Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) woodworking equipment is facilitated with a Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software that will control the machine, like a CNC router. A CAD module would send the instructions to the machine to control it. CNC equipments are meant to increase operations especially in the manufacturing industry.
Since it is intended for the manufacturing industry, it is costly. However, there are smaller sized CNC machines and systems which cost lower like the do-it-yourself CNC router kits. This just signifies that woodworkers, whether they are hobbyists or small scale businessmen, are seeing the benefits of CNC woodworking machines.
Why are CNC machines appealing? Here are several benefits of CNC technology.
Mechanization of the processes
Since the manual manufacturing process is replaced with automation, little supervision is needed from the operator. This would allow the operator to attend to other tasks. Mechanized processes would reduce product mistakes which are caused by human error brought about by fatigue or lack of skill.
It is also easier to change designs, since the computer program just needs to be replaced. It would not take too much time to be set-up, thus, making production time faster. These machines can be used for the entire day and year, it just needs to be undergo occasional maintenance. It could also help in simplifying the manufacturing line and lessening employees of their heavy workloads.
Accuracy and precision
What is great with CNC machines is that they are able to repeat accurate results even though they have to reproduce a lot of work pieces. CNC machines have an accuracy rate of 2-4 thousandths of an inch, nowadays. This means that it is easy for these machines to replicate or reproduce 10,000 work pieces.
Compared with manually done pieces, there are minor variations among the finished products. While the CNC finished work pieces are almost the same.
Simplicity
Although, they may look complicated, CNC machines are easy to operate and learn. There are machine controls which make manufacturing processes easy. The operator could learn how to operate the CNC machine with a virtual software. This software is just like a virtual game, allowing the operator to practice.
Flexibility
Not only could they change the designs of the machines, CNC machines like the milling machines could also perform different operations like drilling and cutting. CNC machines could adapt easily to different materials. Flexibility could also mean that CNC machines are quick to reprogram to create new products. They could easily shift from one product to another.
Although there are major advantages of using CNC machines, it is not that perfect. They also have limitations. Major limitation would be the cost. Woodworkers, whether they are hobbyists or professionals, would cost a major factor in updating their manufacturing systems. Repair could also be expensive. Even if CNC machines avoid man-made mistakes, it does not mean that they are completely perfect. Errors and problems could still happen.
Even if there are disadvantages, it is clear that the benefits are still greater than the downside. Using CNC woodworking equipment could help improve production and increase sales. Aside from that, it could also boost customer satisfaction, making both hobbyists, businessmen, workers and customers happy and content.
