CNC machining has led to significant improvements in the manufacturing industry. It has replaced traditional manufacturing and uses modern techniques to produce machined parts. Manufacturers use cutting tools and machines such as lathes and mills to fabricate the components made of different materials. These parts come in varying shapes, thicknesses, and strength levels which are some of their benefits and reasons for use in various industries. We look at other reasons for using machined parts below.
Importance of machined parts to companies
Machined parts have unique qualities that set them apart from other parts. These parts have been tested in advance and meet the required industrial standards and specifications. Some of their advantages include;
1. Lack of MOQ
MOQ or the minimum order quantity is the least number of products you can order from a factory or supplier. Most manufacturers apply this rule to limit the use of resources to produce a few product pieces. However, with machined parts, MOQ doesn’t apply. You have the choice to order the parts in bulk or small quantities since the cost, time, or resources used are not affected. The machining process involves cutting from a workpiece, meaning a single piece or several can be cut. Most people prefer machining for small production runs and molding for bulk goods, but the quality of the parts is unmatched. The no MOQ rule makes part machining ideal for all.
2. Freedom of design
As mentioned above, machined parts have different shapes and sizes. CNC machining focuses on fine details and complexity of the parts other than their dimensions or thickness. A client can request any product design as long as it meets the needed specifications. Machining is a flexible process, unlike molding, where product design constraints are many. Products formed from it are thin, tapered, or have a strict general design. CNC machining has few design limitations, but the freedom of design isn’t affected much.
3. Short lead times
Machined parts are produced within a short period compared to those made through injection molding. A major reason for this is the automated system that involves minimal labor from workers. The machines are programmed and can run independently, thus reducing the time needed for breaks, machine breakdowns, material feeding, and much more. In addition, the machines are precise and efficient, thereby producing parts with little to no errors. This means the process doesn’t have to be redone, and the products can enter the market quickly.
4. Can act as prototypes
Prototypes come in handy when manufacturing products in bulk. Most manufacturers use injection molding in particular to develop prototypes, but the tooling cost makes it expensive for small companies. Machined parts are the way to go if you want a single prototype for your goods at affordable prices. Also, you can have them in various materials since CNC machining is versatile.
5. Excellent surface finish
Machined parts have a good and smooth surface, unlike molded parts which have jetting and flow lines. The post-processing of these parts makes them even better for use.
Conclusion
The benefits that come with machined parts are numerous. A company’s choice of tolerances makes the parts high-quality. It is easy for manufacturers to alter the design or create several versions of the part. These parts are affordable, especially to small companies which want few products. Also, they have high strength levels, thus more durable than other parts.
