More than ever, modern industries depend on automated machining equipment to create vital components for their high-tech projects. For fields like aerospace engineering, a fraction of a millimeter can mean the success or failure of a mission and, in some cases, even life or death. So the need for precision cannot be overstated.
If you are in need of precision machining equipment, how can you know which units best suit your needs, and how can you ensure that you are getting the most out of your investment? Here are a few factors and tips to remember before spending thousands of dollars on a CNC machine.
Think About Your Project's Needs
Just like any other tool, precision machining equipment is produced by several different brands, and while the machines produced by these brands provide a means to an end, each has its strengths that make it stand out over its competitors. For example, some machines can create elements very quickly, which is excellent in you need to produce several examples of the same component. However, machines from other brands work slower but are able to reach greater levels of precision.
So when shopping for precision equipment, the first step is analyzing your needs. Consider the type of components you need to produce. Are they large or small? How many parts do you need to create? What level of precision does your project require? How important is speed? Thinking about your unique project requirements will help you narrow down your options for precision machining equipment.
Know the Brand's Reputation
Once you’ve selected a few potential machines, the next step is to investigate their brands’ reputations. There is no shortage of information on the internet. So dive into forums and read reviews from companies with experience with a particular brand. Contact them to get their thoughts and opinions about the manufacturer. Ask Questions like:
- How is the brand’s customer service?
- How long do you have to wait for replacement parts?
- What is the overall performance of the unit like?
- Is the machine built well, and is it reliable?
Be Wary of Low-Prices
Purchasing precision machining equipment is a significant investment. Some machines can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. So, logically you want to get the most out of your investment.
In your search for precision equipment, you’ll discover that certain brands are more affordable than others. So, it’s important to remember that these brands are cheaper for a reason. In some cases, a manufacturer is new on the scene and hasn’t had the time to build a solid reputation yet. So, they price their machines lower in an effort to draw in customers. Purchasing from a developing company like this is dangerous as you run the risk of receiving a product that performs below your expectations.
Think About the Future
When analyzing your investment, it’s crucial that you look past the initial cost and keep the future in mind. For example, every piece of precision CNC equipment eventually requires maintenance, which is often expensive. So before making your final decision on a unit, take time to investigate the prices for replacement parts. What is the suggested timeframe for routine maintenance? Can you perform maintenance internally, or do you need the assistance of a technician from the manufacturer? Having a long-term perspective on your investment will prevent you from overspending down the line.
The Next Generation of Precision Machining Equipment.
Not every precision manufacturing system is capable of machining your large-scale components. To get the job done right, you need equipment that is not only precise but also reliable, flexible, and efficient. The AccuCell6 system from Advanced Machine Works was designed to handle the production of the world’s most demanding monolithic parts. If you’re interested in what this revolutionary system can do for your growing organization, please feel free to get in touch with us today.