The term "cycle time" refers to the time it takes for a machine to complete one cycle. The cycle time is important because it determines how many parts will be produced in any given period of time
The cycle time can also be used as a benchmark for quality control, because if you are not producing parts fast enough, there will be a lag in your production process
To understand how CNC milling works, imagine that you could refine your machining process, increase throughput, reduce setup time, and eliminate manual touch to create parts like a CNC mill. A single rotation of the spindle on a lathe produces only one part whereas a full revolution of the X-Y-Z axis on a CNC mill creates multiple parts. This is due in large part to cycle time. Cycle Time is an important factor for small batch production as well as large volume production.
difference between cnc turning and cnc milling