CNC Machining Service

Generates Minimal to No Waste

CNC machining is not only efficient, but it can also minimize material wastage thanks to its precision and accuracy. As long as the part is designed properly in the computer, the machine itself will almost never make faulty cuts, so there will be fewer damaged parts to discard. The machine can handle precise cuts and angles without generating much waste.

More Accurate and Has No Defects

One of the major CNC machining benefits is accuracy. Because CNC machines receive precise instructions from a computer-and the movements are similarly carried out under computer control-their results will be identical each time and will match the computer model closely. This is a huge advantage when it comes to creating parts with tight tolerances. This capability almost entirely eliminates human error from the equation.

Offers More Rapid and Effective Production

Another industry-cornering CNC machining benefit is the inherent speed and efficiency of production. CNC machines are capable of producing products much more quickly and efficiently than traditional methods. Many modern units can even load the billet and unload the completed product without human intervention. Naturally, this capability leads to significant cost savings and increased productivity. In addition, this sort of automation makes parts more consistent.

CNC Machining Makes Assembly Faster

Products whose components are created under computer numerical control are simpler to assemble. Because CNC machining is so precise and consistent, companion parts will fit together exactly as they do on the computer. And since the process is quicker than manual machining, you'll spend less time waiting for parts to be completed. Unless there is a problem in the computer model, all parts should fit together perfectly. This capability can save a lot of time and money in the assembly process, as there is no need for extensive fitting and adjustment.

CNC Machining Separates Machines From People and Reduces the Risk That Would Otherwise Arise

CNC machining removes significant safety risks from the shop floor. By automating the machining process, you can eliminate many of the hazards associated with manual machining. In addition, CNC machines are typically enclosed, which further reduces the risk of injury.

CNC Machining Uses Little Energy

CNC machining uses less electricity than older processes, thereby reducing energy consumption. In fact, according to the EPA, CNC machining uses about one-seventh of the energy of traditional machining methods. There are multiple reasons; CNC machines not only work quickly but draw less power per minute than most other manufacturing methods.

CNC Machining Reduces Production Costs

CNC machining is an economical, efficient, and precise process of manufacturing parts and products. CNC machining also uses fewer raw materials in comparison to conventional machining. Focusing your shop around CNC technology will drastically reduce errors, production expenditures, and product costs.

As-Machined

As-machined parts are fresh off the line with minor tool marks and average surface roughness, and many are molded to already have a specific texture or finished look. A component's average roughness (Ra) is the difference between the actual machining and ideal machining surface roughness, which can vary depending on the use case.

The benefits of an as-machined finish include consistency between multiple units and the tightest dimensional tolerances. Capable of supporting any material, as-machined finishes are great for parts that demand extremely tight tolerances and dimensional integrity as opposed to aesthetics. A downfall of this surface finish is having visible tool marks on your final part that also lacks a protective coating.

Bead Blasting

Bead blasting is a finishing technique that blasts parts with small glass beads through a pressurized air gun. This process mainly improves aesthetics to create a matte or satin finish with a light texture. It's a type of primary finish that mechanically alters the surface to change or remove machining marks by removing excess material, resulting in a smooth surface.

An advantage of bead blasting is its uniform and textured finish. However, it doesn't have much of an effect on tolerances and can affect the surface's critical dimensions. It's also a manual process that can change in terms of both air pressure and the size of glass beads, so the results aren't always identical. If bead blasting plastic components, make sure they can withstand the impact. If not, consider injection molding as an alternative way to achieve a matte finish.

Wet Sanding

Wet sanding is ideal for finishing plastic components to prepare them for painting or clear-coat polish. The process involves using fine-grit silicon carbide sandpaper soaked in water before gently sanding in circular motions. Transitioning from a moderate to low coarse sandpaper helps finish the parts with a smoother surface. Once smooth, you can apply and buff a plastic-safe clear-coat polish to promote shine and sheen.

Fire Polishing

Fire polishing isn't the right fit for all plastic and glass components, but if the materials can withstand the temperatures, it's a highly effective way to finish CNC parts. Operators use an open flame to melt the part's surface layer, keeping the fire at a specific temperature and angle throughout. As the surface reaches a partial melting point, it starts to tense and shift, creating a smooth, polished surface.

Depending on the material you're finishing, fire polishing could turn parts with a cloudy finish into a clear, flattened finish. Fire polishing also reduces any bumps or ridges formed during the production process.

Because fire polishing involves an open flame and careful application, it's best left to trained professionals with previous experience working on plastic CNC components.

Vapor Polishing

Polishing plastic with a chemical vapor is an effective method for clarifying matte, opaque or dull plastics, leaving the final part smooth and shiny. You can use the polishing wheel to smooth edges and inconsistencies while enhancing the material's natural qualities. CNC parts with highly visible imperfections might need sanding before applying the vapor polish.