When people think of CNC machining, they assume it involves a large fabrication machine with a significant footprint, the size of a medium room. There has to be space for the work unit, the power system, and the computer to drive the CNC machine. The larger the parts that the CNC machine needs to create, the larger the mechanism tends to be. So, it’s no surprise that the assumption of dimensions has created a myth of large fabrication systems. In reality, small CNC machines are just as viable, especially for small part fabrication.
First, small CNC machines take advantage of their physical footprint and make it possible to use them in tighter, more confined operations. They have the same control features of computer-managed systems, and they handle the gap created by large machines with big runs incapable of dealing with smaller orders for subcomponents or small inventory. Third, for the ordinary workshop that doesn’t need a massive scaleup but can significantly benefit from some technological improvement in fabrication capability, small CNC machines are an ideal addition to the toolkit on-hand.
Enhanced Precision
Large machines, even with expanded multiple-axle applications, can only provide accuracy and detail to a specific level. Below that, the work becomes substandard or not physically possible. This is where the small CNC machine for metal shines, capable of handling finesse jobs with delicate detail, doing so safely and in an agile manner as well. These compact units give a very solid challenge to even the best of human artisans, and, in fact, many times perform better. The alternative has been for repair technicians and crafters to use hand handheld mini-routers and similar grinding tools, but this still leaves room for errors that can affect performance. Instead, accuracy of change can be achieved down to the microscopic level versus having to rely on the naked eye for evaluation during modification.
Easy Maintenance
Mini and small CNC machines are extremely easy to use and keep in operating condition. There’s no need for a graduate course in mechanical engineering, but that person might end up crafting a rocket to the moon with some of the capabilities of the setups available. Most users are up and running with the given equipment within a few hours of instruction, tutorials, and video-watching, all of which are easily available and accessible for all types of operating budgets.
Cost-Effective and Budget Sensitive
A key advantage of a small CNC machine used periodically is that it doesn’t require a significant capital investment. Many top of the line, quality machine systems can be acquired at a tenth of the cost of a full-size regular CNC machine, in addition to the cost avoidance of not needing to set up a special facility space for a large footprint as well. These smaller units are ideal for workshops that have infrequent job needs or small inventory runs for their regular manufacturing processes.
Extensive Flexibility
Whether its routing, carving, grinding, welding, or cutting, a small CNC machine for metal can do it all. Granted, it won’t be handling part fabrications the size of a car fender, but the wide range of products that can be made with one of these units is extensive. That includes everything from spot fabrication for broken part replacements to unique and custom-made parts for new assembly creations, prototypes, emergency repairs and more. Small CNC machines have been applied to projects involving everything from firearm manufacturing to house furniture and appliances. They are step-up to an industrial level with metals for crafters who have a solid business base already and want to move into greater fabrication capabilities. And finally, small CNC machines are far more portable than their larger cousins, which means that they can be moved with far less effort and resource demand when necessary.
Small and micro businesses can use small CNC machines to work out of garages and large sheds, while more established companies can compact a small CNC machine into an existing workshop without sacrificing large space for their other equipment already present.
Testing and Research
A key aspect in manufacturing research is prototype building. However, these efforts on normal CNC machines end up creating a lot of waste, cost for set up and job run, and the output may end up having to be redone all over again if there’s a mistake or bad spec in the design. Doing that a couple of times can run up a serious budget cost. With a small CNC machine, however, a prototype can be built with minimal expense, even just for a single unit run. Additionally, the system can be switched out for multiple parts without significant effort and outlay, and waste is kept to a minimum. No wonder small CNC machines for metalwork are a godsend for prototyping new designs in real-time builds.
Whenever a new technology becomes an option, it’s always a good idea to compare notes with someone who’s been in the CNC business and has worked with different machine types and scales. Evden Enterprises carries small CNC machines for metal as well as uses them for smaller job orders and specific client fabrications, and our specialists are more than interested in helping explain how these flexible units can be an advantage for workshops and one-off orders. Call us to find out more!