Which machining process is typically used for creating cylindrical shapes?

The process that is typically used for creating cylindrical shapes is turning. Turning is a machining process where a cutting tool moves in a linear path while the workpiece rotates around its axis, allowing for the effective removal of material to shape it into a cylinder or other rotational forms.

This process is especially beneficial for producing parts with precise diameters and smooth surfaces, which are essential in many engineering applications. The ability to control parameters such as speed, feed rate, and depth of cut makes turning a highly efficient method for achieving the desired dimensions and finishes on cylindrical components.

Other machining processes like milling, drilling, and grinding serve different purposes. Milling is primarily used for flat surfaces and complex shapes rather than for cylindrical forms. Drilling is focused on creating holes rather than shaping the outer profile of materials. Grinding is generally used as a finishing process to achieve high precision and smooth surfaces, but it does not inherently shape materials into cylindrical forms like turning does.