IB Design Technology Topic A4.1.7: Subtractive Techniques Key Definitions

Abrading is a process of wearing away a material’s surface by rubbing it with another material, often to smooth, shape, or clean it.

Cutting is the removal of material by applying force that shears or fractures the workpiece.

Grinding is a machining process that uses abrasive wheels to achieve precise dimensions and smooth surface finishes.

Machining is the process of manufacturing components by using machines to cut, shape, or finish materials.

Milling is a machining process that uses rotary cutters to remove material, allowing for the creation of complex shapes and surfaces.

Sanding is a process that smooths surfaces using abrasive paper or belts to remove small amounts of material.

Subtractive manufacturing uses techniques that shape components by removing material from a solid block.

Turning is a machining process where a workpiece is rotated while a stationary cutting tool removes material to shape it. It is commonly used in woodworking and metalworking to produce cylindrical forms.