Dennis is a hard-working business professional who enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He likes to stay active, and loves playing sports. Stephanie is always looking for new challenges and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC machining is a type of manufacturing process that uses pre-programmed computer software to accurately direct the movement of factory machinery and tools. Since it’s computer-based, it can be used to control several complicated machineries, ranging from lathes to mills.
With conventional manual processes, three-dimensional cutting tasks can take several days to complete, accompanied by three or more experts. But with CNC machining, it can be completed in three to four prompts.
This method surely surpasses manual control by leaps and bounds, because live operators aren’t needed to control the commands of machine tools through buttons, wheels, and levers. But for every advantage, there is a disadvantage.
This article will consider the advantages and disadvantages of CNC machining. Ready?
Pros and Cons of CNC Machining
Pros
1. It can be used continuously
The beautiful thing about CNC machining is that these machines can run for as long as you want them to. It can be for 24 hours, 1 week, or even a month depending on how much work you have to complete.
It only needs to be shut down for maintenance and/or repair.
2. It requires less staff for operation
CNC machining is very cost-effective over time, contrary to popular opinion. Yes, it may be capital intensive at the initial stage, but it saves money in the long run because there are fewer staff workers to pay and fewer needs to attend to. Money spent on maintenance will reduce as well
3. The machines are very consistent
In manual operations, the results were not consistent due to fluctuations in human strength and industrial operations. But with CNC machining, the results are consistent.
They produce similar pieces of the same objects with accurate measurements, thus allowing your business to produce the same quality over time.
4. Management staff are less and better organized
This is closely related to less staff needed for operation. Everyone knows that too many cooks spoil the soup. The more managers or experts there are, the more difficult it is for decisions to be made.
One person can handle a series of pre-programmed operations and ensure it works perfectly, rather than having a warehouse full of workers that will manufacture flawed products at the end of the day.
5. No degree required
Anyone can be trained in CNC machining. You don’t need a university or college degree or undergo a series of training. Good knowledge of computer operations and the right software are all you need.
Cons
1. Unemployment
There is no doubt that technology has chopped off a huge portion of our workload. There is a massive increase in the global population, but artificial intelligence and machine learning have created more effective systems of doing work, thus rendering many people unemployed.
2. The cost of CNC machining is quite high
As mentioned earlier, the cost of CNC machining at the initial stages is quite high. If you’re just starting out as a manufacturer, the chances of getting these machines is quite slim. It’s suggested that you work with manual tools whilst saving to get the machines.
Verdict
So why CNC Machining has some drawbacks, the pros are definitely more than the cons. You should definitely consider it for your factory.
