CNC machining is one of the most common types of conventional manufacturing technology generally associated with the machining of metals. CNC produces parts with high precision with applications across the industrial spectrum. Plastic materials are also CNC machined to produce high-quality parts. Design complexity increases the need for high precision, complex set-up preparation and programming etc. Here we are going to talk about the factors governing the cost of CNC machined parts.

There are no set of rules that can be applied to determine the cost of CNC, hence, it is important to understand the cost drivers which is key to many projects. Design, material, hardness, surface finish, equipment, production volume are a few of the important factors affecting the cost.

Tips to reduce the CNC machining cost

Design

Design and geometric complexity significantly affect the cost of CNC. Design complexity is directly proportional to the cost of CNC. Complex designs may need extra setup, programming time and special machine equipment, also, detailed inspection procedures. Certain design aspects that increase the cost of CNC like deep cavities, very high surface finish, thin walls are a few of the factors affecting the cost. Design aspects affecting the cost negatively should be avoided unless necessary or must be there. High surface quality and tight tolerance also add up to the cost.

Material Selection

Material selection is one of the most important cost drivers of CNC. The cost of material procured depends upon the type of material selected. For example, aluminum is costs less while titanium costs are much higher. Another important aspect of material selection is machinability. Hard to machine materials takes extra preparations, longer set-up times and consume more resources like extra fluids, power, and special cutting tools. The cost of a machined part is directly proportional to the time it takes to machine it.