CNC Machining or Computer Numerical Control emerged as a faster and more efficient production strategy. Thanks to this technology, parts are manufactured using programmed milling machines, lathes, or EDM machines, which simultaneously remove a layer of material from the processed object. Another solution is manual machining, which is not typically programmable equipment and should be manually operated by specialists. Each of these machines has certain advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before purchasing them. What should you pay attention to? What are the differences between a manual and a machine milling machine? We write about it below!
Which technology is better?
The advantages of CNC machining significantly outweigh those of manual machining. Nevertheless, many manufacturers use manual machining, for example, when creating prototype parts. It is extremely important to choose the correct part production technique, as it is the first step towards a well-executed project. To be aware of which solution to apply in a given circumstance, we decided to present the advantages and principles of CNC machining and manual machining.
How to distinguish a manual lathe from a CNC lathe?
The main difference between a manual lathe and a CNC machine is precision and time consumption. Perfect and automated cutting with a CNC machine is not possible with a manual mill. This is also due to the fact that CNC machining performs tasks in less time and at a lower cost. Unfortunately, using a CNC lathe requires significant experience, while such knowledge is not necessary with a manual lathe.
How does CNC work?
Automatic CNC machining requires digital files with cutting instructions and tooling. Being aware of this, it should be emphasized that the process of creating a product using CNC requires various tools. In addition, engineers and operators working with CNC machines create specialized programs designed to cooperate with CNC machines. The operation of these machines is automatic, as CAD software is used here. The 3D model, which is created by the program, is tasked with determining the properties and size of the manufactured object.
How does a milling machine and manual machining work?
Manual milling machines are hand-operated. This allows operators to create a large number of products in their own individual way. In practice, operators can make different sizes of elements on one machine according to different templates. Remember that manual milling is more time-consuming and requires greater focus in the production process compared to a CNC machine, which operates on the principle of automation.
CNC Machining - Advantages of Machining
You can also compare and contrast manual machining and CNC machining, understanding the advantages of each. Below we present the reasons why it is worth using a CNC machine for product machining.
Precision
One of the fundamental advantages of CNC machining is the accuracy and versatility of the produced elements. Many industries use CNC machining to create parts and components due to precise part production, profitability, accurate cuts. CNC allows us to produce a range of non-standard metals. Moreover, one person is enough to operate several CNC machines.
Perfection and scale
Machining with CNC is computer-controlled, which eliminates the possibility of human error. Operating a computer, instead of manually handling the entire machine, is fast, reliable, and precise. All these features make production more efficient with CNC compared to a manual milling machine.
Reduction of human factor and ease of maintenance
Using a CNC machine and CNC machining does not require a large number of employees. One specialist can perform a series of tasks related to production. Additionally, the equipment is easy to maintain despite the fact that it actually works 24 hours a day.
Wholesale production and safety
Another advantage is that CNC machining can replicate the production of a single component multiple times in bulk quantities. This is due to the fact that a specific component is designed in a specific size and cut using a program. Operating CNC equipment is safe, as the operator is far from its physical hardware.
Advantages of manual machining
It seems that a fully automated and programmed machine along with CNC technology is irreplaceable. Nevertheless, a manual milling machine also has many advantages, making it a product that remains attractive.
Low costs
A manual milling machine can be used to produce parts from plastics and metal. It is a machine that generates lower costs if we are creating low-budget projects in small quantities. With a manual milling machine, we can create the machined object in various ways. The entire process takes place through the manual movement of the worker, who physically selects the range of the drill diameter. In a small amount of work, the manual milling machine leads to low production costs. If we are interested in performing tasks in a wholesale manner, then CNC machining and CNC milling will be a better solution than using a manual milling machine.
Manual milling machine good for metal
Manual milling machines require specific tools and time to perform production. This method is recommended for use on simple metal shapes, as it is relatively inexpensive.
Various CNC machines
Material processing using CNC can take place using several types of equipment:
- CNC Milling Machine - the above method is used for the production of complex parts. It operates thanks to cylindrical tools used to remove material from a solid block and to create custom parts. Additionally, the cutting elements of CNC milling machines can move along multiple axes in order to mill parts and rotate in the X, Y, Z directions.
- CNC Lathe - this type of equipment operates based on project instructions. The lathe involves clamping the material and rotating the spindle, which results in metal machining, thermal spraying, and turning. Thanks to it, we can produce flat or conical cylindrical shapes. It can also change the roughness of the surface and the visual properties of the machined object. This type of lathe reduces the risk of human errors. If we were to compare a CNC lathe to a manual lathe, it should be noted that the CNC machine is faster and more accurate.
- EDM – EDM Production is a method of removing workpiece material using thermal energy. The machine operator does not have to apply any force for the process to be carried out. Thanks to this technology, parts can be produced that cannot be made by either a manual milling machine or a CNC machine. EDM is a precise method of high quality.
CNC Machining vs Manual - Costs
Below we present the difference in costs when using a CNC machine versus a manual mill.
- Bulk quantity - if we produce many items, we need to consider several cost-generating factors, including, for example, the scrap rate, labor costs, maintenance fees, etc. When producing many items, it may turn out that the total cost of CNC machining is lower than in the case of manual milling.
- Scrap and service costs - CNC machining is more accurate and faster in the production process. A manual milling machine has higher maintenance costs compared to a CNC machine.
- Defective production costs - CNC machine production generates lower costs than manual milling, as it has a high precision rate.
CNC Machining - Application
CNC milling machines and CNC machines are often used for several sectors, which we present below:
- electronics – electronics manufacturers know that CNC machines can create equipment casings, boards, devices etc. CNC machining is often used in the production of phones and microphones.
- automotive industry - the automotive industry uses CNC machines to manufacture custom parts. Gearboxes, valves, cylinder blocks, axles, and many others are produced.
- energy - The oil and gas industry uses CNC milling machines to produce rods, pins, and pistons. This industry requires parts with strict tolerance and precise machining, therefore CNC machining is the best method for manufacturing such components.
- medicine - CNC machining is fully automated and precise, which is greatly applicable in the medical industry. It is used in the production of X-ray monitors, surgical instruments, etc.
What is safer?
Manual milling is not a safe activity, as it requires the operator to touch the equipment. Using CNC machines is exceptionally safe, as all operations are performed by a program, without physical human intervention. The machine is located away from the workers, and the entire procedure takes place in a safe place. This means in practice that CNC milling and processing using this technology is much safer than manual milling. Additionally, CNC is more precise and better produces elements on a mass scale thanks to programming and automation of tasks.