CNC machining is essential for manufacturing key components in electric vehicles (EVs). Here are some of the main ways CNC machining is used in EV production:

 

Reducing EV Weight

• Body panels are made from innovative dies, manufactured by powerful 5-axis machining centers to reduce weight[1][2].
• Internal components are pocketed using multi-axis machining to reduce overall mass[2].
• Lightweight aerospace materials are used for many EV parts, which are difficult to machine using traditional processes. CAM software with detailed simulations is needed to safely machine these materials[2].

 

Machining EV Battery Packs

• The battery pack is made up of battery cells within modules, which must be precisely machined. Parts like rotary shafts, linear ball bushings, and configurable plates can only be made with extremely precise CNC machining[1][2].
• Batteries need tight seals to protect from vibration, extreme temperatures, and moisture. The seals must perform even better than ICE vehicles because electric motors operate at greater speeds and temperatures[2].

 

Meeting Tight Tolerances for EV Components

• Even though EVs perform at high speeds and temperatures, consumers expect less maintenance. With fewer components in an electric motor, each part must be flawlessly manufactured to meet this expectation[1][2].
• Parts require perfect surface finishes with little deburring needed. Any pocketing must not alter the part strength, so each stepover and stepdown must be accurate to thousandths of an inch[1][2].

 

Machining EV Motors and Other Components

• While there is less machining needed for engine and transmission components, there is still high demand for machined parts like motor housings, precision shafts, and bearings[4].
• Tight tolerances are even more critical for quiet EVs. Machined components need to be more precise to eliminate rattles and squeaks[4].

 

Citations:

[1] https://robersontool.com/cnc-machining-for-the-automotive-industry-in-the-electric-vehicle-era/

[2] https://cimquest-inc.com/electric-vehicles-and-cnc-machining-what-you-need-to-know/

[3] https://www.alljack.com/business-units/custom-automotive/?lang=zh-hant

[4] https://www.ellisontechnologies.com/industries/automotive

[5] https://kingsburyuk.com/how-will-the-electric-vehicle-revolution-change-machining-requirements-for-oems-and-suppliers-in-the-automotive-industry/