Wednesday, 21 May 2014

What to Consider when Starting a CNC Machining Business

With all the new and rising CNCMachining companies, it is advantageous for aspiring businessmen to gear themselves up with the best resources available. These resources aren’t just limited to material resources but physical and mental resources as well. Among all these, having knowledge about the business and the operations done are some of the smart steps one should possess for an efficient and hopefully successful run in the CNC machining and subcontracting business.

KNOW WHAT YOU NEED

In a business where there is CNC Machining and CNC Turning involved, a variety of tools and machines to choose from is bound to happen, depending on a lot of factors, from its sizes to its function. It is very important to study and understand the differences between them before buying one. Take note of these things because it will affect the business and its production for a long time.

There are different types of machines that one should be aware of, not only do they differ in their functions but in their operations as well. These different machines have different models that have their own specs and features, designed for their own use. Aside from these types of machines, the parts needed for every machine offers a wide array of choices too. Every part is as important as the other since it contributes to the function of the machine. Being sure of what one wants to achieve in the business is a good start, knowing means having a direction for the business in the long run.

CHOOSE QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

Quality must always be taken first before quantity. CNC machines are able to work quickly and precisely, they were built to move fast to meet deadlines and quotas for the client. This is the main reason why it is better to have a few efficient machines than numerous but fragile ones. Having a couple of machines that perform well is enough to provide a good run for the business rather than having many machines that breaks down all the time.

The “quality over quantity” idea applies not only to the machines but to the projects and clients that the business will accept. Having few, quality and remarkable outputs are better than having ten or more below average outputs. The final products will give the business an image that solely depends on the business’ performance and quality of outputs.

LEARN AND PRACTICE

Whether the person is the general manager or the maintenance guy, one must know how to operate the machines, even if it is just the basic. It is ideal that one study and practice using the machine, not only will it develop one’s ability to operate the machines but it will also gain the trust and confidence of their co-workers. In order to lead the team efficiently and productively, the leader himself must be knowledgeable, both off and on hands, of the process of the operation.

Learning the basics is not enough, it is recommended to keep practising in order to hone one’s skill and avoid mistakes in the future. Practising will improve one’s skill and lessen the working time as well. With a complex process involved, consistent use of the machine will lead to a skilled team in the future.

ASK THE RIGHT PEOPLE

It may seem easy and simple but the truth is that it is not. Asking people is easy but asking the right people is challenging and rewarding as well. In almost every business or every practice, someone will always be better than the other, this is a fact. Ask the right people every question that needs an answer for it will help the business and its people. Ask them for tips and recommendations on how to efficiently use the resources that one have. These simple suggestions will be helpful for the success of the business. Not only does one save time and money, they also get acquainted with other people in the same line of work.

These are just some of the things to consider when starting a CNC Machining business. Though simple, these considerations shouldn’t be taken lightly as they will greatly affect the business. There are plenty more to learn, those that will only be learned through experience.


Wednesday, 14 May 2014

About CNC Machining

CNC machining allows anyone with the right knowledge and skills to manufacture virtually any object, through the use of computers and advanced programs that control highly precise machining tools. They see heavy use in the manufacturing sector, thanks to their accuracy, speed and efficiency compared to human effort.


Benefits of CNC machining
  • Fast – After an object has been designed, it can be created by the machine without the delays caused by slower human movement.
  • Durable – CNC machines are built to last; only requiring maintenance every now and then.
  • Precise – No matter how small or large the object, CNC machines can fabricate it with minimal errors or mistakes. Thanks to their precision, some objects are only possible because of CNC machines.
  • Versatile – Several tools can be connected to CNCs, allowing the machine to control them. They can also perform a variety of machining techniques.
How CNC machining works
The main component in CNC machining is the CNC or Computer Numerical Control, which is composed of a computer and a specialised CNC program. Together, they’re the brains behind the whole outfit but it still requires a skilled CNC machinist, someone who is familiar with the software and the machine tools attached to the CNC.

To illustrate the difficulty of CNC machining, the machinist has to use the software to create precise designs of their project and adjust settings for the tools such as speed, feed rate and location. Afterwards, they have to create a prototype to check for errors or defects. In exchange for the added complexity, CNC machines can produce components rapidly and accurately, without any human input if the prototype has passed quality control.

What kind of machining tools can be attached to the CNC?
Many machining tools have been adapted to be compatible with CNC software; here are some examples of these tools:
  • Routers
  • Grinders
  • Mills
  • Drill press