Conventional milling provides a flexible workshop process for suitable one-off, low-volume and support work. A machinist controls table movement, feeds and tool engagement rather than executing a fully programmed CNC cycle.
Appropriate use
The process may be effective for straightforward features, modifications, tooling support and early development work. Components requiring repeated complex geometry or high positional consistency are assessed for CNC milling instead.
Controlled manufacture
Drawings, datums, measuring methods and inspection requirements remain applicable even where the machining method is manually controlled.