool shaves away material.
- Gear Cutting: Gear shaping is normally used for cutting external and internal gears.
- Sliding Head: Great for high volume, small parts made from steel or platic bar.
- CNC Grinding: Removing small amounts of materials via a high-speed abrasive wheel.
- Electro Discharge: Creates a specific shape using electrical discharges (sparks).

Drag and drop your PDF or CAD drawings below to start your CNC machining project.
Qimtek has a network of 250 UK-based subcontract manufacturers, some of whom specialise in various CNC machining processes. So, if you are looking for someone to speak to about your machined components, then we can put you in direct contact with quality machine shops today. How does it work?
Latest Machining Projects
Here are a few of the latest CNC machining projects. Click here to see a full list.
Are you a UK-based machine shop and looking for new clients?
Become a Supplier Member today to start to receive live machining opportunities from the industry buyers who are placing live projects onto our platform, who are inviting you to contact them directly to discuss manufacturing options, pricing and lead times. Below are some of the latest CNC machining projects. Feel free to request the drawings and we will call you to show you around the system before having to commit to anything.