How CNC Machining Benefits the Manufacturing Industry
CNC machining or Computer Numeric Control machines have changed the face of the manufacturing industry thanks to the pre-programmed computer software dictating the movement of the factory tools and machinery and increasing overall efficiency. Companies who manufacture on a large scale can now get the quality and accuracy they want at a cost they can afford, not to mention the time-saving benefit.
CNC machining, first introduced in the 1940s and 1950s as ‘punched tape’ technology, has been a major breakthrough in the field of rapid-prototyping whereas before, parts had to be machined by hand which invariably led to larger margins of error, especially when used for large-scale manufacturing.
CNC Machining Benefits to Industry
Time Saver
The most obvious influence of CNC machining is the increase in manufacturing speed as there is no more need for manual intervention. Routine tasks can be fully automated while still providing safe and effective products as CNC machines can practically create any pattern while still performing the essential functions of proper manufacturing.
Because a CNC machine is a ‘learning’ automated tool that uses the X, Y and Z axes to make 3D movements and cut shapes into just about any material, it can use the full capabilities of a cutter, giving precise commands for where and when to cut, thus saving countless man-hours of measuring and labour.
Not only are the machines faster but they can now operate for much longer periods of time – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without the need for a break or any days off.
Affordable and Efficient
The whole process uses advanced technology to ensure that your business is getting the best value for money possible. With the right CNC machine, it’s like getting several machines for the price of one, as you don’t need to buy separate machinery such as drills and saws. Businesses can buy CNC mills, CNC lathes, CNC plasma cutters and electronic discharging machines – whatever suits your needs. In fact, there are very few industries that can’t use CNC machines to help improve the manufacturing processes.
Depending on the application, almost any material can be used in CNC machining. The most common materials include aluminium, copper, brass, steel and titanium, as well as fibreglass, wood, foam and some plastics such as polypropylene.
Companies are saving money on materials too as worker mistakes are a thing of the past, which also benefits customers, whom the saving is passed onto in the process.
We have a lot to thank CNC machining for and look forward to future developments in this technology that may even expand beyond manufacturing.
Steelmor is the leading supplier and manufacturer of stainless steel in South Africa and is dedicated to supplying cost effective quality products on time. Give us a call today for expert advice and top end products.
