According to IMARC Group, the Indian CNC grinding machines market size was valued at USD 0.17 billion in 2024. By 2033, it’ll grow up to USD 0.24 billion with a CAGR of 3.74%.
CNC machining leads the modern innovation of manufacturing precision-engineered equipment all over the world. India is one of the best exporters of CNC machines that deliver high-quality products at a lower price in the global market.
Are you a mechanical engineering student or a startup founder who wants to know more about CNC machining and the role it plays in the Indian manufacturing industry? Here we’ll explore everything about CNC machining to keep you updated to stay ahead of your competitors.
Table of Contents
What is CNC machining?
CNC machining is a form of automated subtractive manufacturing or digital sculpting that helps to manufacture super-precision components (0.01). It carves the block of raw material guided by a digital code and using high-speed tools
Here’s the simplest way to understand it:
- CNC = Computer + Machine Tool + Code
- The G-code tells the tool exactly where to move, how fast, and how deep.
- Result? You get consistent results across thousands of parts without manual support.
Quick fact: CNC machines can produce parts with tolerances as tight as 0.001 mm (the width of a strand of hair). That is why it is used to create aerospace and medical components.
How Does CNC Machining Work?
Are you curious to learn how CNC machining works? CNC machining follows these five steps to turn an idea into a precision part.
- CAD Design: Engineers design a 2D/3D model using software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD.
- CAM Processing: CAM software translates the design into a digital instruction for the machine.
- G-code Generation: CNC machines understand G-code that tells the machine when to move, cut, drill, and stop.
- Machining: The machine uses this code to remove material from metal, plastic, etc., using milling, turning, or drilling.
- Quality Check: Tools like CMM or visual tools are used to make sure they meet the quality and specs.
Example: A startup designing EV motor components in Bangalore uses CAD to design a stator housing, runs the CAM file through a 5-axis CNC, and receives high-precision aluminum parts ready for assembly within 72 hours.
Types of CNC Machines and Their Use Cases
CNC machining is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and not all elements can be manufactured the same way. The table below shows the different types of CNC machines and what they are commonly used for. Take a look at them to understand more about CNC machines.
| Machine Type | What It Does | Ideal For |
| CNC Milling | Cuts material using rotating tools on 3 or 5 axes | Engine parts, molds, enclosures |
| CNC Turning | Spins the material while cutting tools shape it | Shafts, rings, connectors |
| CNC Drilling | Creates precise holes using drill bits | Circuit boards, custom hardware |
| CNC EDM | Uses electrical discharge to cut hard metals | Dies, medical parts |
| CNC Plasma/Laser | Uses high-energy beams to cut material | Sheet metal fabrication, signage |
Materials Used in CNC Machining
CNC machining can be done using various materials. But if you’re looking for cost-effectiveness, durability, finish, lead time, and machinability, you must choose the right material.
Common Materials:
- Metals: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Brass, Copper
- Plastics: ABS, Nylon, Delrin, PEEK
- High-Performance Alloys: Inconel, Titanium
Tip: Need corrosion resistance and low weight? Go with aluminum. Need high heat tolerance? Consider Inconel.
| Material | Speed | Cost | Common Use |
| Aluminum | Fast | Medium | Housings, frames |
| Steel | Medium | High | Gears, tools |
| ABS Plastic | Fast | Low | Prototypes |
| Titanium | Slow | Very High | Aerospace, medical implants |
Note: Approach the best CNC machining services in India for selecting the right material depending on weight, strength, resistance, and budget.
Applications of CNC Machining in Modern Industry
CNC machining plays a huge part in our daily lives. From satellites to smartphones, CNC machining powers industries where errors can become life-threatening:
- Aerospace: Engine components, brackets, actuators (used by ISRO suppliers)
- Automotive: Transmission parts, turbochargers (used by Tata Motors vendors)
- Medical: Implants, surgical tools, lab equipment
- Consumer Electronics: Phone frames, camera housings
- Renewable Energy: Wind turbine shafts, battery enclosure
CNC Machining Trends in 2025
Sustainable thinking and the use of AI have influenced the way we manufacture machines for aerospace, marine, defense, and medical equipment. So, we can see a lot of improvements in how CNC machines operate in 2025.
- AI + IoT Integration:
CNCs now auto-adjust speeds and detect tool wear in real-time.
- CNC-as-a-Service:
Pay-per-part billing reduces capital costs for startups.
- Eco-Machining:
Using water-based coolants and solar energy cuts emissions
CNC Machining vs. Traditional Machining
Is CNC machining better than manual machining? The answer is yes and no. The table below compares both types of machines to help you understand each distinctly.
| Feature | CNC Machining | Traditional Machining |
| Accuracy | Extremely high (±0.001 mm) | Dependent on operator |
| Speed | Fast & consistent | Slower & variable |
| Labor | Low (1 operator for multiple machines) | High manual effort |
| Complexity | Easy to make complex shapes | Limited |
| Cost in Bulk | Lower per part | Higher per part |
CNC is more reliable, scalable, and future-proof. But, manual machining is the best for very low volume production or simple components.
Benefits of CNC Machining
Why do so many engineers, designers, and manufacturers rely on CNC? Let’s find out why they’ve become a popular choice for manufacturing precision parts, especially in India.
- Repeatability: Get identical results across 1000+ parts
- Speed to Market: Fast turnaround from design to prototype
- Design Flexibility: Manufacture parts with complex shapes and fine details
- Material Efficiency: A sustainable option that produces less waste
- Scalability: Easy to move from prototype to full-scale production
CNC Machining in India: Scope & Providers
The CNC machining industry in India is growing rapidly, influenced by the government initiatives of PLI, Make in India, etc. So Indian manufacturers can design and export CNC components at a lower price compared to other providers.
- Skilled Workforce: Expert CAD/CAM technicians and international standards
- Competitive Pricing: Save up to 40% compared to US/EU vendors
- Advanced Facilities: ISO 9001 and AS9100 certified factories with real-time tracking
Where it’s happening:
- Bangalore: Known for aerospace and defense components
- Pune: EV and automotive manufacturing hub
- Coimbatore: Stronghold for pumps, textile machinery
- Ahmedabad: Heavy-duty fabrication
CNC Machining: The Modern Manufacturing
CNC machining has become the go-to choice for designing, prototyping, and manufacturing precision parts needed for various industries.
In India, the government supports CNC machining to increase the growth of the economy by encouraging local manufacturing with financial support. This has made Indian manufacturers the most preferred CNC vendor in the world.
Are you someone who is looking to create perfect equipment for your industry, or looking to reduce long-term costs? Then Venttup is here for you.
Venttup Ventures is the best CNC machining service in India that provides eco-friendly and affordable solutions for CNC. We are a sustainability-focused company that empowers companies with durable and precision-engineered parts at affordable prices.
Need a reliable CNC partner in India? Venttup Ventures is ready to bring your vision to life with fast turnaround and end-to-end support.
Get in touch today, and let’s build something incredible together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CNC machining used for?
It produces critical components for industries like aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and electronics.
What are the disadvantages of CNC machining?
CNC machining is less effective for soft or oversized materials and will be costly for low-volume production.
How accurate is CNC machining?
The CNC machines can create components of ±0.001 mm, depending on material, design, and setup.
How do I choose the right CNC machine?
Understand what you need, including the material, design, volume, and tolerance. 5-axis milling is better for manufacturing complex parts.
What is the cost of CNC machining in India?
The cost will vary based on the complexity and the size of the batch you produce. You can significantly reduce the price if you buy in bulk.
