Computer numerical control (CNC) is a method various manufacturers rely on to manufacture different goods and parts. CNC machining is a procedure in which computer-programmed software moves different machinery and tools.
A CNC machinist ensures that these software and machine are well set up and running smoothly. However, manual machining was the primary production method until CNC technology took over. Manual machining requires one professional per machine.
Although some people still use manual machining for their manufacturing, it is not common. If you want to know which method suits you, here’s a comparison between the two methods.
This section will show you the cost difference between CNC and manual machining. The cost differences are as follows:
The rate of scrap, labor costs, maintenance fees, and the volume of parts produced are only a few of the many variables that can affect the cost of the machining process. After comparing the two thoroughly, you can conclude that the overall cost of CNC machining is cheaper than manual milling.
Compared to hand machining, CNC is more accurate, precise, and has a lower scrap rate. Manual machining is more expensive and constrained since it requires more labor and upkeep.
This process is expensive due to the manual machining waste rate, labor expense, and increased maintenance. The need for CNC machining parts increases globally due to high precision parts and reduced scrapping rates.
Knowing the working principles of both processes is also an excellent way to compare manual machining and CNC.
Humans control the manual machining process. They include many ancient machines like lathes, end mills, grinders, drill presses, and bandsaws. A manual machinist can produce several prototyping products for different purposes with these manual machines. However, unlike CNC machining, that’s controlled by the computer’s automation, manual machining takes a lot of attention and time to perform any tasks.
Automatic CNC machining uses digital files with tolling and cutting instructions. As a result, multiple tools are needed to produce machine parts for the CNC machine process. It also requires a machinist and engineer to build digital tool libraries which interface with CNC machines.
These machines may function automatically using CAD instructions (computer-aided design) and digital commands. The needed qualities and dimensions of the finished part depend on the 3D model that the software generates.
The production runs in the same programs because CAD-CAM packages are packaged with several software applications. And if CAD and CAM applications produce the same product family, file translation won't be necessary. In the absence of that, you must import the CAD file.
You can also know the similarities and differences between CNC and manual machining by understanding the pros of each.
Some of the advantages of CNC machining services include the following:
● Consistency & flexibility
Precision and adaptability are two essential characteristics of CNC machining. Due to its accurate part fabrication, lucrative production, efficiency, and uniform cuts, CNC machining is widely used to create parts and components. Additionally, various unique metals can be produced using CNC machinery and technology. CNC machining is employed for producing huge parts and cutting materials. Multiple CNC machines can be operated with ease by one trained engineer.
● Efficiency & reliability
Computers control CNC machining and thus eliminate the possibility of human error. CNC machining is quicker and more dependable than manual machining since it is computer-operated. In summary, CNC machining is faster and more accurate during production.
● Reduced Maintenance and Human Labor Requirements
For the manufacturing process, CNC machines only require a few skilled operators for their manufacturing process. This means that only an experienced machinist can carry out the production tasks. CNC machines require minimal upkeep and care, even though they operate nonstop, and they simply need periodic maintenance.
Less labor-intensive and low upkeep. They simply need periodic maintenance.
● Safety and Uniformity of Design
CNC can produce the same design repeatedly because the programming and dimension are the same for some components. As a result, it is a technique for raising earnings without raising costs or efforts. Additionally, using CNC machines guarantees security. With CNC machining, operators are removed from the machines and do not feel a physical connection.
Although CNC machining has a higher advantage over manual machining when it comes to producing top-notch machining parts, manual machining still has its benefits. These are some of the benefits:
● Cheaper for Smaller Manufacturing
Manual machining can also be used in making metal and plastic pieces and achieve the same goal. For small production projects and low-budget enterprises, it proves less expensive for low-budget companies and small production projects.
● Suitable Option for Metal Shapes
Manual machines take more time and involve more tools to complete the manufacturing process. So you can use it for parts fabrication and minor operations. The manual or conventional process is recommended for simple metal shapes because it is less expensive than alternative methods.
We can’t compare CNC and manual machining without discussing the CNC machines. These are the top three CNC machines to help you understand CNC machining vs. manual machining:
CNC mill machine is used to produce complex parts. It removes material from a solid block and creates custom pieces using a revolving cylindrical tool. Additionally, the cutting tools of CNC mills can rotate in the X, Y, and Z directions, as well as move along multiple axes to grind the component. In conclusion, CNC milling machines are the finest for producing high-quality, precise products for various sectors.
Manual milling cannot automatically translate specific commands to regulate their movements by the numeric controller. A manual mill might finally produce a component but with lots of flaws.
Most time, CNC lathe machines produce parts using exact design instructions. Lathe machines use clamped material that rotates with the spindle for woodturning, thermal spraying, and metalworking. The CNC lathe machine can create forms with flat, conical, or cylindrical surfaces.
EDM manufacturing uses heat energy to remove the material from the workpiece. The procedure doesn't require mechanical force from the machinist. EDM uses a cutting tool to perform its function and is mainly used to manufacture and shape complex items. It can also produce pieces that neither a manual machine nor a milling machine can.
These are some of the industries that use CNC machining in their manufacturing processes:
Electronic producers use CNC machining to produce jigs, PCBs, fixtures, and housing for the electronic sector. The most famous market is microphones and mobile phones.
The oil and gas industry employs CNC machining to produce pistons, pins, and rods. This sector requires tight precision and tolerance machining parts, so CNC machining is the most suitable method for creating such parts.
The medical sector needs quality parts with higher precision and a complex surface. Therefore, CNC machining is the most used manufacturing method in the health sector. Complex medical equipment like MPI scanners, X-rays monitor, and so on are produced with CNC machining.
It is unrealistic to expect that hand machining will produce the same results as CNC. Unlike manual machining,
accurate, exact, and safe CNC machining, controlled by CAD and CAM software, provides efficiency, outstanding production at a lower cost, and, most significantly, offers safety.
Do you no longer use hand machining for creating prototypes of parts? You can choose from Ares Prototyping online CNC machining services. Our site offers free DFM feedback, full dimensional reports inspection, and rapid estimates for CNC machining and custom machined items. Upload your files today to get started!
Accuracy and processing time are the key differences between manual and CNC lathes. On a manual lathe, careful cutting can produce components with great accuracy, but CNC machining provides extremely accurate parts at a lower cost in a shorter amount of time. On a CNC lathe, you can operate it and perform complex machining without any prior experience, but with a manual lathe, you need a lot of experience.
Although CNC machining offers many benefits, it also has certain disadvantages. CNC machines are more expensive than manual machines, although the cost of running a CNC lathe is gradually reducing. Furthermore, using CNC machining doesn't require any special abilities or experience. It implies that we will lose qualified and knowledgeable individuals. CNC machining also requires less labor, which may contribute to unemployment and a downturn in the engineering sector.