Leading provider of rapid prototyping and low volume manufacturing services, ProtoLabs has extended its CNC machining capabilities to widen the scope of product development for customers.
What is the new CNC machining offer from ProtoLabs?
The global CNC machining service requires users to upload their CAD file onto an online platform where they will have access to a large diversity of suppliers. The idea is to provide customers with a wide variety of product development opportunities,? more keenly meet their product/part design needs, and allow them to continue being innovative.?
With so many suppliers to choose from on the ProtoLabs portal, the greater the opportunity to meet more specific requirements. Users will have access to more bespoke product finishes, higher tolerances producing more complex and accurate features, and larger sizes (from 0.5mm to 1,000mm) through the new online facility.?
What is CNC machining??
Standing for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) the machinery is operated with pre-programmed software design by engineers. The process works by gradually removing material from a workpiece. An extensive range of tools are used in different CNC machining processes.?
The different tools range from lathes, turning mills, routers, grinders and cutters which are used on either CNC milling or CNC turning machines. The key difference between the two CNC machining methods is that in the turning process, the workpiece moves to form its final shape, while in milling, it is the tools that move around the object to form the desired shape.
Why CNC machining??
CNC machining is one of the most popular forms of advanced manufacturing. It is able to produce parts, products and components quickly and accurately, and although a form of subtractive manufacturing, it generates minimal waste. Companies are attracted chiefly to its ability to quickly assemble parts ? a highly useful capability in an on-demand driven economy. ?
Advantages of CNC machining
Many companies opt for CNC machining as their preferred choice of advanced manufacturing.?
- Thanks to CNC machinery’s automated nature, there is a reduced risk of human error. This results in less waste and often reduced cost.?
- CNC machining works well for rapid prototyping. A batch of products may be produced using the technology to check for faults or to create a sample.? Some parts may be produced in as little as one day.?
- CNC machining may be used with a wide range of different materials and can therefore be used across a multitude of industries?
- The equipment can also be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week, meaning volume and production are maximised.?
- CNC tools and machinery do not need lots of maintenance, making them potentially more cost-effective by lowering machine and operations downtime and improving productivity.
- The CNC systems also work for low volume production when companies want to test a small number of products on the market before committing to full scale production.?
- For high volume production that requires precision, repeatability and accuracy CNC machinery is usually critical to the operations.?
Conclusion?
CNC is an important manufacturing technology, crucial in the production of parts in industries such as defence, automotive, marine and oil and gas, and offering an extensive range of solutions for electronics, medical devices, and consumer businesses. As more and more consumers grow to expect highly customised products designed and delivered quickly, more big industries have realised CNC machining’s precision capabilities and the technology has become even more important in manufacturing.
Companies everywhere have new concepts and designs they want to transform into real life, but do not have the time or resources. ProtoLab’s online portal provides them instant access to every option available, pathing the way for continued innovation.?
