Computerized Numerical Controlled (CNC) Machines are gaining popularity because of their accuracy (despite the increased speed), replicating designs down to the tiniest detail, reduction in the cost of human labor, etc.
There are different types of CNC machines ranging from CNC Plasma Cutting Machines, CNC Electrical Discharge Machine, CNC Laser Machines, CNC Milling Machines, etc. This article will focus on CNC Milling Machines and help you understand how to choose the right CNC milling service and machine.
Picking the Right CNC Milling Machine
Maximizing profit and optimizing production is the output of a computerized numerical controlled production process. But before you can benefit from and take advantage of this technological leverage, you must know how to pick the right machine. So how do you do this?
1. Identify the Use
It is only logical to know what you intend to shop for before going on a shopping spree. While some people go shopping on a whim, because they wish to “spoil” themselves, you cannot shop for a CNC milling machine that way. The reason is, there are different types of milling machines, ranging from plain milling to face milling, angular milling, and so on. Therefore, your purchase should be determined by your use. You must identify what you intend to produce before buying one.
2. Identify the Size of your Product
As with all machines, they are produced in different sizes. This gives clients with different purchasing power the opportunity to enjoy the service the machine can render. Therefore, after gaining clarity on what you intend to produce, the next step is to gain clarity on the size of what you intend to produce. This will ensure you do not make a wrong purchase.
3. Understand the Complexity of your Product
This is important because although it is an automated machine, not all machines have flexible parts. While some machines are programmed to automatically switch parts to fit the product design where it is needed, others are fixed. An example is a machine with a fixed machining head and one with different machining heads. Purchasing the former will make it difficult to create a product with complex designs and it will ultimately lead to frustration and loss of financial resources.
4. Ease in Replacing Spare Parts
When purchasing any kind of machine (not just a milling machine), you must look into the brand you are purchasing from. This will ensure that where there is a breakdown, an inevitable occurrence, in the long run, your technician will find it easy to access the spare parts and get your machine running smoothly again in no time.
It may seem like unnecessary work having to carry out the surveys and research needed to compare company brands but it will be stress well worth it in the long run. By doing this, you will save yourself the time that will be spent looking for scarce spare parts. You will also save yourself from financial loss which will be occasioned when production comes to a halt because your milling machine is unavailable.
5. Ascertain the Feed Rate of the Machine
The feed rate of a milling machine is the speed. This will determine how fast the machine will cut materials during production. This means the lower the speed, the lower the output and the higher the speed, the higher the output. You definitely want to ensure that the feed rate is top-notch!
Conclusion
It is never a good idea to go into any financial venture without due research. Buying a milling machine is not different. You must conduct your research and carry out due diligence before you make the financial commitment to purchase one.
