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Kristyna Burczyk

About Kristyna Burczyk

Posts by Kristyna Burczyk:

CNC Turning: A Complete Guide For Modern Manufacturing

CNC Turning: A Complete Guide For Modern Manufacturing

CNC Machining has become the backbone of precision manufacturing, powering industries that demand accuracy, reliability, and efficiency. Among its many specialized processes, CNC Turning stands out as one of the most versatile methods for producing high-quality cylindrical components. Whether you’re developing prototypes or scaling production, understanding how CNC Turning fits into the broader world of CNC Machining can help you choose the right process for your parts.

What is CNC Turning?

CNC Turning is a subtractive manufacturing process where bar stock rotates at high speed while a cutting tool removes material to create a specific shape. Unlike milling, where the cutting tool rotates, turning relies on the rotation of the piece itself.

During the CNC Turning process, the machine automatically adjusts spindle speed, tool position, and depth of cut, ensuring consistent, repeatable results. Common turning operations include:

  • Boring – enlarging existing holes
  • Facing – creating a smooth, flat surface
  • Knurling – adding textured patterns
  • Grooving – cutting narrow channels
  • Reaming – refining hole accuracy
  • Taper turning – shaping conical profiles

Because of its geometry-friendly nature, CNC Turning is ideal for parts that are round, tubular, or symmetrical, such as pins, shafts, bushings, screws, and fasteners.

CNC Milling vs. CNC Turning: How They Differ

Although CNC Turning is part of the broader CNC Machining family, it serves a very different purpose than CNC Milling. Understanding the distinction can help you select the right process for your project.

CNC Milling

  • The cutting tool rotates while the material stays stationary
  • Ideal for flat, angled, or irregular surfaces
  • Best for complex geometries, pockets, and multi-axis shapes

CNC Turning

  • The material rotates while the cutting tool removes material
  • Ideal for tubular or round parts
  • Best for smaller components that require tight tolerances

If your part is primarily cylindrical, CNC Turning is usually the more efficient and cost-effective CNC Machining method. 

Advantages of CNC Turning

CNC Turning offers several benefits that can make it a go-to solution for high-volume/high-precision manufacturing.

  • High accuracy and repeatability – Computer-controlled movements ensure consistent results across large production runs.
  • Fast cycle times – Turning machines can rapidly remove material, making them ideal for mass production.
  • Cost efficiency – Automation reduces manual labor, waste, and scrap.
  • Versatility – Capable of producing everything from simple pins to complex threaded components.

These advantages make CNC Turning a cornerstone of modern CNC Machining operations.

Swiss Turning: Precision at the Highest Level 

Swiss Turning, also known as Swiss-type machining is a specialized form of CNC Turning designed to produce extremely small, more delicate, or high-precision parts. 

What Makes Swiss Turning Different?

Traditional lathes hold the bar stock in a fixed position. Swiss machines, on the other hand, feed the material through a guide bushing, allowing the cutting tool to work extremely close to the support point. This significantly reduces deflection and enables:

  • Ultra-tight tolerances
  • Deep, narrow cuts
  • Thin-wall machining
  • Length-to-diameter ratios up to 20:1

Swiss Turning is commonly used for medical implants, electronic connectors, miniature shafts, and other micro-precision components.

Industries That Rely on CNC Turning

CNC Turning plays a crucial role across many industries, including:

  • Non-Flight Critical Aerospace – bushings, fasteners, precision pins
  • Automotive – shafts, pulleys, threaded components
  • Medical – implants, surgical instruments
  • Electronics – contact pins, housings, connectors
  • Telecommunications – inserts, sockets, micro-components

The ability to produce consistent, high-quality parts makes CNC Turning one of the most cost-effective CNC Machining processes available. 

CNC Machining Services at Small Parts Manufacturing

Small Parts Manufacturing maintains a full line of CNC Machining equipment, including CNC Turning, CNC Milling, and Swiss Turning machines, and can support industries that require precision, speed, and reliability. Our team has been delivering parts that meet strict tolerances and demanding performance requirements for over 80 years.

Give us a call today at 503-287-1181 (where a real person will answer) to discuss your project or request a quote. 

SMI Golf Tournament: A 50+ Year Industry Tradition

SMI Golf Tournament: A 50+ Year Industry Tradition

The History of the Screw Machine Invitational (SMI)

The roots of the SMI Golf Tournament trace back to 1969, when Warren Ulrich, the owner of Pacific Machinery and Tool Steel (PMTS) established an invitational event called the PMI (Pacific Machinery Invitational). This tournament was created to bring together professionals from the precision machining and screw machine industries, fostering collaboration, networking, and shared growth.

The Invitational quickly became an important annual gathering, strengthening relationships across the industry and setting the stage for future traditions.

The Founding of the SMI Tournament

Then, in 1970, Small Parts Manufacturing and other Pacific Northwest manufacturers launched the annual SMI golf tournament as a way to show appreciation to PMTS (Pacific Machinery and Tool Steel). The tournament was designed as a “thank you” event, reflecting the company’s commitment to partnership and community within the industry.

Over the years, the SMI Golf Tournament has grown into a highly anticipated event, continuing to honor its original purpose while expanding in scale and participation.

Highlights from the 54th Annual SMI Golf Tournament

On Friday, June 12, 2026, participants gathered at Elk Ridge Golf Course for the 54th Annual SMI Golf Tournament. The event featured a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start and a 4-man scramble format, encouraging teamwork and friendly competition.

Key highlights from the 2026 event included:

  • Updated gameplay format, including 2 drives per player every 9 holes
  • A strong turnout of teams competing for cash prizes totaling $1,200
  • Individual contests such as longest drives and closest-to-the-pin competitions
  • A BBQ lunch and awards celebration held in the banquet room after play

The tournament continues to evolve while maintaining the traditions that make it a standout event in the Pacific Northwest manufacturing community.

Sponsors Supporting the SMI Golf Tournament

The success of the tournament is made possible by the continued support of dedicated industry sponsors. The 2026 event was proudly supported by the following companies in appreciation of Pacific Machinery Tool and Steel:

These organizations play a vital role in sustaining the event and supporting the broader Pacific Northwest manufacturing network.

Why the Tournament Matters

The SMI Golf Tournament represents more than just a day of golf. It highlights the strength of relationships within the precision manufacturing industry and reinforces the importance of collaboration, appreciation, and long-term partnership.

By continuing a tradition that began over five decades ago, Small Parts Manufacturing demonstrates its ongoing commitment to the people and organizations that contribute to the industry’s success.

Looking Ahead to Future Tournaments

As the SMI Golf Tournament continues to grow, it remains anchored in its history and purpose. With each year, the event builds on a legacy that began with the PMI Invitational Tournament and continues to bring manufacturing professionals together in a meaningful way.

The future promises continued connection, competition, and celebration for the local manufacturing community.