Machining uses cutting tools to selectively remove material from a metal workpiece. The appropriate machining process depends on factors such as part geometry, size, material, tolerances, and production requirements.

Milling uses rotating cutting tools to remove material from a stationary workpiece. It is commonly used to create flat surfaces, contours, pockets, slots, holes, and complex geometries.

Turning rotates the workpiece against a cutting tool and is commonly used to produce cylindrical components and features.

Drilling uses a rotating cutting tool to create round holes in a workpiece.

Swiss machining is a specialized form of CNC turning in which bar stock passes through a guide bushing that supports the workpiece close to the cutting tool. This reduces deflection and makes the process particularly well suited for small, slender, and complex precision parts. Swiss machines can combine turning with milling, drilling, and other operations to produce multiple features in a single setup.

Micro machining uses precision machining techniques to produce very small components or microscopic features. Specialized tooling and process control are used to achieve the dimensional accuracy and surface quality required at extremely small scales.

Other specialized machining methods include Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM), Electrochemical Machining (ECM), boring, broaching, reaming, and grinding.