Understanding the costs behind CNC machining will help you find various tips for minimizing CNC production costs.
3 major factors affecting the cost of CNC machined parts
You may wonder why part A is so much more expensive than part B, but part B is actually smaller than part A? In the machining industry, CNC machined parts are priced differently, like most products, it does not only depend on the size.
The price of manufacturing CNC machined parts is usually a combination of different factors that can be summarized into three main factors: part complexity, functional requirements and used materials.
1. Part complexity
Some machined parts have geometries and features that are difficult to realize and require special tools and extensive programming to be made. According to experience, the more complex the part, the higher its price.
Complex parts are difficult to realize because they require unconventional measures such as longer machining times, higher skilled operators, multiple machining processes, and special tooling, all of these require operating costs.
2. Size and finish requirements
Part labeling (such as dimensional constraints, functional controls and finish requirements) can seriously affect the price of a CNC machined part. This is because parts with tight tolerances will require the manufacturer to perform a series of more intensive machining operations to ensure compliance in setting up the part as required. In other words, the manufacturer will require additional machining processes and stringent inspections, which require special gauges and skilled operators.
3. Used materials
The materials required for parts can affect the machining price in a variety of ways, and these factors include:
Machining large parts will require the use of expensive tools, special fixtures and extra effort. This is why machining large parts can be more difficult and usually takes longer to machine than smaller parts.
The machinability of the material also has an impact, as materials with high machinability are very easy to cut and cost less.
Now you know the main factors that affect machining costs, let us provide you with 7 practical tips to minimize the cost of manufacturing custom CNC machined parts.
7 tips to save costs on CNC machining
1. Choose materials wisely
Materials are selected based on the application of the part. Remember to choose materials with high machinability. Hard materials (e.g. steel, titanium or other high-temperature alloys) are used only when the mechanical properties are required.
2. Simplify part design
Simplify the parts as much as possible and focus on designs that make practical sense. To minimize machining time, tool utilization, and machining processes, do not overcomplicate part features. Please note that the price of parts rises with the complexity of machining.
3. Avoid tight tolerances if possible
Parts with tighter tolerances are difficult to manufacture and expensive. Dimensions are usually controlled only when critical to the overall function of the part. A great tip we can offer is to design parts with a common reference point or datum, which will help both you and the machinist.
4. Split complex parts
If there is an unavoidable need for complexity, one of the complex parts can be converted into a modular component. Splitting a complete part into several components to be assembled will make machining easier and simpler. It significantly reduces lead times and machining operations, which is a strategy commonly used by designers to improve the manufacturability of parts and reduce their manufacturing costs.
5. Adopt universal standards
When manufacturing CNC parts, make sure that part features (such as holes, profiles, slots and threads) can be made using standard tools that are normally available. Customizing hole and thread sizes will require special tools, which can be very expensive, and we recommend using special sizes only when needed.
6. Avoid thin walls and deep cavities in part design
Thin walls and deep cavities are difficult to achieve by machining and they usually tend to have dimensional errors. These features often cause parts to vibrate and sometimes even cause scraps.
7. Plan machining operations smartly
Minimize machine operations, the more operations, the more setup and machining time.
Summary
In order to minimize the costs of producing CNC machined parts, you should always consider all possibilities in the machining of your parts.
This may be a little difficult for you, but we, CYCO, are experts in CNC machining and you can trust us completely. We will consider your needs as our mission.
In order to avoid wasting your valuable time, you can choose CYCO as your partner without any hesitation!
Work with us for a worry-free experience now!
