CNC machining revolutionized the manufacturing process worldwide. Computer engineers on the Air Force Research Project patented the first CNC machine in 1949.
Since then, the technologically evolved. Today’s CNC machines offer greater safety, uniformity, and production speed than manual alternatives—by a wide margin! Industrial economists estimate the average Fortune 500 company saves $4 million every year when it invests in automated machinery.
As an entrepreneur, it’s wise to consider CNC machines to improve your production. Yet, the machinery market is complex.
This guide aims to cut through the noise. Read on to learn about the best CNC machines and how they work in practice.
CNC Machining in the Manufacturing Industry (Overview)
You’ve already heard about the benefits of CNC machinery. These machines make different types of manufacturing safer and faster. And, they improve product quality.
But what is a CNC machine?
“CNC machine” is an abbreviation of “computer numerical control machine.” CNC machines are robotic manufacturing systems run by software. Most CNC machines shape materials through subtraction, by cutting or boring. This differs from additive material shaping—that is, layering materials to form a product as a 3D printer does.
Machine operators input directions into the software. The software then controls robotic components to perform 3D manufacturing tasks. Common CNC machine functions include:
- Cutting
- Lathing
- Routing
- Milling
- Shaping
- Assembling
- Engraving
When humans perform many of these tasks, they face safety risks. Thus, outsourcing the tasks to an automated machine increases safety as well as product quality.
Businesses implement CNC machining at different stages of the product development lifecycle. That said, most CNC machine applications improve the prototyping and mass production phases.
The Best CNC Machines: What Makes Them Great?
Like any other device, CNC machines vary in quality. If you’re an entrepreneur, you’ll want the CNC machines best suited to your manufacturing business. What qualities should you look for?
Function, Method
First, make sure the machine can execute the tasks you actually need to do. Then, do systematic comparison research to determine the best method to perform those functions. Key points of divergence among different machines are their different methods.
So, a plasma cutter uses gas compression and electrical arches to shape metal. In contrast, water jet cutters lacerate with pressurized water. Which cutting tool to choose depends on which resources are easier for you to access.
You’ll need a different machine to shape polymers than the one you use to cut steel. That said, multifunctional machines can be a great asset as you scale. You’ll have a wider range of materials to choose from as you develop new products.
Ease of Use
Then, consider how intuitive the machine is to use. A seamless user interface will reduce the onboarding time of even highly-trained professionals. It also reduces errors.
Material Traits
It’s also important to evaluate a CNC machine’s speed, strength, and durability. The machine’s materials and design can elevate or hamper these traits. Make sure the machine you choose is compatible with the software and product materials you’re already using.
Finally, the best CNC machines last a long time. Hobbyist-level machines will depreciate and even degrade in less than a decade. But, industrial machinery should last over forty years. Find a machine that can easily adapt to technological evolution.
Worth the Hype? Top-Tier CNC Machines in Practice
Think of the proverb “a craftsman is only as good as his tools.” Top-tier CNC machines are effective, practical tools.
As a business manager, though, remember that a tool is useless without a skilled craftsman. In practice, CNC machines are only worth the hype in the hands of a skilled operator.
A CNC machine’s success hinges on the programmer’s competence. The code must be precise. Successful programmers know how to tell a machine to turn a blueprint into a functional object.
Skilled machinists and operators are critical to effective machining. Machinists, also called “set-up operators,” load the program, choose and install tools, run tests and troubleshoot. Hire machinists practiced with the specific category of machine you use.
Tech Tips, Strategies, and More
Learning about the best CNC machines can elevate your business strategy. Take your industry knowledge to the next level with our guides and tips. Peruse our library for more must-have information.
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