When to avoid CNC machining

When to avoid CNC machining
Our advice on when to choose CNC machining should give you a fairly good idea of when to avoid CNC machining. The limitations of the process making it less desirable in situations when complex geometries are required, or when extreme order quantities are needed. The turnaround can also be a factor: if a part is needed within a day or two, 3D printing may be the only viable option.

Materials are also a factor. In general, CNC is suited to a very wide range of materials. However, some present difficulties for a CNC machinist and should be machined only if no other options exist. For example, some ultra-hard superalloys are difficult to penetrate with a CNC cutting tool, while some very soft plastics like polyamide-imides will deform too easily.

To summarize, situations in which it is best to avoid CNC include:

• When low costs are more important than part quality

• When required quantities exceed ~1,000

• When complex geometries are required

• When a non-machinable material is required

• When parts are needed urgently