Despite ongoing developments in technologies like 3D printing, using a CNC machine is one of the most affordable strategies for on-demand production. Its value for machining materials like metals cannot be disputed. However, several variables make it challenging to calculate the CNC parts cost. If you fall within the above category, read this write-up carefully to know the aspects that machine shops consider when estimating prices.
Factors That Determine CNC Machining Costs
The use of machinery such as grinders, lathes, and turning mills to cut, shape, and produce various components and prototypes is controlled by CNC machining. Every day, CNC machinists use a combination of mathematical concepts, technical drawings, computer programming, and mechanical design to create a range of metal and plastic parts. Knowing the different factors taken into account before determining the CNC parts cost is helpful for machine shops.
Here is a look at the factors that machinists use to calculate the related costs:
- Machining– The type of machine determines the cost of machining. 3-axis and multi-axis machines are the two primary machine types utilized in CNC machining. When seen in Europe, the CNC parts cost of a 3-axis machine is around $35–40 per hour. However, the multi-axis machine is more expensive, at $75–120 per hour. These can be cheaper in India. The price of the machine and the anticipated number of hours the machine will run each year are two other elements that affect machining expenses. Several clients use machining cost estimator applications to estimate the cost of their projects.
- Materials Being Used– As a subtractive process, CNC machining typically uses more material than what will be on the finished product. Machinists purchase these materials in blocks and determine the cost per block. Metals and plastics are the two materials kinds that are most frequently utilized in CNC machining. Among metals, Brass C360, Stainless Steel 303, and Aluminum 6061 are frequently used in CNC machining. Low cost and excellent machinability make Aluminum 6061 the most popular choice among machinists.
Due to the lower average cost of bulk materials and the quicker machining times resulting from their reduced hardness, plastics are more affordable for CNC machining. The bulk costs of plastics like Nylon 6, ABS, and POM (Delrin) are comparable to those of Aluminum 6061, albeit they might be more expensive per block.
- Part Design and Geometry– A generalization is that a part’s manufacturing cost will increase with complexity. Complex parts can need more sophisticated equipment to make.
- Tooling Costs– The machine shop might need specialized tool bits for some unique CNC fabrications. You can be required to cover a portion of the machine costs even if the tool bits remain in the machine shop after production. This is due to the possibility of tool wear during usage, particularly if the raw material is very hard.
- Paying for Labor– You don’t have to pay for many staff employees because the CNC machining process involves a lot of automation. The three primary categories of labor expenses for CNC manufacturing processes are:
- Setting Up– The machine operator is involved in taking time to set up the machine for a bespoke CNC project here and ensure that everything is done in a way that produces a fantastic outcome. The amount of pieces to be manufactured determines the setup cost. The cost per component is cheaper when manufacturing bulk parts because it is distributed over more pieces.
- Programming– This portion of labor costs is the most expensive. You must hire a designer to create a CAD file for your product. This can be avoided if you handle it yourself. Next, the production engineer verifies your design’s repeatability and offers recommendations for improving it. The programmer, who does this last, transforms the CAD file into a CAM file for the CNC machine to comprehend the design. All this knowledge will cost money.
- Post Processing– Following manufacture, your product will need to be assembled and transported to the intended destination. Some physical effort will be required for these operations, adding to the overall cost.
- Surface Finish– Surface finishes improve CNC machined items’ look and abrasion resistance. Despite their benefits, they raise the machining cost.
How the Costs Vary
There are no fixed expenses in CNC machining that can be applied consistently to various machining tasks. A project’s cost for CNC machining is jointly affected by several elements. Understanding those aspects and how much they affect the cost is advised because the cost is a key issue in most initiatives.
Understanding the Need for CNC Machines
If you still don’t see the need for a CNC machine, this paragraph will make you understand this better. CNC, the abbreviation for Computerized Numerical Control, is a manufacturing process where production equipment is moved by pre-programmed software and codes. Leading manufacturers of essential industrial items, including jet engines, helicopters, and submarines, use CNC machines. Today’s workers utilize their machining abilities in a tidy, professional environment with cutting-edge technology.
Duties of a CNC Machinist
Regular tasks for CNC operators could include:
- Assembling, putting into operation, and dismantling manual, automated, and CNC machine tools
- Reading blueprints, drawings, or computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) data
- Checking the machines’ feed and speed
- Fastening, adjusting, and lining up cutting implements and workpieces
- Turning, drilling, milling, shaping, grinding and drilling machine parts as per specifications
- Measuring, inspecting, and testing finished goods for flaws
- Sanding down the surfaces of components or goods
- Presenting final products to clients and making adjustments as necessary.
Conclusion
Contrary to the outdated, hazardous manufacturing machinery from before, today’s design and mechanical components for CNC systems are highly automated. Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software are used to specify the mechanical dimensions of the parts and convert those definitions into production instructions. As a result, the industry needs skilled CNC machinists and programmers to run this cutting-edge equipment while keeping costs in check.