Cutting - what is it and how does it work?

Cutting is an important method when shaping metal, such as sheet metal or aluminium.

At Stans & Press, the method is used as a complement to other methods, to create details where strength, space and accuracy are crucial.

In this guide we go through what metal cutting is, what methods we use at Stans & Press, and how the method can be combined with other sheet metal processing.

What is machining?

In simple terms, cutting, as the name suggests, is an umbrella term for all methods of shaping material by cutting it away.

Most modern cutting machining methods today are performed with CNC machines. At Stans & Press we have two machines. HAAS VF-2 and HAAS VF-6, which you can read more about under the heading Manufacturing and processing at Stans Press.

At Stans & Press, machining is mainly about processing details by milling and threading:

Milling is a machining method in which a rotating cutting tool or cutter removes material from a workpiece. Depending on the design of the cutter and how it is used, we can produce different types of surfaces and shapes.

Threading is a form of machining used to create threads, i.e. helical grooves, on the top surface of a material. Threads are used to join different components together, for example by creating a bolted joint.

Common methods in metal cutting

Some other common methods in machining are:

Turning
Used for machining cylindrical parts. The workpiece rotates while the tool moulds the surface.
Milling
Here the tool rotates instead of the workpiece. The method is used to create flat surfaces, grooves, holes and more complex shapes.
Drilling
A method of creating holes with high precision, often as part of a larger machining process.

The choice of method always depends on the material, tolerance requirements and the design of the part.

Cutting operations in combination with sheet metal working

Cutting and sheet metal working complement each other and are used in different stages depending on the form and function requirements of the part.

Sheet metal working - such as punching, laser cutting, bending and shearing - are commonly used to quickly shape the base. These methods are cost-effective, especially for larger batches, and are well suited to creating complex shapes directly from sheet metal.

Machining is then used as a complementary step when higher precision or specific functions are required. For example, this could be to:

Fine-tuning dimensions and tolerances
Processing contact surfaces
Create precise holes or threads
Customising details for assembly

At Stans & Press we always work with complete solutions. Do not hesitate to contact us if you are unsure whether machining combined with sheet metal working is the right method for your business.

Manufacturing and processing at Stans Press

In our machine park, we offer two different multi-operation machines for machining.

Our newest addition is a Haas VF-6, used in a variety of industries, such as toolmaking, automotive, aerospace, and medical. A Haas VF-6 can perform milling, tapping, drilling, and specialised machining, among other operations.

In addition to CNC machining, we also offer welding, surface treatment and press braking, so that we can manufacture customised sheet metal products to your specific needs.

Not sure if machining is the right choice for you and your business? Then we can help you navigate the options. At Stans & Press, we are always open to new solutions. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions or need advice from a reliable and flexible supplier!