How Is CNC Machining Changing the Manufacturing Industry?

Whether your manufacturing company has been in the market for a while or you’re starting only now, learning about technologies to enhance business and production operations is key to a successful business future.

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Therefore, you probably have heard about CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining. This technology is not as recent as you may think. Interesting engineering fact, the oldest machined tool was found in Italy and dates back to 700 B.C.

Generally speaking, CNC machining is a pre-programmed manufacturing process based on the subtractive method. This technology forms objects by cutting material and developing a precise shape.

Although CNC machining has a long history, currently, it’s one of the most transformative technologies in the manufacturing sector. It’s digitized and thereby can perform more efficiently compared with additive or formative manufacturing methods. The technology is often used for prototyping and further production of custom machined parts.

Some manufacturing companies build their own CNC machines, yet many hire additional service providers to ensure smooth integration. One of such examples is Waykenrm. The company delivers rapid prototyping, including product prototyping, injection molding, rapid manufacturing, and automotive production.

CNC machining materials

CNC machining services such as Waykenrm use various materials for object production. Materials you choose, play a significant role in the designing process. You have to consider the material’s hardness, temperature and chemical resistance, and strength. The most common choices are metal and plastic.

Metal parts – regarding their resistance and strength, metal parts are the most popular manufacturing material. Metal is more versatile and durable than plastic and can be utilized from prototyping custom parts to crafting batch production. The most used metal is aluminum due to lightweight and durability. It also distinguishes with a better electrical and thermal conductivity than other metals.

Plastic parts – plastic can be an optimal choice for various production types. It has the advantage of lightweight, electrical insulation, and high resistance. Yet it’s mainly used for prototyping due to lower costs and because the element is not as sturdy. The most used plastics are ABS, polycarbonate, and nylon.

CNC machine types

Although CNC machines can vary, most industrially used are 3-axis and 5-axis CNC milling. CNC milling services often use the first type as it’s easier to navigate, and it costs less than the 5-axis.

3-axis CNC machining works by removing material from the main object using cutting tools at high speed. It’s a less flexible method used with CNC milling and turning techniques. With 3-axis, you can produce commonly used products and shapes without much expertise in the field. However, this type is not as precise as the 5-axis.

5-axis CNC milling parts differentiate as more precise and detail-oriented. This type doesn’t involve as much manual work and can produce parts that are different from the main axes. Yet these types of machines are more expensive.

Regardless of which type you are using for your manufacturing business, CNC machining is taking the industry by storm. The versatile and digitized nature of these machines brings producing to the next level.

CNC machining – the future of manufacturing

Modernization is the central part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, so it would be difficult to find at least one industry that hasn’t changed in the last decade. Manufacturing isn’t an exception, and one of the most significant shifts was CNC machining implementation. It made the production process more efficient and flexible, but that’s not all. Here are some changes that make CNC machining the future of manufacturing.

4 Ways CNC Machining is enhancing manufacturing

1. Convenience

CNC machines eliminate manual work, thereby saving time and making production processes more efficient. Automated performance is faster than human-led work. Digitized manufacturing also helps to reduce human error and can operate regardless of the day of the week.

Many employers face concerns from their teams that machines will replace them. You can relax because CNC machines won’t replace your team but will empower your workforce and make their work more enjoyable.

2. Prototype machining

Prototyping is essential in the manufacturing sector. It helps to avoid mistakes later on in the production process and to understand the product better. However, many businesses skip the prototyping part or don’t invest enough time in it because it’s time-consuming and expensive.

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CNC machining makes prototyping more affordable and easier to attain. Now, manufacturers can make mock-ups and have a better idea of the further steps in the process. The new technology navigates through manufacturing and allows developing more comprehensive designs

3. Sustainability

CNC machining drives sustainability in different ways. The technology doesn’t require much of additional materials and thereby doesn’t leave as much waste. It also has fewer chances of making mistakes, which saves from throwing materials and parts away and wasting precious production time.

On top of that, CNC machining doesn’t need many additional parts like separate drills or sanders, because it has everything incorporated in the main body.

4. Fewer processes

Computers and software are the main parts of monitoring a CNC machine. CAD model preprograms desired projects and uploads information directly to the device. Another benefit of such technology is that it can perform almost all producing steps by itself, eliminating the need for additional tools and machines, or manual work.

Implementing digitization is crucial to succeeding in today’s world. It does not only make your company stand out from competitors but also accelerates business operations and workforce performance. So, find what works for your company and bring manufacturing processes to the next level with CNC machining.

CNC machining is an efficient manufacturing process used in various industries. This process uses Computer Numerical Control, where the machine is programmed using computer software to manufacture the product precisely. Due to automation, lack of human error, and the ability of machines to run 24/7, there are many CNC machining benefits.

What is CNC Machining?

CNC machining is a manufacturing process that utilizes a programmed computer to create parts with precision. To begin, numerical software is uploaded into the machine, and the computerized controls and cutting tools remove material from the part that is being created. The part is either on a rotating table or is being moved around to allow the proper tools to cut into it. This manufacturing process is commonly used in critical industries, such as aerospace, industrial, medical, oil and gas, and more.

CNC Machining Benefits to Consider

High Precision Parts

CNC machined parts are created to fit tight tolerances and precise specifications. Since a machine is used to create these parts, human error is practically eliminated. While the machine operator is responsible for tool calibration and inspecting the tooling to ensure it is in good working order, the actual machining is done by a computer, allowing for more complex, precise products to be produced with fewer imperfections.

High-Volume Production and Scalability

Once the machine is programmed, production can begin and it doesn’t need to stop. Since little human interaction is needed, these machines can run for 24 hours, 7 days a week. This allows for high-volume production to take place, with large numbers of parts being created in a short period of time. Due to the flexibility of the machining schedule and the abilities of the machine, manufacturers can easily scale production up or down based on the needs of the client.

Efficiency

Since CNC machines can be run around the clock, production never has to stop. Additionally, operators can set the machines to their highest settings when necessary, allowing them to run rapidly. These characteristics improve the efficiency of your production and give you the ability to create as many products as possible in the shortest period of time.

Enhanced Capabilities Allow for the Production of Complex Parts

CNC machines have the ability to carry up to 30 tools at any given time to be used during the machining process. With access to so many tools and advanced computer software, CNC machines can easily create virtually any component you can think of.

There are also numerous CNC machining processes including milling, shearing, cutting, punching, and more. Depending on your product, your manufacturer will help you determine the best process for you.

Lower Production Costs

CNC machining is a cost-effective manufacturing process. Since the process is done through computers, there are minimal mistakes, preventing damaged products and mistakes from occurring. Additionally, the high-volume production capabilities without the need for constant human labor allow your products to be completed quickly and efficiently. These properties of CNC machining make it a low-cost process.

Experience the CNC Machining Benefits with Ensinger Precision Components

At Ensinger Precision Components, we can create the perfect CNC-machined plastic parts, components, or finished products for your business. We understand the tight tolerances required from the aerospace, defense, and oil and gas industries, and we understand that injection molding won’t always get the job done. With our CNC machining services, we can easily create high-quality plastic products with tight tolerances.

In addition to our CNC machining processes, we offer injection molding, design and engineering services, mold and tooling transfer services, and more. No matter what your plastic fabrication needs entail, we have the capabilities to create durable plastic products for your applications.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of cnc machining parts manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.