In the past, everything we see and use was created through human engineering. While this level of expertise and skill is still necessary in modern-day manufacturing, many companies now rely on CNC milling as opposed to more traditional techniques. Here is what you need to know about the differences between CNC vs. traditional manufacturing.
What is Traditional Manufacturing?
The traditional machining process requires that a human operator control and direct machine tools, such as drilling, boring, and milling machines, as well as any cutting tools. This person is responsible for directing where and how intensely the tool will contact the raw material through the use of wheels, levers, or buttons to achieve the desired results.
What is CNC Machining?
While CNC machining still requires a human to manage and oversee the software, its process is much more automated. Once the movements are programmed into the software program, the software itself will direct the tool for the various movements to produce the desired results.
CNC vs. Traditional Manufacturing — Pros and Cons
Now that you know the basics of CNC vs. traditional manufacturing, here are some of the pros and cons of choosing one versus the other.
1. Continuous Usage
When using traditional manufacturing methods, human workers have to be hands-on with every step of the process. But they will require breaks, so there is no ability to continuously produce parts. While this is understandable, CNC machining has other capabilities. It still requires human workers, but they are able to load specifications into the computer and then the machinery can run constantly to produce high-quality items day or night without stopping. Where it used to take weeks or longer to complete large projects, CNC machining has enabled time and cost savings.
2. Consistency
One of the top benefits of CNC machining is that it can produce consistent parts and components over and over in the same shape, size, and quality. With traditional manufacturing, there may be slight variations among each part.
3. Reduced Test Runs
When producing a prototype or part using traditional manufacturing methods, numerous test runs may be necessary to exactly match the required specifications. With CNC machining, this isn’t necessary because the equipment will do exactly as the software directs.
4. Capability
When used alongside advanced software solutions, CNC routing can create parts and objects that are difficult, if not impossible, to duplicate using manual methods. This is because CNC machines can produce items of any shape or size using various materials.
5. Design Retention
Once your design has been loaded into the computer system for CNC machining and you have a prototype that is what you want, the instructions are saved for as long as you need them. With manufacturing, those instructions might get changed or misplaced easily.
Let Components By Design Help With Your CNC Routing Needs
Components By Design, Inc. offers a full range of CNC routing services. Located in the Charlotte area, our CNC professionals have over 20 years of experience working in CNC technology. We can bring your idea for a part or product to life with our high-quality attention to detail and services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your vision a reality.