---
title: The Case For Adding CNC Controls to a Manual Machine
description: Adding a CNC Controller to your manual machine can greatly enhance your productivity and capability. They are simple to use and still leave you machine available to operate manually.
image: https://www.southernfabsales.com/hubfs/%284945%29%20Sharp%20LMV-42%20Vertical%20Knee%20Mill%20-%20Pic%205.jpg
---
[813-444-4555](tel:8134444555)
[ ](https://www.southernfabsales.com/) [** ](https://www.southernfabsales.com/blog/the-case-for-adding-cnc-controls-to-a-manual-machine#cos-search)
Posted By: Andy Kamashian | Posted On: December 27, 2023
# The Case For Adding CNC Controls to a Manual Machine
The Case For Adding CNC Controls to a Manual Machine
3:24
Manual Toolroom & Engine Lathes ,
Manual Milling Machinery
Are you tired of spending countless hours manually operating your mill or lathe, only to end up with mediocre results? It might be time to consider adding CNC controls to your manual machines. With conversion kits available from reputable manufacturers like Acu-Rite, Centroid, Machmotion, Trak, and others, you can revolutionize your machining process while still keeping the fully manual autonomy of your machine.
Not only will these conversion kits boost productivity and efficiency, but they will also unlock a whole new level of capability for your machines. Imagine being able to execute complex operations with precision and accuracy, all at the push of a button. Operations like bolt hole circles, pocket milling, contour turning and so much more can be done easily with just a few inputs from the operator. CNC controls can turn your manual mill or lathe into a powerhouse of versatility.
But when is the right time to make the leap? Well, the answer depends on your specific needs and goals. If you find yourself frequently encountering repetitive tasks or struggling with intricate designs, then CNC controls can be a huge benefit. These kits allow you to automate repetitive processes, saving you time and effort while ensuring consistent results.
## Small Lot Production
If your used to making small part lots adding a CNC Controller to your machine can easily up the game while still allowing for manual operation. Short runs can be easily loaded and unloaded on manual machines while the CNC control takes over for the actual cutting operations making the operation quick, simple and efficient.
## Save Time On Your CNC's
Many jobs are simple enough that they don't require multiple tool changes, complex machining operations or offline CNC programming. These jobs are ideal for a retrofitted manual machine and they free up full CNC Machines to take on the complex and higher paying work.
Additionally, CNC controls open up a world of possibilities when it comes to complex machining operations. With their advanced features and capabilities, you can tackle intricate designs, create intricate contours, and even produce parts with tight tolerances that were once deemed impossible with manual machining alone.
## Small Steps to CNC
Some shops have still to take the steps to full CNC and that's where these simple to use CNC controllers can help. Adding CNC controls to your manual mill or lathe can not only future-proof your business, they can greatly enhance your capability and productivity. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for remaining competitive. By investing in CNC conversion kits, you can adapt to changing market demands and take advantage of the latest advancements in the industry.
The decision to add CNC controls to your manual mill or lathe is not one to be taken lightly. However, the benefits they bring in terms of productivity, capability, and adaptability make it a worthwhile investment. So, why not take your machining process to the next level and unlock the true potential of your machines? You can shop for CNC KNee Mills and Lathes here on our site or explore the conversion kits offered by reputable manufacturers and embark on a journey towards enhanced precision and efficiency on machinery you already own.
[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2215571/325a0d8a-806c-4baf-b6c1-6c9bf8257bc3)
Andy Kamashian
Andy has extensive experience in Machining as well as Metal Fabricating. Gaining his knowledge through years dedicated to Tool & Die Making, Machining and Metal Fabrication with hands-on applications at companies such as: Kamashian Engineering, US Navy/DOD, Boeing, Charmilles, AGIE and Calypso Waterjet Systems. Andy is able to share this experience to assist you in your machining and fabrication equipment and application needs.
## Related Articles
### [ 3 Reasons You Need Manual Machinery Now Posted On: May 4, 2020 Due to the perverse proliferation of technology in industrial machinery, fabrication shops and companies have found themselves at crossroads, deciding whether ... Continue Reading **](https://www.southernfabsales.com/blog/3-reasons-you-need-manual-machines)
### [ Why a Manual Mill, Lathe & Surface Grinder Should Be in Every Shop Posted On: September 2, 2019 Every Machine and Fabrication Shop should have a Manual Mill Lathe & Grinder in their arsenal of available machine tools. A shop owner never knows when ... Continue Reading **](https://www.southernfabsales.com/blog/why-every-shop-needs-manual-machines)
### [ Common Types of Milling Machines and When to Use Each Posted On: February 15, 2021 With the right equipment, your shop could be 10 times more productive and efficient. With so many different types of equipment out there it can be hard to ... Continue Reading **](https://www.southernfabsales.com/blog/types-of-milling-machines)
[](https://bama-fl.org/)
[](http://www.amea.org/)
[](http://sme.org/)
[](http://www.mdna.org/)
[](https://www.bbb.org/west-florida/business-reviews/machinery-used/southern-fabricating-machinery-sales-in-lithia-fl-90210503)
## Main Menu
## Machinery
**
Southern Fabricating Machinery Sales, Inc.**
10417 South County Road 39
Lithia, FL 33547
P: 813.444.4555
F: 813.333.0450
© 2026 Southern Fabricating Machinery Sales, Inc. All Rights Reserved. | [Privacy Policy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5M_s-Wl6aeGcXAwU1M1UzcxV3M/view)
