Stainless Steel Turning

Trace-A-Matic specializes in machining stainless steel parts and assemblies using cutting-edge CNC lathes, 5-axis machining centers, and high-speed cutting tools. Years of experience provide expert knowledge of cutting a wide range of stainless steel alloys, their characteristics, and how this material group reacts when machined. Tool selection, depth of cuts, lathe speed and feed, chip control, and high-pressure coolant are critical in controlling heat generation, which can cause part movement and tool deflection during the machining process. This skill level ensures world-class precision machining that meets or exceeds the most demanding tolerances. The innovative Trace-A-Matic team is always available to review your machining parts and guide you during the design process. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction, providing AS 9100/ISO 9001:2015 certified quality turning of stainless steel resulting in timely turnaround and on-time delivery.

Stainless Steel Turning
Stainless Steel Characteristics:
  • High strength to weight ratio
  • Excellent corrosion resistance - austenitic and duplex grade
  • Ferritic stainless steels contain chromium with low carbon content
  • Austenitic stainless steel adds nickel and represents 70% of production - 304 and 316 stainless being the most common
  • Martensitic holds a high carbon content and is heat treatable
  • Duplex grade adds molybdenum to a combined ferritic and austenitic construction
  • Precipitation hardened stainless combines austenitic and martensitic grade qualities and is heat treatable

Stainless steel turning is a precision machining process that involves rotating a stainless steel workpiece while a cutting tool removes material to shape it into the desired form. Surface speeds play a crucial role in this process, determining the rate at which the cutting tool interacts with the workpiece. Careful consideration of surface speeds is essential for optimal machining efficiency while preventing overheating and premature tool wear. Stainless steel, known for its excellent corrosion resistance and durability, tends to work harden during machining due to its high strength and toughness. This work-hardening phenomenon can increase the cutting forces and decrease tool life if not managed properly. Achieving the desired surface finish is another critical aspect of stainless steel turning, as it directly impacts the final quality and functionality of the machined components. Techniques such as adjusting cutting parameters, employing appropriate tool geometries, and utilizing coolant systems help attain the desired surface finish, ensuring the production of high-quality stainless steel components for various applications.

Material Types: castings, forgings, fabricated weldments, and bar stock

Other Metal Turning: aluminum, brass, copper, stainless steel, steel, and titanium

Contact Trace-A-Matic today about our CNC machining services or request a quote for your next project!