Choosing a CNC machine tool can be a daunting task. There are a number of key factors to consider that can have a significant impact on productivity and quality of machining, and the wrong choice can result in wasted time, wasted resources and reduced overall company efficiency. We've compiled a list of eight factors to consider when making a decision to purchase a CNC machine tool.
1. MATERIAL.
Two related but fundamental questions you should ask yourself: What material will you be machining? What will you be producing? This is because CNC machines are suited for a variety of functions. For example, if you are a woodworker, the machine you will use to mill furniture parts will be different from the machine you will use to cut signs. Obviously, wood is much different in its properties than metal. Thus, if you are looking for a CNC machine that is best suited for machining metal, avoid choosing a wood CNC router. Instead, choose other options such as a metal CNC milling machine, an EDM machine, or a fiber laser CNC machine.
2. BUDGET
Different manufacturers target different market segments, developing and selling CNC machines at different prices. It is important to note that CNC machines costing less than 100 thousand rubles are not suitable for commercial use. Such machines are designed for amateurs. Thus, if you need a CNC machine for your business, it is better to focus on more expensive machines designed for commercial use. Also, the prices of CNC machines vary depending on the technology and capabilities used.
3. SIZE, CAPACITY, AND PRODUCTION VOLUME
Some CNC machines, especially those designed for mass production of parts, occupy a large footprint comparable to a small passenger car or SUV. In addition, in some cases, machines such as laser cutters require additional equipment such as an air compressor, compressed air dryer, and a specialized dust collection and air filtration system. So, before you choose a CNC machine, ask yourself if your workshop is big enough to accommodate all this equipment.
And if the shop is large enough, is your production volume commensurate? Large CNC machines are designed for mass production. So, if you want to choose a CNC machine that will help you prototype and manufacture products faster, it is advisable to choose a large machine with all the tools you need. However, the size also affects the price.
On the other hand, if you are choosing a machine with a small footprint, it is equally important to consider the usable area. The machine should not be so small that it prevents you from performing tasks or working on certain sizes. Therefore, when choosing a CNC machine, pay attention to terms such as "work area" and "usable area". These terms define the exact area within which the cutting tool can operate.
4. CAD/CAM SOFTWARE
Most consumer-grade CNC machines come with a CAD/CAM program included or as an option. However, you don't have to worry about the program that comes with the machine tool. Most CAM programs such as Fusion, SolidWorks, CATIA, BobCAD and others are compatible with most CNC machines.
However, some manufacturers, such as CarveWright and ShaperTools, maintain a closed ecosystem by developing their own systems designed to control toolpaths. This means you'll have to learn how to use such software, which adds unnecessary steps to the manufacturing process. Sometimes, you can only access such programs by paying a subscription fee. So, when choosing a CNC machine, pay attention to whether you can control it with third-party software or whether the software is free.
5. CUTTING OR MACHINING TECHNOLOGY
There are different types of CNC machines, each using a different cutting or machining technology. As emphasized above, these technologies are suitable for different materials and produce different results. In addition, some machines, such as those like CNC waterjet machines, can be used not only for cutting material but also for paint removal and surface preparation. Others, such as CNC milling machines, can be used for drilling, boring, and shaping metals, while CNC lathes can be used for tapping, boring, drilling, reaming, and facing. Thus, you should pay attention to the machining technology as it opens up a lot of operations other than cutting.
6. CONTROL CHARACTER (PC OR MANUAL OPERATION)
Some CNC machines, have manual controls. This means that they put the responsibility on you, the user, to manually operate the machine while cutting. However, these machines are equipped with intelligent features that compensate for human error. For example, some machines make real-time adjustments to ensure a clean cut. In addition, if you deviate from the programmed path, the machine's spindle automatically and safely retracts.
With other CNC machines, their cutting tools and their movements are 100% controlled either through a control system on your personal computer or through software installed on the machine itself. The latter category works without a PC connection. But there is a price to pay for this convenience, as CNC machines of this type are often more expensive than PC-based machines. This is because they have a built-in computer that performs the computing tasks.
7. ONLINE FORUMS
With CNC machine tools and systems, sometimes there can be problems and difficulties. Fortunately, reputable manufacturers have online forums that allow users to share experiences, ask questions, and get answers. These online communities are valuable resources for gathering opinions from real users that can help you compare machine tools. They can also help you familiarize yourself with how machines work.
8. OPERATOR SKILL LEVEL
CNC machines function very differently, so the operator needs to learn how each machine works. The knowledge gained from operating a particular type of CNC machine may not be applicable to another, especially if it is made by a different manufacturer. However, to get around this problem, operators can use the same universal CNC controller for each machine.
Manufacturers such as Fanuc sell a wide range of CNC control systems. This line includes systems for standard machining as well as systems capable of performing the most complex processes. These systems are compatible with CNC machines from other manufacturers. Thus, you may want to consider purchasing a universal CNC control system.
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