Blog > What Is CNC Drilling?

What Is CNC Drilling?

Computer numerical control (CNC) drilling is a great asset in the manufacturing industry. If you're considering using CNC drilling in your work, you'll want to know the basics before you begin. Here's some helpful information to get you started.

CNC drilling uses a rotating tool to cut round holes in a material. It's often used to create holes for screws or bolts for assembly but can also work for aesthetic or cosmetic designs. 

The first step in the process is to create a digital design of your drilled component using CAD software.
 
Once you complete your design, you need to convert it so that it's readable by the CNC unit. This often involves running your CAD design through CAM software to produce machine code. This code controls how the machine and tools will operate during the drilling work.
 
Following this, you need to load the code to the CNC machine and set it up by installing the proper drill bit and securing your workpiece. You're now ready to drill.
 
After you finish drilling, examine the workpiece for any errors or flaws.

CNC drilling offers numerous benefits when compared to traditional drilling methods, including:
 
• Greater accuracy: When you integrate a drilling machine with CNC technology, you can create holes that are incredibly accurate to your original design.
• More versatility: You can use CNC drilling on a range of materials, including metal, plastic and wood. CNC units can also create a variety of holes as they're able to hold multiple drill bits. 
• Greater ability to reproduce products: As a CNC drilling unit is controlled by computer software, it's less likely to run into errors, allowing you to mass-produce products consistently.
• Compatibility with other operations: Drilling is often used to modify routers or mills, and can function as part of a single unit alongside other processes used to shape materials.   

CNC drilling is most often used in metal fabrication. The automobile and aerospace industries in particular require drilling in solid metal for turning wheel hubs, gear blanks, custom shafts, and more. It's also used in wood manufacture, as it helps to shape wood for furniture and other products.
 
As computer parts require precise shaping, even at the smallest sizes, CNC drilling is very useful in manufacturing electronics. It also allows for mass-production of these products.
 
Similarly, the electrical industry benefits from CNC drilling, as does plastic manufacturing. Plastic products with detailed designs are often made with the help of a CNC drilling machine.

Need reliable CNC drilling at a great price? Choose On the Spot Steel Fabrication. We provide quality steel and aluminium products, CNC drilling, and structural steel supply and installation for our valued clients across the Sunshine Coast, throughout Australia and overseas. We're committed to delivering exceptional workmanship and great customer service. Call us today on 07 5437 0817 to arrange a free quote.