The Benefits of CNC Machining

CNC machining is taking the commercial machining and industrial fabrication field by storm. We at BSM North America are proud advocates for this innovation, and we’ve readily adapted to using it in our workplace. However, we also know that understanding this type of craftsmanship and what it does for the final product can be a little confusing – anything titled with an acronym tends to be!

Thus, for the benefit of potential and current clients, we’ve put together a primer on this machining method below.

What Is CNC Machining?

To fully comprehend what it does for your final products, you of course have to know what CNC machining is first.

CNC stands for “Computer Numerical Control;” it refers to a process in which a worker uses computer software, often called numerical control programs, to control a machine’s movement and actions.

This is in stark opposition to more traditional industrial fabrication and commercial machining processes, in which a worker controls a machine more directly with their hands.

CNC machining is a wide-reaching concept; it speaks more to how a machine is operated and less about what that machine is. According to Goodwin University, which provides training programs on how to become a CNC technician, “CNC machining controls a range of complex machinery, such as grinders, lathes, and turning mills, all of which are used to cut, shape, and create different parts and prototypes.”

The wide reach of this concept is great for you, the client; it means you can reap all the benefits we discuss below at multiple stages of your project.

How Does CNC Machining Make for a Better Product?

Quite a few ways, in fact! Because it makes the job easier for workers, you as the client reap the resulting benefits.

CNC Machining Improves Worker Safety

Old-style, by-hand machining is dangerous; there’s simply no working around it. Anything from the machines themselves to the chemicals used to cool them can cause serious injury even among the most skilled of tradesmen. Accidents can and do happen.

With CNC machining in the picture, though, the worker is free to keep their distance and is often shielded behind a sheet of glass, far away from any pointy or toxic parts of the process. Far less risk is involved, which means that the client receives a turnaround that’s less encumbered with time spent mitigating them.

CNC Machining Makes the Job Go Faster

Computers don’t need supervision aside from checking for errors, and the tools they control no longer need multiple people to operate them. This means that a single employee can run multiple processes at once, leading to products completed more quickly for you.

CNC Machining Eliminates Human Error

Even talented machinists are human and thus make mistakes—but not with CNC machining on their side! Because the machinery and software both reduces the need for test-runs and helps a worker to visualize what a completed tool pass will look like, clients receive top-quality work, on time and every time.

CNC Machining Enables the Creation of More Complex Projects

When making custom steering columns—or doing anything via commercial machining, really—precision is of the utmost importance. Even a millimeter of error can have disastrous consequences for the future vehicle operator, or at the very least make for a finicky machine that’s constantly crying out for repairs.

When the off-road steering column-creation process gets complicated, it can get tricky to replicate an exact product over and over again, even if your team is driven and skilled. Humans, as we’ve written above, aren’t robots—but a CNC-run machine is! These machines can be much more precise than any worker, and they can do so time and time again without getting tired or physically fatigued. What this means for you: even complex projects can be delivered quickly and accurately.

Do note, though, that we don’t mean to shortchange our hardworking staff; those who run CNC machines are equally as important to the production process as the machines themselves, as we cover in our industrial manufacturing blog.

CNC Machining Cuts Down on Worker Stress

While it may seem unrelated, the welfare of employees directly ties to how well your project turns out. According to Corporate Wellness Magazine, “workplace stress reduces employee productivity.” CNC Machining reduces stress by giving employees the tools they need to get more done quickly, efficiently, and accurately, letting them stay on top of things—and preventing the all-too-common stress of falling behind. Our staff enjoy a more positive working environment, and you get to enjoy our signature quick turnaround times.

Contact BSM North America for Cutting-Edge CNC Machining

In addition to producing the custom steering columns we’re so well-known for, we also practice industrial parts fabrication with innovative CNC technologies that get you fast and accurate results. Give our Burnsville location a call today at 952-890-8146.