Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) woodworking machinery was created in the 1970s, a time when most equipment required the frequent assistance of a machinist. By making it possible to control a machine using a computer, CNC technology made woodworking machinery more efficient, and allowed companies to staff fewer machinists.
CNC products offer several financial and technical benefits to companies and independent workers. If you are considering an investment in CNC technology, but would like more information about its benefits and capabilities before you do, the answers below can help:
How many CNC machines can one person operate?
The number of machines that one person can operate depends on the production environment. An environment where numerous designs are produced in short production runs requires more operators than an environment where a few designs are produced in long production runs. In the latter case, one person can simultaneously oversee several stations.
What degree of cutting accuracy does CNC technology offer?
The cutting accuracy of a machine depends on its construction grade. Hobby grade models have a cutting accuracy of roughly .010 inches, whereas industrial grade models have a cutting accuracy of less than .001 inches. If you need CNC woodworking equipment to produce highly intricate designs, investing in an industrial grade model makes the most sense.
How do axes affect cutting capacity?
An axis refers to a linear or circular cutting motion that is made by the cutting mechanism. The more axes a machine contains, the more cutting capacity it has for the types of cuts it can make.
What are the financial benefits of using CNC equipment?
It can help companies reduce payroll by staffing fewer machinists. It can also reduce the cost of the production process by reducing human error, as well as improve revenue potential by increasing production capacity.
A CNC machine can require a significant investment, but the financial benefits it offers can compensate for the investment.
How easy is it to program CNC products?
With the help of a Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) system, CNC products are easy to program. A CAM system is a software program that translates the description of an operation into programming instructions. The operator enters the name of the operation into the CAM system, and the system produces programming instructions.
What is the average lifespan of an industrial CNC machine?
The average lifespan of a machine depends on three factors—the design of the machine, how it is used, and the level of maintenance it receives. A well-designed and maintained industrial grade machine that is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions can last for decades.
RT Machine Sells CNC Products
For over a decade, RT Machine has supplied new and used CNC woodworking equipment to companies and independent workers. In addition to carrying a broad inventory of CNC products, we also have a machine locator service that can find woodworking equipment we do not have in stock. To learn more about our products and services, browse through our website, or call us today.
