# CNC Machined Manifolds

> A CNC manifold combines ports and internal flow paths into one leak-controlled block, reducing hoses and separate fittings. The critical work is not only drilling: port standards, intersection burrs, sealing-face finish, cleaning and the requested pressure or leak test must be defined before quoting.

- HTML page: https://fabvector.com/custom-cnc-parts/cnc-machined-manifolds (Portuguese: https://fabvector.com/pt/custom-cnc-parts/cnc-machined-manifolds)
- Quote: https://fabvector.com/quote

## Typical applications

- Hydraulic valve blocks
- Pneumatic distribution manifolds
- Liquid-cooling distribution blocks
- Laboratory and process-fluid manifolds

## Recommended manufacturing route

1. Review the circuit, port standard and plug strategy before toolpath planning.
2. Machine datum faces and external interfaces, then drill intersecting passages.
3. Remove intersection burrs using an agreed mechanical or thermal method.
4. Clean, inspect and perform pressure or leak testing when included in the RFQ.

## Drawing and RFQ controls

| Control | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Port definition | Call out thread or cartridge-cavity standard, size, depth and sealing method. |
| Channel intersections | Provide access for deburring and identify passages that cannot retain loose chips. |
| Minimum wall | Check wall thickness between passages at maximum material condition and operating pressure. |
| Test condition | State medium, test pressure, dwell time, allowable leakage and plugged-port condition. |

## Recommended materials

- [aluminum-6061](https://fabvector.com/md/materials/aluminum-6061): Lightweight, machinable and widely used for pneumatic and moderate-pressure blocks.
- [stainless-steel-316l](https://fabvector.com/md/materials/stainless-steel-316l): Corrosion resistance for aggressive, clean or hygienic fluids.
- [brass-c360](https://fabvector.com/md/materials/brass-c360): Good machinability for compact fittings and instrument-fluid hardware.
- [pom-delrin](https://fabvector.com/md/materials/pom-delrin): Low-mass manifolds for compatible low-pressure media.

## Manufacturing processes

- [cnc-milling](https://fabvector.com/md/services/cnc-milling)
- [5-axis-machining](https://fabvector.com/md/services/5-axis-machining)
- [production-machining](https://fabvector.com/md/services/production-machining)

## Compatible finishes

- [anodizing-type-ii](https://fabvector.com/md/finishes/anodizing-type-ii)
- [hardcoat-anodizing-type-iii](https://fabvector.com/md/finishes/hardcoat-anodizing-type-iii)
- [passivation](https://fabvector.com/md/finishes/passivation)
- [electroless-nickel-plating](https://fabvector.com/md/finishes/electroless-nickel-plating)

## Inspection scope to define before production

- CMM inspection of port and mounting locations
- Borescope or validated cleaning check for internal passages when required
- Pressure, decay or bubble leak test to the RFQ acceptance criteria

## Buyer questions, answered

### Can internal manifold passages be fully deburred?

They can be controlled when intersections are accessible and the deburring method is agreed before production. Blind intersections may require a geometry change or a validated special process.

### Is leak testing automatically included?

No. State the test medium, pressure, dwell time and acceptance threshold in the RFQ. These details affect fixtures, plugs, cleaning and price.

### Can standard hydraulic cartridge cavities be machined?

Yes when the exact cavity standard and revision are supplied. A generic valve name is not enough because spotfaces, pilot diameters and thread details vary.

### Which drawing data prevents manifold quote delays?

Include a port schedule, section views of every passage, plug requirements, material, finish, cleanliness level, operating pressure, test condition and critical inspection points.

## Related engineering guides

- [Cold-plate channel and leak-control guide](https://fabvector.com/blog/liquid-cooling-cold-plate-cnc-machining)
- [Hydraulics and pneumatics capabilities](https://fabvector.com/industries/hydraulics-pneumatics)