CNC machine tools are the backbone of the precision engineering and manufacturing sector and come in a wide range of sizes, speeds, and shapes. These indispensable machines on your shop floor are used for a wide range of tasks, including mold and die and the production of intricate medical, automobile, and aircraft parts, to name just a few.

They can help significantly boost your machining processes' efficiency and, ultimately, the quality of your parts by being outfitted with varying degrees of software and automation.

Selecting CNC machines is a serious financial commitment. However, the overall benefits that can be expected in terms of improved productivity, profitability, and increased product quality are well worth the investment.

How to Select CNC Machine

Factory Requirements

The type of CNC machine required depends heavily on the nature of the work being undertaken. If parts are simple then a 3-axis milling machine or CNC lathe may be good enough. However, as complexity increases, it becomes more cost-effective to have equipment that can machine most parts in one setup. Five-axis CNC machines are best suited to this type of work. Other classes of products require specialized CNC machines.

Machine Cost

Cost is often the most important consideration when selecting CNC machines. CNC machines are generally significantly more expensive than manual machines. In addition to this, the cost of CNCs varies significantly depending on a number of factors. These factors can include the cost of tooling, cooling systems, chip conveyors, bar feeders, and automatic tool changers. Make sure that only the required add-ons are purchased.

Part difficulty and complexity

One of the greatest challenges in CNC machining is the complexity and precision of the parts to be produced.Parts for automotive, defense, aerospace or medical industries may require advanced CNC machines, where various spindles are selectable, capable of maneuvering, cutting, boring and shaping parts controlled through multiple axis.

CNC machine tools are big investments. However, they can definitely be worth your investments so long you take the right steps in choosing them the right way.