Things to consider before purchasing a CNC Machine Tool
With plenty of machine manufacturers from all over the world, each with a wide selection and array of machines, the choices for a new CNC machine tool is almost infinite. From vertical to horizontal milling machines and lathes, to 5-axis machining centres, and multi-axis turning centres, CNC machine tools come in a wide variety of sizes, functions and performance.
Euro Gulf puts together a set of questions you need to ask yourself before making a purchase. Euro Gulf also providers consultancy services to help you choose the right machine.
Determine the basic purpose behind the purchase
What is the basic reason for buying the machine? What do you want to accomplish with it? You need to have a clear assessment of your current and future production needs to avoid buying an undersized machine or an over specified machine.
Look at the following questions and answer them as detailed as possible:
- How will the machine be used every day?
- What are the parts the machine is expected to produce?
- How many numbers of products is the machine expected to produce every day?
- What is the level of precision?
- What are the number of axels required?
Think Futuristic
After you find out the reason for purchasing the machine, you should focus on the components you want to manufacture.
- What is the size and type of the component?
- Will the machine make tiny components, large components, or really huge components?
This response holds the key to determine the right size and model of equipment. In a situation where parts of different shapes and sizes are expected to be manufactured every day, you should c onsider the largest component that can be manufactured.
Component Shapes
The shape of the component will determine how the component will be held during machining. This, in turn, will determine the type of fixture to use. Is it enough to use a simple jawed chuck? Or do you require a complex fixture like hydraulic chucks? Or maybe the shape requires a rotary table for machining fourth- and fifth-axis?
Understand the Pricing
CNC machine tool costs range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. In working out your budget, you need to consider the options that you need. Most CNC machines come with warranty option, few machines come with warranty, service and spares options. You need to weigh your options very well before taking the final call. You also need to keep in mind that a low-cost machine may save you a few dollars on the the onset but may be unable to provide the speed and performance which your business demands.
Before making your decision, make sure you talk to our experts and ensure that you make the right decision.
