CNC milling, much like conventional milling, is a type of subtractive production process. This kind of production is where you start with a whole part and take away a few of it to achieve a specific design or shape. While this type of milling aims to achieve the same results as traditional milling, there are still some significant differences. The differences lie in how they operate and the milling parts. For this reason, this post will break down points on CNC milling Vs. Conventional milling.
a. Advantages of conventional milling
Below are elements that make conventional milling stand out from its counterpart;
1. Fewer complications
Conventional milling involves simple machines and processes that you can do effortlessly. This is one of the elements that make it stand out from CNC milling.
2. Less initial costs
The cost of purchasing CNC milling machines is notably higher than that of buying conventional milling machines. This is an advantage that this method still has over its counterparts. Meaning, if you invest in conventional milling, it will take less initial capital than investing in buying CNC milling machines.
b. Disadvantages of Conventional milling
Some major cons of traditional milling are;
- Lower production quantities
- The process is slow
- The costs of the entire process are high
- Increased efficiency issues
- Low-quality products
a. Advantages of CNC milling
Below are some advantages of CNC milling that make CNC milling different from its counterpart;
1. Reduced labor costs
One of the main things that make CNC milling better than its counterpart is that it offers lesser labor costs. Firstly, you do not have to hire someone to operate the machines. This is because CNC milling machines are pre-programmed to work efficiently and automatically. They are also computer-operated and independent. Most of the time, the devices only need one operator to oversee the processes when operating several machines. Additionally, CNC machining reduces the number of hours that the employees have to work. This means that you do not have to pay for a lot of working hours.
2. Higher quality results
These machines offer better accuracy and repeatability. This means that you get to produce high-quality parts with lesser work or hassle. The devices can cut specific dimensions hence making it better than traditional milling. You can also count on the better future-proofing advantages.
3. High quantity of production
CNC mills can produce the same parts over and over while still maintaining efficiency and low costs. You are also guaranteed a 100% similarity between the products. This makes it a great alternative to conventional milling.
4. Better safety
Milling is not one of the safest processes in existence. Traditional milling includes shart cutting tools that place human resources at a high risk of injuries. Since CNC milling machines run independently from human resources, they are a better option. These machines eliminate all dangers of milling.
Disadvantages of CNC milling
Like its counterpart, this type of milling also has its downsides. They are:
- High initial costs because of the high price of the machines
- Complicated functioning because of the computerization of the process
Conclusion
The information above paints a clear picture that CNC milling is the better choice of the two. This method offers more advantages and fewer risks. While these two techniques both have their downsides, you need to consider both elements when choosing an ideal technique.
