Dictionary
Surface qualityDictionary
EnglishShort definitionSurface roughness measures the unevenness and texture of a surface at the smallest level. It is mainly measured by the height differences on the surface and is given in micrometers (µm). The mechanical properties strongly depend on the surface roughness as it influences friction, wear and functionality. Therefore, choosing the right surface roughness is also important for manufacturing processes such as CNC machining. The roughness is often improved by various finishing processes such as grinding and polishing.

Dictionary
Surface qualityThe surface quality includes all properties and the quality of a component's surface. For example, roughness, waviness and density are taken into account. The surface quality can be measured using methods such as stylus devices and optical methods and specified in micrometers (µm). The higher the surface quality, the smoother and more uniform the surface. The surface quality is primarily determined when high demands are placed on the functionality of the surface or on optical components.
Dictionary
Cutting toolThe cutting tool is a special type of tool that is required for cutting, dividing or machining a workpiece. It is particularly needed in various CNC processes such as turning, milling or drilling. Cutting tools are usually made of hard materials such as steel or diamond to improve precision and tool life. This is particularly important when the workpieces themselves are made of hard materials. The choice of the right cutting tool depends on various factors, such as the material hardness, surface quality or type of machining.
Dictionary
MachinabilityMachinability describes the suitability of a material to be machined using CNC production processes such as turning, milling or drilling. Many mechanical properties, such as hardness, toughness or thermal conductivity, influence the machinability of a material. The higher the machinability of a material, the easier it is to machine, which in turn has a positive effect on wear and production costs. Machinability is therefore one of the most important parameters in the production of workpieces and components.
Dictionary
WorkpieceIn manufacturing, a workpiece refers to the basic blank or starting material that is shaped using various machining processes such as turning, milling or grinding. It forms the basis for the manufacture of an end product and can comprise metal, plastic or other materials. Workpieces are manufactured precisely according to technical drawings and specifications in order to achieve the desired dimensions and properties. The quality and accuracy of the workpiece is crucial for the functionality and durability of the finished product. In industry, the efficient machining of workpieces enables high production quality and contributes to the optimization of manufacturing processes.
Dictionary
BlankA blank is a semi-finished product that is created after the primary machining process and serves as the starting material for further production. In industrial production, the blank forms the basis for various downstream processing steps such as machining, shaping or surface treatment. Blanks can come in different shapes and materials, for example as metal ingots, plastic granules or blocks of wood, depending on the desired end product. The quality and precision of the blank are crucial for the efficiency and accuracy of the subsequent production steps, as they form the basis for the dimensional accuracy and technical properties of the finished product. By using standardized blanks, production processes can be optimized and costs reduced, thereby increasing competitiveness in the manufacturing industry.
Dictionary
Feed rateThe feed rate is the speed at which a component is moved along the machining axis during CNC machining such as turning, milling or drilling. The feed rate is usually measured in millimetres per minute (mm/min) or millimetres per revolution (mm/rev). Adapting the feed rate to the material is crucial to ensure high quality machining and optimum machine service life. As a rule, the harder the material, the lower the feed rate, as otherwise there will be high wear and poor surface quality.
© assemblean 2026 | All rights reserved.