What are the Benefits of CNC Machining?

In modern manufacturing, CNC machining plays a huge role in the advancement of this industry. But many of us have questions about what CNC machining is and how it can benefit your business more than anything else. You may be wondering how it plays an important role in the manufacturing industry and what is required of CNC machinists. If you would like to know more about CNC machining and how it can benefit your business, read on. In this blog, we will discuss the many ways that CNC machining is a vital part of manufacturing.

What is CNC?

So what exactly is CNC? CNC stands for Computerised Numerical Control. It is a computerised manufacturing process where pre-programmed software and code control the movement of production equipment. CNC machining can be used to control various different machineries such as turning mills, grinders and lathes. These are all used to cut, shape and create different parts and prototypes. CNC machining combines a huge range of elements to ensure the machines run smoothly. They combine mechanical design, technical drawings, mathematics and computer programming skills to create metal fabrications. For example, they can create a part for a plane or car out of a sheet of metal.

What does a CNC machine do?

CNC machines are controlled by computers that run a sequence of pre-programmed controlled commands. Originally, machines were controlled by hand wheels or levers or mechanically operated by cams alone. However, CNC machines now understand and function using CNC machining language, called G-code. This tells them precise measurements for production such as feed rate, speed, location and coordination. These machines are highly automated compared to the dangerous factory machines that we used to use. Computer-aided design (CAD) software is used to define the parts’ mechanical dimensions which are then translated into manufacturing directives by CAM software. In order to operate this high-level machinery, you need experienced CNC machinists and programmers.

The Benefits of using CNC machining

So now you know how CNC machining works, what are the benefits of using this complex machinery?

CNC machining uses very little waste

One of the biggest advantages of CNC machining is that it produces little to no waste. CNC machines run on software programs that undergo iterative optimisation and develop the best way to turn a component without waste. Simulations are also used to check codes and their efficacy before the program is put into action. This means that the final CAD-CAM model will start producing results from the get-go rather than having to go through a series of trial and error. CNC helps make best use of the raw materials because all precision milling machines operate on repeartable software programs that operate fixed tools along fixed routes. This enables a manufacturer to significantly cut down on waste, not just making them more sustainable, but also saving money.

Improved accuracy and no defects

CNC machining takes out the chance for human error. They operate autonomously and don’t require any manual intervention. Human errors in the manufacturing process can lead to defects which can cost time and money. CNC machines ensure greater accuracy with codes and software programs that manage the entire process, from start to finish. You can also benefit from these inputs staying the same for the entire production process unless they are changed deliberately. This helps ensure consistency among the products while also allowing the machines to run for long periods of time without any breaks and avoiding compromise on the quality of the products.

Faster and efficient production

Another advantage of CNC machining is that they can be operated on much faster settings to meet increased demands. The machines are able to run for long periods of time without tiring, without breaks and with no trade-offs. You can run CNC machines 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This significantly increases the amount of products you are able to produce in a much shorter time frame. Because the machines are also much more accurate, there’s no waste of materials and you don’t have to worry about defects holding back your quota. These machines are the best way to produce products quickly and efficiently without any cost liability.

Quicker assembly

CNC machines can help aid manual assembly when it is necessary. For example, by decoupling the production capacity from the number of employees required, manufacturing units can be made more efficient by moving the human resources down the assembly line. Manual assembly lines are necessary in high-production settings, often when the product is intricate to the point where it needs specialised skills that machines cannot offer. As well as this, the high-precision turning of components enables the seamless fitting of parts, this allows the assembly line to flow smoothly with no interruptions.

Enhanced safety

By using CNC machines you will significantly improve the safety of your production. This is because CNC machines are separated from humans and therefore reduce any risk that may crop up. Because you don’t need a member of staff to actually operate the machine, there is less risk of accidents and less chance of limb or life being lost. You can even change the design and run it without needing a person to even come into contact with the machine. You only need workers to supervise the machines, not operate them, which they can do remotely. So if there are any preventative or reactive maintenance required, they can do this from afar and avoid any potential injury.

Reduction in energy consumption

CNC machining can help with sustainability measures for many industries such as natural gas, petrochemicals, aerospace and automotive. This is because these industries are very energy-intensive due to the high levels of loss involved. By introducing CNC machines, you can enable them to be more scalable and precise without taking limited resources like energy and labour any more than what is necessary. They can also help cut down on energy losses that may occur due to poor or improper planning, helping you to save even more energy.

Lower production costs

Overall, CNC machining offers you lower production costs which is something many of us are seeking in order to make the most profit. This is because of many of the above benefits that we have already mentioned such as reducing energy consumption, faster production and improved accuracy. This means you can produce more products at a lower cost while producing less waste and in a shorter amount of time. Operational costs are kept to a minimum and you avoid any financial liability that may occur through accidents and incidents. CNC will hugely improve your production quality while helping you create a safer and more efficient working environment.

For CNC Grinding and Metal Fabrication Choose Panda Engineering

At Panda Engineering, we provide a huge variety of high-quality ‘in-house’ subcontract CNC milling and machining services. Whether you need one-offs or high-volume batch work, we offer only the very best machined parts and CNC components in an array of materials. We offer only the very best CNC milling, grinding and fabrication services to help you receive the finest quality products.

We are experts in our field, ensuring we provide only the very best CNC machining for your business. We aim to be the very best in the field, which is why clients choose us again and again. Whatever your needs and requirements, we work hard to ensure each customer receives high-quality CNC parts and services. To learn more about what we can offer you, give us a call on 01274 744887. We also provide metal fabrication and engineering support services including coating, platings, blastings, anodising and eroding. Get in touch with our friendly team today, a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

4 Oct 2022