How CNC Technology Enhances Metal Fabrication

by | Sep 26, 2016 | Metal Fabrication

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In the metal fabrication industry, you may deal with a wide range of materials and services. In addition, operations like cutting, grinding, boring and machining can be time consuming and sometimes difficult. When you take advantage of CNC technology you open up an entire new world of possibilities for your business. Here are some of the many benefits CNC can provide.

What is CNC?

Without going into a great deal of technical terms, CNC stands for computer numeric control and it allows many machining functions to be automated. In addition, a myriad of machining and fabricating services are possible with these wonders of advanced technology. In fact, some machines perform complex and detailed operations, turning out intricate and high tolerance parts in a short amount of time.

Consistency

One thing about automated computerized machinery, it is consistent. Once properly set, CNC machines deliver the same pieces time and time again. There is no variance to be concerned with. This is not possible with manual machining methods.

Accuracy

CNC machines are very accurate. In fact, they perform high tolerance work with minimal effort. When you need metal fabrication to .005 of an inch, you can depend on this equipment to deliver.

Time is Money

Let’s look at two examples of machining. One is manual and the other is CNC. Your product is a smooth metal cylinder with a hole bored in the middle and part of the shaft must be threaded, to make a machine part:

  • In a manual process, the machinist must first turn the cylinder. Next, he takes the piece and places it in a machine to bore the center hole. Afterwards, a machinist must perform the threading operation.
  • With a CNC process, the metal is fed into the machine. First, it automatically turns the piece to create the outer shape. Next, it is moved to a part of the machine for boring and then threading. The entire process can be done within a minute or less and can save an enormous amount of time. In fact, it may be possible to increase production four or five hundred percent.

Not Yet Ready for CNC?

Not every shop can afford to pay for CNC machinery. It can be expensive and simply not in the current budget. However, you can contact your local metal fabrication shop. They have several types of automatic machines which can give you the parts and materials you need for your business. In fact, this is a great way to add products or services to your shop with no investment.

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