When it comes to choosing a CNC machine (computer numerical control ), there are a few things you'll need to take into account in order to make sure you're getting the best possible option for your needs. In this blog post, we'll run through some of the key considerations you should keep in mind when making your decision. By the end, you should have a better understanding of what factors will influence your choice of CNC machine.
How to buy the right machine tool at the most reasonable price to consider the most critical factors? Here is a very useful checklist. Let's get started!
The expertise and proficiency of the machine operators will play a key role. You need to consider what your factory's current CNC machine setup looks like and how much experience your engineers and operators have with CNC machines.
If you already have existing machines, you should assess whether they are still fit for the purpose for which they were made, see where your current gaps lie, assess the life of your machines, and assess the cost-effectiveness of replacing your existing machines with newer, higher-performing machines.
In general, more automated smart machines require less human intervention than simple machine tools with limited functionality.
One of the biggest challenges of CNC machining is the complexity and precision of the parts to be produced.
The precision level of CNC machine tools determines the precision of the parts produced. CNC machine tools can be divided into simple type, full-function type, and precision type according to their machining accuracy. Three indicators to confirm the accuracy. The motion resolution of simple CNC machine tools is 0.01mm, while the precision of precision CNC machine tools is below 0.001mm.
Parts in the automotive, defense, aerospace or medical industries may require advanced CNC machine tools with a wide selection of spindles capable of manipulating, cutting, drilling, and forming parts with multi-axis control. Examples of these machines include 3 to 5-axis machining centers and 2 to 8-axis turning centers. They allow for one, two, or even multi-spindle (mass production) designs.
From standard jobs to highly complex jobs or mass production of complex parts, you can consider a horizontal or vertical CNC lathe with 2 to 5 axes or a CNC milling machine with 3 to 5 axes.
Yangsen has a range of horizontal machining centers to choose from:
The YSH series with a linear guide system is suitable for various applications and production needs. Available with 2 to 5 axes.
If the part is complex and needs to be done in one setup, a multi-axis turning center is a right choice.
Vertical lathes like Yangsen's YSL series are most effective for machining parts with a diameter much larger than the part's length. E.g., Gears, drums, discs, pump casings, engine casings, and rings, etc.
For the production of the fast turnaround of various parts and required machine settings in "High Mix – Small Batch" mode, Yangsen's new 5-axis machining center YS650-5AX offers an incredible solution with its ø650 mm 2-axis Table, 4+1 to full 5 axes and 4 optional spindles (option).
For the toughest materials such as titanium, Inconel, or heat-resistant stainless steel, the YS650-5AX ensures maximum stability and efficiency during simultaneous 5-axis cutting.
1. The high-speed cutting machine is used to complete a medium amount of milling, and then reduce the amount of grinding after milling to a minimum.
2. The CNC milling and machining center is processing equipment used to complete workpieces with a large amount of milling.
3. CNC engraving and milling machine is a processing equipment used to complete a small amount of milling or soft metal.
CNC machines are capable of machining almost most materials, including aluminum, copper, die or hardened steel, titanium, and Inconel.
When choosing a reliable CNC machine tool, you must first clarify your own processing requirements. The specifications and shapes of different parts vary greatly. Generally, the shape of the parts can be divided into plate type, box diamond type, flange shaft type, and special-shaped type. etc. In general, the main processing objects should be selected according to production requirements.
CNC machine tools are divided into roughing and finishing. After determining the parts to be processed, the process of the parts should be planned. When selecting CNC machine tools, their process adaptability should be exerted, and the maximum comprehensive processing ability of CNC machine tools should be exerted to ensure that the entire production process is complete. The process uses the least number of CNC machines and machining parts to maximize the variety of production parts.
The type of material being machined will affect the machine design and spindle selection, as well as the level of performance, durability, load bearing, and precision that can be achieved. The physical properties of the material and optimal cutting conditions also affect machine factors such as the required maximum spindle speed, peak spindle motor horsepower, and maximum spindle motor torque.
Next, you need to consider whether you should choose a CNC machine that uses a linear guide (LM) rail system, or a stronger, more rigid box rail design.
You need to consider four main factors here: speed, stiffness, load-carrying capacity, and tool life.
CNC machines built with LM guides tend to be faster but better suited for light-duty applications. On the other hand, machines with box rails are stronger, have less vibration, and are capable of making heavier cuts on large parts. However, these are generally slower than those with LM rails.
When choosing between the two, it's useful to ask yourself the following questions:
What is the material to be cut?
How much vibration damping is required?
What is the required cutting feed rate?
What is the expected and required tool life?
When choosing the right machine tool, you also need to match your choice with choosing the most practical CNC controller. This depends not only on the level of automation but also on the number of axes to be controlled and the manual intervention required in the production process. The semi-closed-loop numerical control system can automatically detect the position and compensate for the error. The fully closed-loop CNC system is the CNC system with the highest precision, but it is difficult to maintain and expensive.
The CNC system can control the processing and operation of CNC machine tools and can be called the core "brain" of CNC machine tools.
The open-loop CNC system is often used for CNC wire-cutting tools with low precision requirements. It does not have a position detection device and is positioned by the drive unit. It has the characteristics of low cost, simple structure, and low operation and maintenance.
In addition to choosing the best and largest screen for your CNC control, you should also consider the following important factors:
Reliability of CNC Control System
Effectiveness of Control
Software stability
User-friendliness - can you find the operators for these controls?
All CNC control systems of our CNC machines are the top 2 brands in the world. Fanuc and Siemens.
To determine this, you need to consider both fixed and variable costs:
Fixed costs: initial capital investment, machine depreciation, loan interest (if any)
Variable costs: material costs, labor costs, tool costs, tool change, maintenance and repair costs, spare parts costs
Note that choosing a cheaper machine does not necessarily guarantee you better productivity or plant profitability in the long run.
Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a CNC machine, as it affects the overall stability of the machine and its ability to handle heavier loads.
A lighter machine will be more susceptible to vibration which can lead to inaccurate cuts and poor results. Additionally, a heavier machine may require stronger motors or other components in order to handle larger workpieces or for more accurate and precise cutting. Ultimately, selecting a CNC machine that has the right weight is important to ensure optimal performance and quality results from your machining operations.
We choose the best-built iron cast from the machine body, to guarantee enough stability and rigidity.
Last but not least, you need to consider how much space you have in your shop for a new machine.
Of course, this varies by industry and may include factors such as:
Make the most of available floor space
Minimize worker movement between machines
Material flow and space from point to point
Improve productivity
Chip processing
Safety conditions for workers
Room for future expansion
Available power points, and power requirements.
Yangsen has more than 20 years of experience in machine tool manufacturing and is one of the top 20 control machine tool manufacturers in China. Our CNC machines are widely used and provide an easy way to alleviate labor shortages. Send the CAD file to the machine, press four buttons, and the machine does the rest.
CNC machines are big investments. Hope the above suggestions can help you choose the right CNC machine tool. Contact Yangsen for more information.
Tel : +86-592-6682467
WhatsApp : +86-18359729483
Email : info@cncyangsen.com
Address : No. 586-590 Shanbian Rd. Dongfu Industrial Zone Haicang Dist, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China 361027
