7 Reasons Why CNC Machining Wins Over Conventional Machining

In recent years, CNC machining has steadily instead of the traditional machining industry. People can see this phenomenon as computers replacing human minds,  but not so that serious.

After all, the term ‘CNC’ refers to ‘Computer Numerical Control’. The technology was first introduced to reduce labor and make production processes faster and better. At the end of the day, both CNC machining and conventional machining are all for one goal — producing quality machined parts.

The major difference between these 2 ways is that one option requires manual labor while the other requests 90% automation.

Many major manufacturing companies choose CNC machining ways instead of conventional methods. Industries like healthcare, military, and aerospace need precision parts with tolerances as tight as +/- .0005, which is very difficult to achieve with conventional machining. Also, perfection isn’t the only thing CNC machining offers.

Below are some of the major reasons why CNC machining is welcome by more and more factories and people.

1. Reduced Labor Costs, one Experienced Machinist for Multiple Machines---CNC Machining

In the case of conventional machining, every machine needs a specialized technician with experience, skill, and extensive knowledge of the machine in hand. Oppositely, CNC machining is strictly controlled by a software program and requires very little human operation apart from the initial set up and data feeding. CNC machining also demands less advanced training, further reducing the labor costs. With computers playing a major role, the chances of human error and compromised workplace safety are also reduced by a high percentage.

2. Large Quantity and highest Quality---CNC Machining

Because it requires manual effort, conventional machining is mostly set for low volume, small-quantity projects. CNC machines, however, are built to provide maximum accuracy whether they are tasked to produce a few dozen metal machined parts or thousands of them.

Their high-quality material makes the resistance to wear and tear stronger, which is common with conventional machining. As a result, they can run 24 hours a day with timely and quick maintenance. Additionally, CNC machining uses advanced software, which can be updated regularly per specifications, to allow for the easy manufacture of super-complex parts.

CNC machines also come with automated cooling systems, reducing the chances of heat damage. Many advanced machine models come with built-in chip storage and a conveyor belt for chip management.

3. Effectiveness is 100x better---CNC Machining

Built to control exact speed and positioning, CNC machines can produce several thousands of 100% same parts in a record time, a great thing that is impossible to achieve with handheld or conventional machining. Machines can be programmed to apply the same cut or do the same finishing repeatedly without effect on the quality of the machined part. Conventional machining, on the other hand, requires a skilled operator to manually place the tool at every step of the machining process, which obviously would take a lot of time and patience. And even with such oepration, variations will also occur.

4. No Prototypes Required---CNC machining

Prototypes are needed to simulate designs and map their feasibility. Before CNC, every manufacturer would make actionable prototypes, test-run them, and then work on the machining process. When done manually, this whole process usually take several days or sometimes even months. The introduction of software programming in CNC machines wherein you could input your design and visually see if you could work with it under the actual situations. This means no extra expenses for prototype development, shorter production times, and a minimum labor cost.

5. The ability of Complex Parts Development---CNC Machining

CNC machines can be reprogrammed and updated at any time, giving them the liberty to produce 3D, 4D or even 5D parts with ease. This allows for a smoother shift between regular CNC machined part production and complex part production if required. Besides, the software can store designs, so you can revisit any desired shape or other design even faster.

6. Major points for Specifications---CNC Machining

CNC machining is designed to focus on precision, machines adamantly comply with the specifications provided by their operators. Throughout the whole production process, every step is visually tested to make sure the desired effect and dimensions.

7. Apply to Every Material Type---CNC Machining

This is probably the biggest advantage CNC machining has relative to conventional machining. CNC machines can apply to almost every type of material, including metal, steel, wood, foam, or sensitive plastics.

CNC Machining Adaptability

Delivering top-of-the-line accuracy, precision, and speed for product quantities both high and low, CNC machining presents a highly beneficial choice for manufacturers across a variety of industries.