Before the start of the project, is calculated how much will be the CNC machine is calculated. While manufacturing the parts with the CNC machining process, one should try to minimize the machining cost.
There are some fixed requirements from the client that can’t be modified, but still, there are different methods to reduce the machining cost as follows:
- Increase Batch Production
The more pieces you produce, the cheaper the cost of CNC machining will be. Before you start production, plan your schedule to minimize downtime and also use CNC programming to make bulk production easier. If you need repeat orders, work with a CNC machine shop that offers volume discounts. - Be Wise in Material Selection
In order to reduce the cost of the product, special attention should be paid to the selection of materials. Materials with good mechanical properties will have lower processing costs. Keeping in mind the function of the product, you must choose the best available material that is easy to process. There is a difference in price between plastic and metal materials. Of course, you can follow the needs of your project and let your manufacturer give you more advice on material selection. - Use the Right Type of CNC Machine
To ensure you get the best results, you should use a machine that can effectively handle your material and give you high-quality parts. For instance, a standard 3-axis machine may be cost-effective, but it does not match the versatility of a 5-axis machine. There are different types of CNC machines that can easily fit your budget and preferences. - Reduce Machining Time and Tool Wear
The longer a part stays on a machine, the higher the machining price is likely to be. So, the goal is to reduce the machining time without producing a substandard part. You can achieve this by prioritizing CNC programming; use the right tools, and you’re good to go. If possible, you can forego unnecessary surface finishes. - Design Optimization
If some features of the product don’t affect the functionality, the design should be optimized to avoid machining those features, which will reduce the production cost.
5.1 Consider Hole Sizes and Profiles
When fabricating your CNC parts, you should ensure that your part features (e.g., holes, contours, slots, threads, etc.) can be made with standard toolings commonly available. Custom hole and thread sizes will need special tools, which can be quite expensive. There are many references about standard sizes used in the machining industry available on the internet.
5.2 Avoid Thin Walls and Deep Cavities
Thin-walled parts and deep cavities are very challenging to achieve through machining, and they are usually prone to dimensional inaccuracies. These parts’ features tend to cause vibration on the part and sometimes lead to the scrapping of parts.
5.3 Avoid Requiring Very Tight Tolerances
Parts with tighter tolerances are significantly harder to achieve, hence making them expensive. Only control a dimension if it is essential to the part’s overall functionality. One great piece of advice we can give you is to design your part to have one common reference point or datum. This will both help you and the machinist. First, you, to minimize the dimensional controls you need to put on a part, and second, the machinist, to lessen the inspection time, which also reduces costs.
5.4 Convert One Piece of a Complicated Part into Modular Components Instead
When one part gets too complex, it is advisable to split the whole part into multiple components to be assembled. This will make machining much easier and simpler. It significantly reduces set-up time, lessens machining operations, and optimizes machining time. This is a strategy commonly used by designers to promote a part’s manufacturability and lessen its fabrication cost.f
- Consider CNC Machining Outsourcing
If you’re a small business owner who cannot produce parts on your own, CNC machining outsourcing can be a cost-effective solution for you. There are several CNC machine shops with the equipment and expertise to handle your production. Compare the prices of different suppliers to ensure you get the best balance of price and quality.