Here is A Complete Guide to CNC Milling Cost
Since the early 1800s, milling has been a popular industrial technique to many. The downside was that this technique required a lot of labor.
This, however changed with the invention of CNC (computer numerical control). Its technology is error-free, and as a bonus, it has improved speed operations.
It sounds like a promising technology to invest in, right?
But just like any other investment, the major question that may linger is how much it will cost.
Continue reading to find out the cost of investing in this modern technology. But first, let’s understand what a CNC milling is.
What CNC Milling Machine?
CNC milling machine is a subtractive manufacturing technology. This means you program the system to remove materials from a workpiece.
The system cuts and drills with precision, leaving no room for error.CNC milling machine is compatible with various materials like plastic, wood, titanium, etc.
This is why it is the most preferred machine in industries like aerospace, mechanical, electrical, defence, and more.
And since there is little to no human intervention using this machine helps promote the safety of your workers.
Most industries could easily benefit from this technology. However, there are factors that affect the pricing of these machines. They include;
Factors Determining Cost of CNC Milling
Universal CNC Milling Machine
1. Number of Axes In The Machine
The number of axes a CNC machine has dictates the type of parts it can create.If you choose to use a machine with a 5-axis, you are likely to pay more than the one using a 3-axis.
2. Material
As stated earlier, CNC milling machines allow industries to mill a variety of materials.It is good to understand that the type of material you are milling will significantly affect the cost.
Milling materials like titanium or steel can be hard, which may require more money than milling materials like plastic or wood.
3. Size of The Machine
If you need to mill large parts of materials, you are likely to use a big machine. And if the components are small a smaller machine will do.Note that the size you choose to use will greatly affect the cost.
4. Labor
The pros of using a CNC machine is that it usually requires little human intervention.Cases where you may need help from your staff are when you need to change the tools or need to set up the workpiece.
If the part you use is difficult and requires high-level expertise, the production cost may be higher.
5. Industry Regulations
Industries like aerospace and medicine tend to have strict regulations. If you are in either of these industries, you may need more paperwork validation.This, in turn, will increase the overall cost.
6. Type of CNC Milling Machine
There are various kinds of CNC milling machines available in the market. They include C-shape, bed, gantry-mills and box.All these types come in different price ranges.
If you do not intend to pay much choose a CNC machine that will create a simple geometric design.
4 Axis CNC Milling Machine
7. Type of Surface Finishing
You may incur more if the part you want milled requires a specific finish.Some of the finishing you can request are chrome plating, sandblasting, anodizing and more.
Keeping these factors in mind will come in handy when you choose to use this technology. But the good news is that there are tips you can use to help reduce the milling process cost. Read on to find out.
How to Reduce the Cost of CNC Milling Process
It’s every company’s dream to produce high-quality products while maintaining a low cost.In this section, you’ll get insights on how to reduce the milling process cost without compromising on the quality.
· Type of Material
As you know, tough materials like titanium cause higher machining costs than materials like aluminium.This is why it is important to extensively search the materials you’ll use.
Also, make sure to consider the machinability of the material. This is because this factor determines how easy or hard the process will be.
If you end up choosing a material with a higher machining time, you’ll have higher hourly rates.
· Use Simple Designs
Make sure to choose simple designs. This will help you use less time on the machine, which in turn will lower the cost.
For example, avoid designs that may require the use of a 5-axis CNC machine and only use it when necessary.
· Increase the Production Value
As we all know, the more you produce, the lower the cost will be. And the same principle applies in 3 axis CNC milling.
The milling process reduces because all variabilities involved remain the same.Simply put, variables like CAD design or the machine setup settings will be constant throughout the whole process.
· Only Use Precisions That You Need
Note that with each level of precision involved, you may require more experienced personnel and specialized tools.
If your part can function without the highest type of precision, then do that. Doing so will save you a lot of effort, time and cost.
· Use Standard Sizes
It is wise to stick to normal sizes and tolerances. If you choose to use custom ones, you will end up incurring high costs.
Also, keep in mind that using standard sizes saves time as they are usually readily available.
· Reduce Material Waste
Make the best use of every part layout in your material.Not only will reducing the waste save you money, but it will also contribute to great environmental practices.
To achieve this, make sure to consult a professional to guide you on how to minimize waste.
· Avoid the Use of Excessively Thin Walls
Thin walls are fragile and often need a few low-depth passes, which helps lower errors. Although it takes a lot of time to manufacture them.
It is hard machining extremely thin walls as they usually vibrate, making it challenging to set them to a specific tolerance.This, in turn, increases the machine’s time, which consequently increases the cost.
· Use Standard Tolerances
Tight tolerances tend to take up a lot of machining time which in turn makes it costly.It is usually challenging to achieve the tight tolerance since it develops burrs. And removing these burrs requires extra inspection. Often, this inspection gets done manually.
In turn, you’ll use a lot of time and the labor cost will also go up. To avoid this, only specify the tolerances when necessary. Now that you know the tips let’s get right on in understanding the average cost of CNC milling.
Average Cost of CNC Milling Machine
The cost of a CNC milling machine greatly varies due to the factors discussed in the article. So often, the company will ask you about your requirements before issuing the quote.
However, standard variables may help you know the average cost you may incur in the project.One of them is the hourly rate and the type of axis you choose to use.
CNC Programming Hourly Rate
3-axis $40/hr
4-axis $45-50/hr
5-axis $75-120/hr
Note that this cost only involves labor and not the cost of running the machine.
Conclusion
Understanding these factors will be great guidance when starting your CNC project.Although for some it can be challenging to analyze these factors and use them to reduce costs.
That’s where TSINFA CNC Equipment comes in. We at are a reliable CNC machining company that can help you make the best decision for your business.
We understand the importance of investing in CNC machines, and we assure you that all your needs will be met. Contact us today and get a quote.
More Resources:
Milling Machines – Source: TSINFA
Dynamic Milling – Source: TSINFA
What is Milling – Source: XOMETRY
Horizontal vs. Vertical Milling – Source: TSINFA
Climb Milling vs. Conventional Milling – Source: TNSIFA
