Why Manual Machining Is Still Sometimes Used In CNC Machining Shops

22 April 2021
Categories: Industrial & Manufacturing, Blog

If you know even a little bit about machining, you probably know that CNC machining is considered the standard nowadays. After all, CNC machining takes advantage of modern technology to make it possible for machining jobs to be done more quickly, accurately, precisely, and safely. However, even though CNC machining does have many benefits over manual machining, there are still quite a few machining shops that take advantage of both types of machining. It might not make sense why right now, but these points can help you understand why.

The Equipment Is Often Cheaper

First of all, CNC machinery is often much more expensive than the machinery that is used for manual machinery. Of course, in many shops, people find that the extra expense is worth it in the long run. However, many shops still operate on a budget, and many shops do purchase CNC machinery but still keep their old manual machinery around, too. After all, it can take a while for some companies to be able to purchase multiple CNC machines so that they can keep up with all of the work in their shops. If their manual equipment is still in good, working condition, they might keep it and continue using it on a day-to-day basis in the meantime.

CNC Machines Are Sometimes Reserved for Other Jobs

In some shops, the CNC machines are only used for specific jobs. To keep the CNC machines open for when they are needed for these more complex jobs, many shops and the technicians who work there use the manual machinery when they are working on other types of jobs. Then, when a more complex job has to be done, there is a greater chance of there being a CNC machine available.

Turnaround Times Are Sometimes Faster

Overall, CNC machines often make it possible to do complex and precise jobs a lot more quickly. However, it's not always true that CNC machining is faster. If someone just needs to make a simple cut or handle another quick and easy task, they might actually find that they can get the job done more quickly with manual machining. This is because they don't have to worry about entering anything into a computer or taking other steps before they can get started. Many people who are experienced with both CNC machining and manual machining have their preferences about which machines to use for which jobs.

For more information about manual machining and CNC machining, contact a local machining service.

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