How CNC Machine Shop Apply in Prototype Manufacturing

What is CNC machining technology?

Nowadays many prototype companies possessa CNC machine shop, especially CNC milling. Then what is CNC machining technology?

Computer Numerical control (CNC) is the use of computers to automatically control processing tools and 3D printers. CNC machine tools process a piece of material (metal, wood, plastic, ceramic or composite) in accordance with coded program instructions, without the need for manual operation. Therefore, compared with traditional machine tools, CNC machine tools have better machining precision in CNC machine metal and plastic. In modern CNC systems, the design of mechanical parts and their manufacturing processes are highly automated. The mechanical dimensions of the part are defined using CAD software and then converted to manufacturing instructions using computer aided manufacturing (CAM) software.

There are several commonly used CNC machines: CNC Milling machine, CNC turning, CNC plasma cutter, among which CNC milling machine can be divided into 3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis milling machines. Different axis can process different direction of CNC parts. They make a huge sense on nowadays’ prototype manufacturing.

What is Precision Machining?

Precision machining is an evolving manufacturing sector that affects our daily lives. Therefore, it is a key contributor to this field today. But what is precision machining?

Precision machining is a process that removes excess raw material from the work-piece while maintaining tight tolerances to produce the finished product. In a word, this means processing large pieces of material into more precise parts so that they meet very precise specifications. 

What is Quality Precision Machining?

Quality precision machining requires very specific drawings that can be produced in accordance with CAD or CAM programs such as AutoCAD and TurboCAD. The software can help produce complex, 3D charts or overviews needed to make tools, machines or objects. These blueprints must be followed in great detail to ensure that the product maintains its integrity. Although most precision machining companies use some form of CAD/CAM program, they still use hand-drawn sketches often during the initial stages of design.

The second factor to be precision machining is using CNC equipment. Precision mechanics use a variety of materials such as glass, bronze, plastic, graphite, steel and other metals. A variety of precision machining tools and techniques will be used according to the size of the project and the materials involved. Therefore, operators must be proficient in these different processes and equipment and have experience. They can use any combination of grinders, drill presses, lathes, saws, CNC milling machines, and even high-speed robots to get CNC parts done. With the high precision involved, CNC machine tools are often used to make sure that the finished product meets the exact dimensions.

The aerospace industry may use high speed machining, while the woodworking tool manufacturing industry may use photochemical etching and milling processes. The output of a run, or the specific number of any particular item, can be thousands or just a few. Precision machining usually requires the programming of numerical control equipment, which means that they are computer numerically controlled. CNC equipment allows precise dimensions to be followed throughout the operation of the product.

How CNC Machine Shop Apply in Prototype Manufacturing

Today's industry is growing at an alarming rate. In order to meet the needs of today's customers, keeping up with the trend or going ahead of the trend is critical to your business. Here are 7 advantages of using CNC precision machining in the prototype manufacturing.

1.        Lower Errors.

By using a CNC machining, once the correct specifications are entered, the automated precision machining process takes over. Compared to manual machining, the chance of error is extremely low. When you outsource this work, you don't have to hire the highly skilled employees who can help run these machines.

2.        Reducing material waste

Because the core concept of finishing is subtraction, there is a huge potential for material waste from start to finish on a product. CNC precision machining helps reduce material loss due to human error. The contract company may also purchase the bulk of the materials you need to work and transfer the money you have saved.

3.        Consistent product quality

Through the precision machining of CNC machine tools, consistent output can be obtained again and again. Consistently producing high quality CNC machining metal and plastic parts can enhance customer confidence and increase brand awareness.

4.        Improving Workflows

When considering how to manage opportunity costs, the key is that engineers' time and skills are spent on actual product development rather than minor design changes. Companies that offer contract precision machining services can often assist with minor modifications during the prototyping process to meet design or industry standards.

5.        Shorten turnaround time

There is an opportunity to improve your existing plant workflow (you can use internal precision machines if you can afford machine investment and skilled workforce), or use contract processing services. Contract companies have experience with this type of work and have the right systems to get the job done as efficiently as possible. 

1.        Faster production cycles

Modern CNC machining brings your products to market faster, giving you an advantage over facilities that still use the old methods. You may be more flexible due to changes in industry rules or customer requirements.

7. Simplified Prototype Testing

1) Precision machining offers your business an opportunity to explore smaller niche markets with potentially high returns. Precision CNC machining can allow for a flexible product development phase because the niche opportunities are deterministic. If there is demand in the market, processing can be transferred to full-size production mode.

2) Precision machining also allows prototypes to have features rather than more concepts/design prototypes. Functional prototypes are more likely to inspire investor confidence than conceptual prototypes.