Differences Between Manual and Semi-Automated Precision Machining
June 29, 2020Precision machining is a type of technical manufacturing that helps create and design parts, tools, machines, and other hardware intended for modern manufacturing. Products of precision machining are intended to maintain process controls and tolerances even under tight environments and specifications.
This type of manufacturing process is often utilised in creating small parts of a machine or equipment. Precision machining takes care of fabricating parts that will fit together without compromising functionality, stability, and durability. Custom software and engineered tools are often utilised to process raw materials like plastic, ceramic, metal, and others into different modern manufacturing products.
Depending on their intended application, parts, tools, machines, or any hardware created by precision machining will typically have different sets of dimensions and specifications. To effectively create a product out of precision machining, you must choose the right level of automation for your needs. Two options that are available for you are manual and semi-automated precision machining.
Manual Precision Machining
While computer numerical control (CNC) machines are very helpful in creating materials out of pre-programmed computer software, there are several of them that cannot produce parts, tools, and machines with specific requirements. Fortunately, manual precision machining can help overcome this problem since it can produce pieces and parts with precise dimensions and specifications.
Machines for manual precision machining can help in huge ways. They are much more economical since they can process simple components while CNC machines are pre-occupied with numerous processes. They are also easier to set up and have a compact form factor, which makes them suitable in tight, small spaces. Small order for a single part can also benefit from manual machines since you do not have to go through a rigorous setup process that is typically present with CNC machines.
However, manual machines can be slow when it comes to processing parts. The quality of parts produced by manual precision machining can also be less precise due to the presence of human error margin. After all, these machines require operators before they can process products.
Semi-Automated Precision Machining
Semi-automated precision machining, on the other hand, is handled by automated machines with the inclusion of manual operation processes. This type of precision machining is believed to be the most common approach in modern machine shops since they get things done faster at a higher volume compared to their counterpart.
Machines that are used for semi-automated precision machining can readily automate and industrialise numerous aspects of the machining process. Other parts of the process, however, would still require absolute control from operators. The manual processes involved in this type of machining typically include the feeding of raw material into the machine, finishing the part, or inspecting the process throughout the required manufacturing stages.
Compared to manual machines, semi-automated machines can process parts and tools much quicker and much more efficient. Additionally, they can also produce a high volume of machined parts even with fewer operators involved. Given the features of semi-automated machines, you can expect them to significantly increase output even with the presence of minimal manual labour.
Knowing the differences between manual and semi-automated precision machining can help you choose the best type of machining for your specific application. If you want to know more about these types of precision machining, feel free to call us at Gunna Engineering.
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