Manufacturers the world over use all kinds of machinery and equipment to manufacture their products. From automatic assembly to cam operated screw machines, automation is the key to producing parts better and cheaper. In the machining and fabrication world the choice is manual or CNC operated machinery. While manual machinery has its advantages in easy setup and quick to cut/form the first part, CNC definitely takes the advantages in production speed, repeatability and reduced cycle time. 

What is a CNC Machine?

When parts are being made like screws, hydraulic components etc they need to be made to a close tolerance and often that part needs to be made in the thousands or eve millions to meet up with production demands  Further when critical components such as a medical device, implant or aerospace component are needed they need to be made to a very exacting set of details that are traceable and in almost every way, perfect. A pre-programmed machine that will follow the exact pattern every time is a CNC. 

CNC Controls are used to control many complex types of machinery, from grinders and lathes to mills and routers. In fabricating machinery they are used to control the toolpaths of lasers, waterjets and plasma cutting machinery as  well as the gauging and forming capabilities of a press brake. They greatly enhance and advance the three-dimensional cutting/forming tasks that can be accomplished in a single set of prompts.

Benefits of CNC Machines

The benefits of using CNC machines over traditional methods continually grow as fast as technology advances. A few of the immediate benefits are: 

  • Consistency - One of the best and most beneficial aspects of CNC machines is that it eliminates human error. When a person has to manipulate the machines to make products, there is a greater risk of them not being the same. They are consistently repeatable and accurate with the same results each time. When every minor detail matters and you need to be sure, a CNC is the best option. 
  • Productivity - Once the CNC machine is programmed, you can leave it to do its work. It can perform a series of complex tasks, which means you cut manpower and increase productivity. Not only are they highly repeatable, they are easy to automate including self loading parts and even exchanging tooling. You can run the machines at any hour, as well, saving you from having to use manpower on multiple shifts. 
  • Cost-Effective - As these machines become more popular, they also become less expensive. They require less training to operate and fewer people to do so. They can be learned in a virtual setting and they also result in fewer mistakes. You can also buy the machines used and program them for your own needs, cutting the cost considerably against buying a new one. Also, parts are made almost instantly so they can be tested to see if they work before mass production.
  • Safety - Any concerns or problems with machine error are not of any danger to the operators. Because the operators are not directly driving the machine they are able to stay a safer distance away and behind protective barriers from the working zone of the CNC machine. Fewer people, if any, are required during the running of the equipment, so less chance of people making mistakes or getting injured. 
  • Versatility - You can easily and quickly reprogram these CNC machines to change products and items to be made. The versatility of the CNC machine helps in making it attractive for the small Job Shop or Prototype room.  

Best Uses of CNC Machines

Due to their versatility, CNC machines are widely used in manufacturing and that practice continues to grow. It can be used with almost any materials, including:

  • Aluminum
  • Brass
  • Copper
  • Steel
  • Titanium
  • Wood
  • Foam
  • Fiberglass
  • Plastics

From computer parts to furniture, and from laser cutting to hole punching, more and more industries are finding the benefits of using a pre-programmed machine to do the heavy lifting. Both metal and plastic parts in unlimited quantities can be manufactured. Popular with aerospace, defense, transportation, medical, industrial, and specialty markets, CNC machining is becoming one of the most popular methods of production.

New and Used CNC Machines

If you are just starting out or looking at ways to cut costs, a used CNC machine can save you a lot of money. We have very knowledgeable staff who will help you find the best solution for your company’s needs. We also have a large selection of CNC machines to choose from and if you don’t find what you need, we have a close network of partners who’s inventory we have immediate access to, all to help you out. 

Browse our inventory of new and used machines and call us today for more information. 

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