A Detail Discussion on CNC Machining Challenges

Posted On: September 20, 2022

The demand for precisely fabricated or machined parts, be it standard sized or custom made, has risen across industries. OEMs and fabricators look for advanced manufacturing techniques to stay ahead in the competition and fulfill the application demand. Among all the fabrication techniques, CNC machining is the most popular and widely preferred technique. The technique uses computer numeric control to produce parts or products of the required shape, size, and so on from plastic or sheet metal. CNC machining has a high-efficiency level for creating complex parts with utmost precision. Also, it performs mundane and repetitive manufacturing tasks with the same accuracy, regardless of the volumes. That said, various challenges are undoubtedly involved in CNC machining standard and complex parts. This post highlights some common CNC machining challenges. So, stay tuned.

Common Challenges in CNC Machining 

CNC machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that creates desired parts with intricate details. Compared to other fabrication processes, it can be more challenging as it demands a high-level accuracy and precision. Additionally, several other factors impact the outcome of the machining process. Some common challenges in CNC machining includes:

• One of the major challenges OEMs face while performing CNC machining is to produce parts with complex geometrics. As a result, the machine operator tends to apply shortcuts in terms of part holding or fixturing, or eliminate certain elements of the part designs. This may lead to increased certain levels of distortion and stress. It may also have a negative impact on overall productivity.

• Next is heat generation. Every material has its limitation. With the increasing demand for strong, compact and complex machined parts, experts are always looking to find the appropriate new alloys and composites. Inexorably, materials sometimes are pushed beyond their limits, which can cause overheating and subsequent damages. This can significantly impact the overall quality of the desired products.

• When parts are designed using CNC machining, it is essential to use the right tool and setting. The wrong cutting tool can result in poor quality machined parts, visible by burn spots or rough edges. Also, the wrong cutting tool can cause thermal and mechanical damage to the material. This problem can be fixed by selecting the right CNC equipment after thoroughly understanding the application requirements. Also, the operator must refer to the instruction manual, given by the machine manufacturer, that details the various parameters for different tools.

• Poor programming is another major challenge in CNC machining that affects the entire production. As said before, all CNC equipment is controlled by advanced automated programs and incorrect programming can directly impact the accuracy of the machined parts. To avoid such circumstances, operators should have enough experience and knowledge of using the right CNC program.

• An inadequate power supply is the most fundamental issue some OEMs experience. CNC machining services are complex compared to other manufacturing processes, and require an adequate and seamless power supply. To get the desired results, it is necessary to ensure adequate and continuous power and voltage supply. Here, the location and grid capacity as well as power backup facilities play an important role.

Considering the pointers mentioned above, it is of utmost importance to consult a machinist with enough experience to handle challenges in CNC machining services. This is beneficial in many ways. By employing an experienced and knowledgeable CNC machining services provider, you can easily avoid these common mistakes, which may otherwise produce losses or product recalls in the future. Also, this helps save money and time, and guarantees that the parts are produced to the highest standards. This post concludes by letting you know about a reliable, industry-leading manufacturer – BDE, Inc. – that specializes in precise CNC machining services. The company is ISO certified and has a market presence for several years. With their highly experienced, skilled experts and precision equipment, they can produce precise and high-quality parts for several industries.