Deburring In-House to Reduce CNC Costs
Instead of specifying chamfers or corner radii in your design, consider handling deburring internally to reduce CNC machining costs. While automated deburring is available for stainless steel parts, other materials require additional machining time for edge breaks. Manual deburring using files, abrasive paper, or buffing wheels can be a cost-effective alternative to expensive automated processes.
Minimize Text Engraving for Cost Efficiency
Text engraving, while visually appealing, is a time-intensive operation that increases CNC machining costs. Consider avoiding decorative text on machined parts and reserving such features for injection-molded components, where the cost can be distributed across higher production volumes, ultimately reducing the overall machining cost.
Be Mindful of Wall Thickness to Avoid Increased Costs
Features smaller than 0.020 inches (0.5mm) are flagged as thin-wall geometry. While these can be machined, they pose risks that can increase CNC machining costs:
- Potential breakage during machining
- Post-machining flexing or warping
- Deviation from original design specifications
Recommendation: Increase wall thickness wherever design requirements permit to reduce the risk of machining complications and the associated costs.
Maintain Simple Geometries to Lower CNC Machining Costs
Complex designs can significantly increase machining costs. Consider these guidelines to reduce CNC costs:
- Avoid deep pockets, even with relieved corners
- Minimize tall walls that may require additional support structures
- Break complex parts into multiple components when necessary
- Be cautious with sculptured surfaces and deep features that require more machining time and resources
Consider Material Alternatives to Reduce Machining Costs
Material selection can significantly impact both machining costs and part performance. When selecting materials:
- Evaluate machine-friendly alternatives that require less processing time
- Balance material costs with performance requirements
- Consider both metals and plastics based on application needs to optimize cost-effectiveness
Design Best Practices for Reducing CNC Costs
Feature | Cost-Saving Recommendation |
---|---|
Edge Breaks | Manual deburring instead of machined chamfers |
Text/Engravings | Avoid unless functionally necessary |
Wall Thickness | Maintain >0.020″ when possible |
Geometry | Keep simple, avoid deep features |
Materials | Consider machine-friendly alternatives |
Summary: The simplest approach is often the most cost-effective. Always evaluate whether complex features are truly necessary for your part’s function, as streamlining your design can reduce CNC machining costs without compromising quality.