The Benefits Of CNC Plastic Machining

If you are a product manufacturer you may want to consider CNC plastic machining, which whittles plastics down to a smaller shape. Though it may not be as cost effective up front, there are many benefits to consider as well.

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Cost

Even though whittling plastics can be more expensive than injection molding, it can sometimes be less costly to machine those parts instead of molding them. The reason for this is the molds can cost up to $200,000 and even more in some cases. That initial cost is quite a lot for one company to handle. While the molding process is less expensive, you will still need to pay for the molds, so if you only require a few parts, or even a moderately sized production run, machined parts could be a more cost-effective alternative in the long run.

Prototypes

Many times, businesses require a prototype for a new part they are hoping to use or have created. CNC plastic machining provides a faster turnaround of prototypes and can make it more affordable.

Quality Control

When searching for a company to help with machined parts, you may want to consider those that have their own machines because they will have more control over the production and quality. Some companies claim to provide the service and then subcontract it out to other companies. It is always better when it can be done in-house, which can mean fewer costs to you, less paperwork, higher quality and attention to detail.

Finishes

Many times, the parts you create require a smooth finish so they work well with the other parts. Machined parts can produce a smoother finish than other options, such as injection molds, so there are no rough surfaces. If you’ve already used an injection mold and have a rough part, you can also have it machined to remove the gates and smooth it out. In many cases, CNC plastic machining can also hold tighter tolerances than injection molding.

How To Decide

Machined parts aren’t the same as tooled parts, and many factors should be considered before making a decision. However, in most cases, the tooling cost will be more and can increase the price-per-part ratio, whereas CNC plastic machining can sometimes eliminate that cost so the parts are more affordable, and you can lower costs for consumers while still providing them with high-quality items.

CNC machining, or computer numerical control machining, is a manufacturing process that utilizes computer-aided machines to cut metal or other materials into intricate patterns and shapes. It offers many unique benefits that make it a valuable technology for a wide range of industries. 

Among the outstanding CNC machining benefits for machinists is that it allows them to re-shape and redesign existing parts without having to start from scratch. When they do create a part from scratch, they do so through CAD (computer-aided design) software which enables them to make very intricate designs with minimal wasted material. This method of machining can reduce waste and save money thanks to the computer’s capabilities and automation, instead of relying on human operators. Additional valuable differences make themselves plain depending on the application. In this article, we'll look at some of the top CNC machining benefits.

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1. CNC Machining Generates Minimal to No Waste

CNC machining is not only efficient, but it can also minimize material wastage thanks to its precision and accuracy. As long as the part is designed properly in the computer, the machine itself will almost never make faulty cuts, so there will be fewer damaged parts to discard. The machine can handle precise cuts and angles without generating much waste. 

2. CNC Machining Is More Accurate and Has No Defects

One of the major CNC machining benefits is accuracy. Because CNC machines receive precise instructions from a computer — and the movements are similarly carried out under computer control — their results will be identical each time and will match the computer model closely. This is a huge advantage when it comes to creating parts with tight tolerances. This capability almost entirely eliminates human error from the equation. 

3. CNC Machining Offers More Rapid and Effective Production

Another industry-cornering CNC machining benefit is the inherent speed and efficiency of production. CNC machines are capable of producing products much more quickly and efficiently than traditional methods. Many modern units can even load the billet and unload the completed product without human intervention. Naturally, this capability leads to significant cost savings and increased productivity. In addition, this sort of automation makes parts more consistent. 

4. CNC Machining Makes Assembly Faster

Products whose components are created under computer numerical control are simpler to assemble. Because CNC machining is so precise and consistent, companion parts will fit together exactly as they do on the computer. And since the process is quicker than manual machining, you’ll spend less time waiting for parts to be completed. Unless there is a problem in the computer model, all parts should fit together perfectly. This capability can save a lot of time and money in the assembly process, as there is no need for extensive fitting and adjustment.

5. CNC Machining Separates Machines From People And Reduces the Risk That Would Otherwise Arise

CNC machining removes significant safety risks from the shop floor. By automating the machining process, you can eliminate many of the hazards associated with manual machining. In addition, CNC machines are typically enclosed, which further reduces the risk of injury.

6. CNC Machining Uses Little Energy

CNC machining uses less electricity than older processes, thereby reducing energy consumption. In fact, according to the EPA, CNC machining uses about one-seventh of the energy of traditional machining methods. There are multiple reasons; CNC machines not only work quickly but draw less power per minute than most other manufacturing methods. 

7. CNC Machining Can Reduce Production Costs

CNC machining is an economical, efficient, and precise process of manufacturing parts and products. CNC machining also uses fewer raw materials in comparison to conventional machining. Focusing your shop around CNC technology will drastically reduce errors, production expenditures, and product costs.

Figure 1 is an example of a CNC machine:

What Is CNC Machining?

CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process used to create parts by removing material from a workpiece or workpiece stock. Preprogrammed software and codes are fed into the machine to control the movement of its equipment. CNC machining covers a wide range of machinery such as: turning mills, lathes, grinders, and plasma-cutting machines. Figure 1 is an example of a CNC machine:

The first CNC options on the market were for milling. CNC milling machines perform complicated operations on materials such as metal, glass, plastic, and wood. These machines have many different features and capabilities that allow them to create intricate shapes, cut out designs, and even engrave words onto products. Though very expensive in the s and ‘80s, today’s CNC machines are much cheaper and are becoming increasingly popular among hobbyists and professionals alike. 

What Is the Importance of CNC Machining?

CNC machining is critical in today’s industrial environment for its ability to produce accurate, repeatable, and affordable products. The method enables items that would be impossible or prohibitively expensive to fabricate using other manufacturing techniques. For example, CNC machining is one of the finest ways to guarantee perfectly constructed telecommunications equipment such as heat sinks, microwave tower parts, and amplifier housings. The method enables the precise design and manufacture of intricate mechanical parts while taking into consideration technical specifications, component dimensions, and geometry. 

How to Choose a Good CNC Machine

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a CNC machine for yourself. Here are some tips to consider:

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1. Project Goal: Consider the project's goal before anything else. A CNC router will probably be the best option if wood is your main material. A CNC plasma cutter is the finest choice if you aim to work on metals.
2. Cost: Bear the price in mind. Cost includes both labor and maintenance costs in addition to the machine’s price.
3. Machine Weight: Take into account the machine's weight. Cast iron construction is best if you’re tackling heavy-duty, difficult tasks. If not, alternative lighter-weight equipment will usually work.
4. Power: The power rating of the equipment is yet another crucial factor. This will influence your cost analysis and must also fall within the capabilities of your facility’s electrical system.