Machining Steel The Size of a Human Hair

Why It Matters

The demo proves that modern linear-motor CNCs can reliably produce ultra-fine, high-aspect-ratio features needed in medical, robotics and aerospace parts, potentially enabling new product designs and tighter tolerances in micro-manufacturing. It also showcases tooling, tooling reach and process parameters that manufacturers can adopt to scale precision micromachining.

Summary

A Titans of CNC team used a Sodick linear motor machining center (LN4X) to mill steel features roughly the thickness of a human hair, demonstrating extreme high-speed micromachining capability—the machine can reach 40,000 RPM and nearly 800 inches per minute without ball screws to eliminate backlash. They ran a program on the Sodick control, cutting with an OSG Exoarb two-flute endmill (WXS coating, 625 in reach) in Knack 80 steel using 14,000 RPM, 31 ipm feed, 0.031" stepover and 0.002" stepdown. Inspection on a Mitutoyo comparator at 100x confirmed features about one thousandth of an inch thicker than a human hair, including distinct shapes (circle, triangle, square). The video highlights Sodick training and setup tips and invites viewers to contact Titans of CNC for more details or demos.

Original Description

For more information on Sodick Machine Tools:

https://titansofcnc.com/products/al-600p-ige-wire-edm

For more information on OSG tooling:

https://osgtool.com

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