Machines are the most important equipment for serial or piece production in any industry. Traditional machines from the last century usually require the participation of an operator in most cases. However, the progress never stops and today we have more modern solution – so called CNC machines which are being installed in factories across-the-board.
What kind of equipment is this, and what advantages do theseCNC machines have over semi-automatic or manual analogs?
Differences between CNC machines
The main difference of modern CNC machines is the presence of a digital “brain” that independently controls the production process as well as cutter or other tool connected to the spindle. During the production process, the machine is guided by the loaded program and does not require operator control.
A CNC machine, when operated by an experienced operator, can increase production speed, expand the range of products produced, and even improve business profitability.
Advantages of CNC machines
The efficiency of any production depends on a complex of factors. For example, it depends on the potential volume of production or its cost, the number of specialists employed in production and the cost of equipment maintenance.
Of course, everything depends on the individual characteristics of a particular business, but in most cases, CNC machines turn out to be the optimal solution.
1. The production speed of CNC machines is much higher than that of manual machines. Modern equipment performs many operations automatically, without stopping the spindle rotation and without making preliminary measurements, which ultimately increases the speed of production of each part or workpiece.
2. Precision production is another potential benefit of the technology. Even an experienced manual machine operator cannot completely eliminate the possibility of defects or inaccuracies during the processing of products. Automated machines practically eliminate this possibility, since the processing process and the cutter are controlled by an algorithm.
3. The production profitability of CNC machines is also higher. An automated device uses cutters and other tools more efficiently, without making unnecessary manipulations, which means that the business owner will spend less on machine maintenance. Profitability also increases due to a reduction in the percentage of defects during the production process.
4. Saving on human resources is another important factor. One qualified operator can control the production process on several CNC machines at once. The equipment can operate without breaks and weekends 24 hours a day. Since the operator has virtually no contact with the products and the cutter, production safety increases.
Please note that the benefits of working with CNC machines directly depend on how well you choose the machine models and who operates them.
Is it worth buying a CNC machine?
Despite all these advantages, modern CNC machines are not suitable for all industries. Firstly, they are more expensive than conventional manual machines. Secondly, they require qualifications to set up and program the equipment.
If you are the owner of a small business or small-scale production, then purchasing a CNC machine may not be profitable for you. On the other hand, suppliers today offer a wide range of CNC machines, including low-cost and small-sized machines for any businesses.
