CNC Turning
CNC Lathe: CNC lathes rotate the workpiece around a stationary cutting tool. These machines can also machine holes, threads, broaches, and slots.

What is CNC Turning?
CNC turning is a subtractive manufacturing process that rotates a metal rod while a cutting tool is held against the stock to remove material and create final parts. Our CNC lathes are also equipped with live tooling that can machine flat features and holes into the workpiece. Outside diameter (OD) and inside diameter (ID) threading is also available.
Turned parts can then be left as-machined, with visible tool marks, or bead blasted. When the run is complete, parts are inspected, boxed and shipped shortly thereafter.
Strict Quality Control
Whether you choose us for CNC milling or turning services, we can provide you with quality services that exceed your expectations. As an ISO 9001 and AS9100 quality certified company, we always adhere to the highest quality standards in the CNC machining industry. We implement the most stringent quality control procedures in every aspect of our operations to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

Advanced Technology
Our commitment to excellence goes beyond this. We continue to invest in new equipment and resources to stay at the forefront of emerging technologies that are shaping the industry. Our CNC precision machining department uses advanced CAD/CAM software. With custom CNC lathes integrated with CAD/CAM systems, we are able to download custom drawing files from companies around the world. We utilize the latest technology and software to streamline the CNC machining process and deliver a superior end product.
Knowledge and Expertise
Pentek has the best CNC precision machining equipment and team members with excellent knowledge and experience to provide customers with the highest quality CNC machining services. With low unit prices, our customers can ensure production schedules while increasing the profitability of machining projects.
Collaborative Approach
Choosing us means working with a team that values your success as its own benchmark. We go the extra mile to exceed your project expectations and create a high-quality product for your application.
CNC Machining Industry Applications
CNC precision machining brings advantages to industries that rely on a large number of precision parts. With CNC machining systems, complex designs with precise tolerances and specifications can be transformed into precise machining instructions. CNC precision machining processes can handle large, heavy or complex parts without human intervention, enabling a manufacturing process that prioritizes safety from start to finish.
Pentek's Precision CNC Services
CNC machining processes are diverse and precise, providing superior, consistently reliable quality. These services help you fulfill orders for high-volume, complex parts with exceptional precision and efficiency. Astro Machine Works maintains a competitive edge by providing the finest CNC services using the latest computerized machine tools and other advanced technologies.
We can help you create high-quality products for your next CNC machining project with our cutting-edge CNC precision machined parts and advanced technologies. Contact us today to get started.

Design Guidelines for CNC Turning
Our basic guidelines for CNC turning include important design considerations to help improve part manufacturability, enhance cosmetic appearance, and reduce overall production time.
US | Metric | ||
Maximum Dimensions | Diameter | 3.95 in. | 100.33mm |
Length | 9 in. | 228.6mm | |
Minimum Dimensions | Diameter | 0.16 in. | 4.07mm |
Length | 0.05 in. | 1.27mm | |
Wall Thickness | 0.020 in. | 0.51mm | |
Angle | 30° | 30° | |
Tolerances | +/- 0.005 in. | +/- 0.13mm |
Additional Notes on CNC Turning Guidelines
- Small features may be allowed, but the diameter in any region should not be less than 0.030 in. (0.76mm).
- Sharp conical points are allowed; angles should be greater than 30 degrees. Walls thinner than 0.020 in. (0.5mm) typically do not survive the machining process.
Surface Finish Options for Turned Parts
Parts that are turned typically have a very smooth surface finish. The as-machined surface finish of the cylindrical areas will typically be much smoother using the lathe than the mill, so consider this when selecting the machining method for those parts that qualify for either method. Areas cut with live tooling, such as flats and slots, may have visible tools marks.
If desired, the metal parts can be lightly bead blasted leaving a fine matte finish. Hard metals like steel and stainless steel can also have edges broken (deburred) with a light bead blast to remove metal slivers, and sharp or rough areas.
Aluminum | Edges broken with visible toolmarks, edges broken with light bead blast, or sharp edges with visible toolmarks |
---|---|
All other metals | Edges broken with visible toolmarks or edges broken with light bead blast |
Material: Aluminum
Surface Finish: Broken Edge
Material: Aluminum
Surface Finish: Bead Blast
Material: Aluminum
Surface Finish: Sharp Edge
Anodizing and Chromate Plating Specifications
Anodize | Hard Anodize | Chromate |
---|---|---|
MIL-A-8625 Type II, Class 2 (Blk) MIL-A-8625 Type II, Class 1(Clr) | MIL-A-8625 Type III, Class 2 (Blk) | MIL-DTL-5541 Type II, Class 3 (Clr) |
Quick-turn Finishing
Here are the requirements to get parts in as fast as 4 days (1-day expedite + 3 days for plating):
- Aluminum 6061/6082 and 7075 material eligibility
- Threaded holes plugged
- No masking available
High-requirement Finishing
Have AS9100 and ITAR requirements? Try our domestic precision machining option. If you have more complex anodizing and plating requirements, work with our digital network of manufacturers. The network works well for components that require a specialized color or material option such as titanium or nickel.