Views: 1 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-01-03 Origin: Site
CNC machining is one of the prevailing methods used worldwide to manufacture numerous components of all sizes. Although new processes like 3D printing are gaining popularity with time, the accuracy and precision followed by tolerance of the parts produced by CNC machining are unmatchable.
However, at the same time, the factor that creates a problem for many people is the cost calculation of this process. CNC is a very affordable method that helps create components based on various specifications. Still, if you need clarification on its cost calculation, read below.
Kaiao will cover all the factors that affect the cost of CNC machined parts in this guide, as well as tips that may help you reduce the cost of these parts.
If you are looking forward to reducing the cost of the CNC machined parts, the first thing you must consider is the things that form a part of that cost. Once you know how your component cost is calculated, you can look for ways to reduce that cost.
The cost of material is one of the prime considerations because the material is the primary source of creating the component. CNC machining uses the subtractive method of creating the components; hence, a lot of material is wasted.
To manufacture these components, huge blocks of material are purchased and cut into the design and shape needed for the component. So, a lot of material is subtracted from the final component.
CNC machining uses two kinds of materials, one being metals and one plastic.
● Metals
Regarding metals, aluminum, stainless steel, and brass are usually used in different grades. The most common material for CNC machining is aluminum, which works well with the machine and offers an affordable price. However, if you want to manufacture components with a better result than aluminum, you have to pay a hefty cost for that material, like stainless steel and brass.
● Plastics
Compared to metals, plastics have a low cost, and even though they are quite soft, their machining time is also less. Different plastics are priced differently; for instance, when choosing ABS, POM, and nylon, they are almost the same as aluminum pricing. On the other hand, PEEK is an expensive form of plastic and is used only where the component is precious.
The machine's running time also comprises a part of the cost of CNC components. The machine's price is usually divided by the hours it can run to identify the machining cost. However, the cost of the machine also varies according to the manufacturer.
The machines that are purchased from Europe are usually expensive. However, the ones bought from China might be relatively inexpensive. You can invest in the machine according to your budget if you consider reducing costs.
CNC machining is an automated process. It involves little manual intervention, but there is a need for human effort at certain places, and therefore, labor may be needed for that.
● The first thing is the creation of the CAD file; an expert could do this only; hence, this is one of the most costly parts of the entire process. Once the design is created, an engineer has to approve this design and look for any improvements if needed.
Once everything is finalized, the next step is converting the CAD file into the CAM file accessible for the CNC machine. Therefore, this programming part takes up most of the cost and is usually outsourced.
● Setting up the machine is the next stage where human involvement is found. According to the customization, the machine setup is carried out, which also ends up ignoring the labor costs.
● After the manufacturing process has been carried out, the next task is packaging and transporting the finished parts. This will have labor involved who will pack and take away the components to their destination; hence, the cost of labor would be considered here.
There are some additional costs too, which are a part of the CNC machining process, and these might include the following:
● There are specific additional tools that may be needed for a CNC machine, and such additional tools comprise the bits used for the process. The cost of bits is also considered even though they will stay in the machine shop.
● To enhance the surface of the components, it is sometimes essential to make them have some fishing processes like electroplating, anodizing, polishing, etc. these added processes also contribute to the cost of the CNC machined parts and need to be considered.
Once you have determined the factors that are affecting the cost of the CNC machined parts, you must be looking forward to ways to help you reduce that cost. Here we have shared some tips that might be helpful for you, so let's read out below:
The prime cost of CNC machined parts is invested in the material chosen. When manufacturing these parts, you must ensure that you keep an eye on the material cost. If you can find an alternative to an expensive material, do that too.
Machinability also plays a significant role when cutting the cost of CNC machined parts. Some materials take more time than others, and the ones that take time lead to a cost increment.
The design must be simple; the more complex your chosen design is, the more time it will take, and it will also increase your component cost. Hence, if there is room to alter your design of CNC components, you can do that, which will help you save money.
For instance, if there is no need for thin walls, you can eliminate that. You can look forward to avoiding deep pockets and introducing round corners rather than sharp ones.
Apart from manufacturing the CNC machined components in-house, there is also a choice to outsource them. You can choose the CNC machining companies in China because they offer you an optimal result of machined parts at an economical price. At the same time, other international countries might charge you a lot.
If you are looking forward to cutting down the cost of your CNC machined components and looking for a company to outsource the task, you must contact us. We at KAIAO deliver the finest CNC components at an economical price.
We cater to your custom designs at a reasonable price. So, get in touch with our team today and discuss your design to get your quote.