Medical and aerospace industries both depend heavily on CNC machining, but each demands different materials, tolerances, and part functions.
This breakdown compares the most commonly machined parts in each sector—based on form, function, and finish requirements.
CNC Machining for Medical Applications
Medical parts must be biocompatible, sterile, and dimensionally exact.
Most parts are custom or low-volume, requiring consistent repeatability and flawless finishes.
Typical CNC-machined medical components:
| Part Name | Purpose | Material Used | Tolerance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orthopedic Implants | Replace bones and joints | Titanium, PEEK | ±0.001–0.005 mm |
| Surgical Tools | Clamp, cut, or manipulate tissue | Stainless Steel | ±0.01 mm |
| Dental Abutments | Support prosthetic teeth | Titanium | ±0.005 mm |
| Spinal Implants | Stabilize the vertebral column | PEEK, Titanium | ±0.002 mm |
| Device Enclosures | House diagnostic electronics | Aluminum, Polycarbonate | ±0.05 mm |
Key operations: Precision turning, small-diameter boring, and contour milling—often using advanced CNC turning services for round components like implants and dental tools.
CNC Machining for Aerospace Applications
Aerospace components must withstand high stress, vibration, and extreme temperatures.
Parts are usually machined in medium-to-high volumes with rigorous quality control.
Common CNC-machined aerospace parts:
| Part Name | Function | Material Used | Tolerance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turbine Blades | Manage airflow inside engines | Inconel, Titanium | ±0.002 mm |
| Wing Ribs/Brackets | Provide structural reinforcement | Aluminum, Titanium | ±0.01 mm |
| Engine Casings | Align and encase engine systems | Stainless Steel, Alloys | ±0.005 mm |
| Sensor Mounts | Hold electronic components | Aluminum, Composites | ±0.01 mm |
| Avionics Housings | Protect navigation/control electronics | Magnesium, Aluminum | ±0.01 mm |
Key operations: 5-axis milling, deep-hole drilling, and tight-tolerance CNC turning for rotational parts like couplings and engine shafts.
Material Requirements by Industry
| Industry | Metals Commonly Used | Plastics/Composites Used |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Titanium, Stainless Steel | PEEK, PTFE, Polycarbonate |
| Aerospace | Inconel, Titanium, Aluminum | CFRP, High-temp epoxy resins |
Material selection affects tool wear, surface finish quality, and thermal expansion control in both sectors.
Summary: Key Differences in CNC Usage
| Attribute | Medical CNC Parts | Aerospace CNC Parts |
|---|---|---|
| Production Volume | Low to medium | Medium to high |
| Tolerance Requirements | Micron-level for implants/tools | Sub-10 micron for structural fit |
| Surface Finish | Polished, burr-free, sterile | Stress-resistant, corrosion-protected |
| Regulatory Compliance | ISO 13485, FDA | AS9100, NADCAP |
| Machining Focus | Precision turning, fine drilling | Multi-axis milling, high-speed cutting |
