Thanks to their ability automate machining processes and make them highly repeatable, CNC mills have helped to significantly reduce manufacturing costs in a wide variety of industries. That said, there are additional steps machine shops can take to reduce their CNC machining costs even further.
Today we’ll consider a few tips to help companies cut their CNC manufacturing costs and increase their profit margins.
Stay Away From Sharp Edges
Because CNC end mills are cylindrical in shape, it can be difficult (and expensive) to create sharp edges and precise 90-degree corners. Instead, make the radius of each corner as wide as possible, since larger tools can remove material more efficiently. If you need sharp edges for your product’s design, include an undercut at each corner so it can be more easily accessed by the end mill.
Choose the Right Material
You might think that you should always use the hardest available materials, such as stainless steel, but think again. These materials are expensive to machine because they are more difficult to manipulate. Consider turning to other materials, such as aluminum, which is typically the least expensive metal to use in CNC manufacturing.
Avoid Thin Walls and Features
Thin walls and features are more prone to breakage, which will inevitably drive up manufacturing costs. If your product design allows it, keep walls and features at least 0.02 inches thick.
Break Your Design Into Parts
It can often be less expensive to manufacture several discrete parts that fit together rather than milling a product out of a single block of material.
At CNC Masters, we’re proud to offer high-quality CNC mills and turning centers at prices our customers can afford. To learn more, feel free to give us a call at (626) 962-9300 or contact us online today!