Reasons to Bring CNC Automation to your Shop

Innovation is the driving force that keeps an industry thriving. In the modern manufacturing industry, the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) automation has been recognized as essential. The CNC machine utilizes a computer-driven tool which in turn, produces parts/outputs based on the designs uploaded through a Computer Aided Design (CAD) file and is translated by the Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software (Examples of this software are SolidWorks and MasterCAM). With the instruction written in G-code, the machine interprets it and moves the tools based on the uploaded data to produce the supposed design.
Precise, quality, and fast paced production are observed by the manufacturing organizations that adapted the CNC automation in the production of their products. The automation ensures that all products are made accurately and timely aligning with the target quantity and time frame set by the organization (+ less stress for the Production Manager). With benefits ranging from Customer Satisfaction to Positive financial status to Easier and Employee Safe working environment, highlighted below are five (5) major reasons why CNC automation should be adapted by your shop:

• Product Precision and Accuracy – The machine is capable of producing uniformed and accurate parts based on the uploaded design. Regardless of the intricacy of the design meant for the item, the machine can manufacture and take in consideration even the most minor detail. Reputed for the ability to produce a precise and quality output – this reduces waste, decreases errors, and efficiently delivers making both internal and external customers happy.
• Timely Production – With the capacity to work 24/7 and unmanned, the machine can produce items non-stop assuring that it achieves the supposed target for the production. Regardless of the non-stop production, the product quality remains unaffected in contrast to Manual manufacturing. Other than the occasional troubleshooting and routine maintenance, the machine is able to work 365 days a year, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day – without rest – and produce a quality and accurate product whilst reducing waste by efficiently using the materials provided.
• Reduced Capital, Operational, and Labour Cost – Minimizing the need of human intervention in production, the operation cost directed to human labour decreases as the number of work that the machine can perform outnumbers its human counterpart. Due to its simplicity, a single skilled operator can manage multiple machines simultaneously.
  With the machine in nonstop motion, the operation produces higher volumes, increased profits, and operates with less expense. Since it can produce items in an accurate and timely manner, the need to produce over-sized batches is scrapped and minimizes the capital needed for the production.
• Safer Workplace Environment – CNC automated machines can completely function on its own, except when uploading product designs & instructions and occasional troubleshooting & maintenance. Since the machine performs all the handyman’s’ work, it lessens the possibility of dealing with manufacturing risks related to handling materials – such as risky and toxic materials, extreme temperatures, and other factors that could cause injury or harm (plus, low risk in human-related error).
  On a positive note, the adaptation of CNC automation on your machines could lift pressure and lessen stress for the Production Manager (and organization) ensuring a happier and more productive working environment.
• Flexibility + Quick Changeover – Note that CNC automated machines run and operate based on the uploaded instructions. The products generated are based on the designs uploaded through the Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software. Considering that, shifting from one design to another is made easier – load the programs then set up and run (Perfect for the fast-paced production environment!). It was mentioned beforehand that CNC automated machines are able to perform on their own, without rest, once the operator nominates a program for the machine to perform. Given this, it simplifies their workloads and allows the operator to perform other tasks.

These reasons are just the tip of the iceberg yet important to consider when opting to adapt the CNC automated machines in your shop. The only downside to this is high-upfront cost. However, the benefits reaped overtime is highly beneficial for the financial, operational, and internal & external customers.