CNC Machining

CNC machining is commonplace in the current manufacturing industry. If you have come to read this, it is likely that you already know what CNC machining is, but you may want to learn more about this manufacturing process. So, keep reading as we give you more details.

Is CNC machining hard

This may be a very subjective question, so you could get many different answers depending on who you are asking. However, there are some aspects to consider before getting into a conclusion on whether the answer should be a yes or a no. Let’s go through them.

First, it is important to define the level of CNC machining that you need, since different levels take different time and effort to achieve. When asked is CNC machining hard, some experts say this:

• Basic level takes about a week if you have math and basic machining knowledge.
• Intermediate level takes about a year.
• Advanced level takes several years to master.

Another important aspect is the type of programming that you will use. There are two common approaches to CNC machining. These are:

• Manual programming – More control but more time needed. It also requires G-Code knowledge.
• Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) – the most common nowadays thanks to the most recent technological developments. It is very powerful since a computer program using a model offers you a very quick way to describe the paths for the tools and other parameters required for the most complex parts.

Finally, the type of machine will be definitive to conclude how hard CNC machining can be. It is not the same programming a simple mill work in 3 axes than one 5-axis work in a multifunctional machine.

Is CNC machining a good career

Again, many different answers can be given to the question is CNC machining a good career. Obviously, a successful CNC machinist will immediately give yes as an answer. But, what should you consider to determine if CNC machining is a good career for you?

To make an informed decision on whether CNC machining is a good career for you or not, you should consider the following:

• You don’t really need a university or college degree to get started.
• It offers long-term employability and a broad employment market.
• It is a challenging yet rewarding work.
• It is interesting work if you are into hands-on experiences with machines and manufacturing.
• You will be turning innovative ideas into reality.
• You will be producing parts for almost anything, from helicopters and ships to robotic applications and more.
• The pay isn’t bad at all.

Also, consider the fact that technology keeps moving forward, and this means the demand for quick and high-quality production such as the one provided by CNC machining will continue to grow. So, we could say there’s a bright future ahead for the CNC machining career.

Is CNC machining dangerous

Every single industrial activity involves some kind of hazard. And CNC machining is not the exception.

The most common hazards associated to working in a CNC machine shop are:

• Exposure to dust and smoke deriving from machining operations.
• Exposure to moving parts.
• Exposure to sharp objects such as sharp edges of the part before it is finished or the tools themselves.
• Slipping and falling hazards which are related to the working environment like in any industrial activity.
• Electrical shocks.
• Fire hazard.

There might be other hazards that we are not mentioning here, but you shouldn’t be scared away by them. These hazards can be dealt with according to norms and health and safety standards which allow to reduce the risks and make CNC machining a safe operation.

In other words, the answer to is CNC machining dangerous is that it will depend on the shop and your commitment to safety.

Is CNC machining profitable

As we said before, the pay for CNC machinists isn’t bad at all. The average hour rate in the United States during the year 2020 was around $19.00, and it could reach up to $22.00 which means an annual salary in the range of $41,000 to $46,000.

Now, to speak about CNC profitability, we should also see the business side of it. Some people claim that successful CNC machining shops can expect a 10% to 15% of net profit.

Of course, remember that profitability depends on many other aspects, but we could be safe by saying that CNC machining can definitely be a very profitable sector.

Is CNC machining expensive

One more time, there are different perspectives to answer the question is CNC machining expensive.

From the client point of view, the more complex the requirements and the more custom the part required is, the more expensive it will be. Simple CNC turning operations usually cost around $35 per hour, while complex operations requiring multi-axis and multi-functional CNC machining can have an hourly cost in the range of $75 to $120.

Now, from the business side, while the initial cost of a CNC machine might be high, it is important that most CNC machines provide 5,000 hours in operation. This time is used to calculate the costs together with other aspects such as:

• Tool wear and replacement costs.
• Labor costs.
• Material costs.

So, if the calculation is done properly, the return on investment (ROI) can be worthy, and it could be considered that CNC machining is not expensive.

Can I learn CNC machining online

Online learning has been around us for a while, and with the pandemic striking in 2020, it has become more of a trend to have online training programs available and people looking forward to take them.

While we mentioned that CNC machining is a hands-on activity, there are several high-quality CNC machining online programs that will teach you everything you need to know to select the type of machining required, set up the tools and of course to learn how to set the G-Code program and CAM programs to achieve your CNC machining parts.

Then, the answer to the question can I learn CNC machining online must be a resounding yes, you can.

What is CNC machining and what is it used for?

Many people think CNC machining is a specialized process for metal manufacturing. However, CNC machining is more than that, as it can make manufacturing more efficient for many different industries. Keep reading as we give you the details.