The CNC Machining Cost Guides

Factors Affecting The Calculation Of CNC Machining Cost

The Fixed CNC machining cost.

Fixed CNC machining cost refers to the cost associated with using a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine to produce a part or prototype. The cost typically includes several factors, such as start-up costs, machining costs, material costs, and surface finishing.

• Start-up costs refer to the costs associated with getting a CNC machining job ready to begin. This can include the initial investment in the CNC machine itself, as well as the time and labor required to set up the machine and prepare it for the job. Start-up costs can be significant, especially for complex or large-scale machining jobs.
• Machining costs refer to the costs associated with running the CNC machine during the machining process. This can include the time required to machine the part or component, as well as the labor required to operate the machine and monitor the process. Machining costs also typically include the cost of toolings, such as cutting tools and other consumables used during the machining process. So usually the 3-axis machining CNC 15$ to 30$ per hour, and axis or 5-axis CNC machining is from 25$ to 50$  per hour or higher
• Material costs refer to the cost of the raw materials used to produce the part or component. This can include the cost of the raw material itself, as well as any additional processing or finishing required to prepare the material for machining.
• Surface finishing refers to any additional processes required to finish the surface of the machined part or component. This can include processes such as polishing, painting, or plating, and can add to the overall cost of the part.
• Shipment cost refers to the cost of transporting the finished part or component from the machining facility to the customer. This can include the cost of packaging and shipping, as well as any additional handling or storage required.

Overall, the cost of fixed CNC machining can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the part or component being machined, the materials used, and the required surface finish. It is important for manufacturers to carefully consider these costs when planning a CNC machining project.

The variable factors affecting machining cost.

The variable factors that affect machining cost include the type of machining process, tolerances, quantity, lead time, power, shape complexity, and part dimensions.

• The type of CNC machining process refers to the number of axes of motion that the machine has. The most common type is 3-axis machining, which allows for movement in three directions. 4-axis machining adds an additional rotary axis, and 5-axis machining adds two more rotary axes. The more axes a machine has, the more complex and expensive the machining process will be.
• The tolerance refers to the level of precision required for the machined parts. Higher tolerances require more precise and complex machining processes, leading to higher costs.
• The quantity of parts being machined also affects the cost. Higher quantities typically result in lower costs per part due to economies of scale and the ability to optimize the machining process.
• The lead time, or the time required to complete the machining process, can also affect cost. Shorter lead times may require additional resources and expedited processes, resulting in higher costs.
• Power consumption is another factor that affects cost. When manufacturing the component with a thin walls, the Machining processes with high speed require significant power. and the cost of that power can impact the overall cost of the machining process.
• The shape complexity is another factor that affects cost. More complex machining parts shapes require more complex machining processes, leading to higher costs.
• The part dimensions can also affect cost. Smaller parts may require additional setup and handling, resulting in higher costs. Large parts may require larger, more expensive machines and additional power, also leading to higher costs.

How the reduce the CNC machining cost for your project？

Saving the cost of CNC machining for a project can be achieved through a few different strategies.

• Carefully selecting the materials to be used in the project can greatly impact the cost. Using materials that are readily available and easy to work with can reduce the time and effort needed for machining, which can lower the overall cost. Additionally, purchasing materials in larger quantities can often lead to bulk discounts, which can further reduce the cost.
• The delivery time for the project can also have an impact on the cost of CNC machining. Choosing a faster turnaround time can often result in higher costs, as it requires the machining shop to prioritize your project over others and may require them to work overtime or weekends to meet the deadline. On the other hand, allowing for a longer lead time can often result in lower costs, as the shop can schedule your project in a way that is more efficient and cost-effective.
• Tight tolerances, or the precise dimensions and specifications required for a project, can also affect the cost of CNC machining. More complex and precise machining processes will typically result in higher costs, as they require more time and specialized equipment with multiple machining processes,such as milling, cutting, turning, and drilling. Relaxing these tolerances, if possible, can help to reduce the cost of machining.
• The use of multiple finishes, such as polishing or plating, can also add to the cost of CNC machining. If the project allows for it, simplifying the finishing process can help to reduce the overall cost.

Besides Design optimization is a method that can be used to reduce the cost of CNC machining for a project. There are several design techniques that can be employed to achieve cost savings, including:

• Deep Pockets: Pockets or cavities that are deeper than they are wide can be more expensive to machine. Designing pockets that are shallower or wider can reduce the cost of machining.
• Thin Walls: Thin walls can be more difficult to machine, and can require more time and specialized tooling. Designing parts with thicker walls can reduce machining costs.
• Length of Threads: Threads that are longer or deeper can be more expensive to machine. Designing parts with shorter or shallower threads can reduce machining costs.
• Tapped Holes: Tapped holes, or threads that are cut into a hole, can be expensive to machine. Designing parts with through holes, or holes that go all the way through the part can reduce machining costs.
• Leverage Standard Drill Sizes: Standard drill sizes are widely available and can be less expensive to use than custom-sized drills. Designing parts to use standard drill sizes can reduce machining costs.
• Split-Up Complex Parts: Complex parts with many features can be difficult and expensive to machine. Designing parts with fewer features, or splitting up complex parts into multiple simpler parts, can reduce machining costs.
• Small Features With High Aspect Ratio: Small features with a high aspect ratio, such as narrow slots or deep holes, can be expensive to machine. Designing parts with larger or shallower features can reduce machining costs.
• Rounded Internal Corners: Sharp internal corners can be difficult and expensive to machine. Designing parts with rounded internal corners can reduce machining costs.

What needs to consider when getting a quote for CNC machining?

When getting a quote for CNC machining, there are several factors that you should consider in order to ensure that the quote accurately reflects the services you need and the costs associated with them.

You should consider the specific requirements for the parts or products you need to be produced. This may include factors such as the material to be used, the dimensions and tolerances of the parts, and any special features or finishes that are required. By providing this information, you can ensure that the quote accurately reflects the complexity and scope of the work to be done.

You should consider the delivery time for the parts or products. CNC machining can be a time-consuming process, so it is important to provide the CNC machining company with an estimated delivery date in order to ensure that they can meet your deadlines.

You should consider the price of the quote. CNC machining can be a relatively expensive manufacturing process, so it is important to compare quotes from multiple companies in order to get the best value for your money. You should also consider any additional costs that may be associated with the CNC machining process, such as setup fees, tooling costs, or shipping and handling charges.

Overall, when getting a quote for CNC machining, it is important to carefully consider it in order to ensure that you receive a quote that accurately reflects the services you need and provides the best value for your money.

Comparing the costs of CNC machining to other manufacturing methods

CNC machining is a manufacturing process that involves the use of computer-controlled machine tools to cut and shape a wide range of materials. It is a precise and efficient method that can produce high-quality parts with complex geometries and tight tolerances.

Compared to other manufacturing methods, CNC machining can be more expensive for small production runs due to the cost of the equipment and the time required to set up and program the machine. For larger production runs, however, CNC machining can be more cost-effective due to its high level of precision and repeatability.

Other manufacturing methods, such as injection molding and 3D printing, can be more cost-effective for producing large numbers of identical parts. Injection molding, for example, can produce high volumes of parts quickly and at a low cost per part, but it is limited in the complexity of the shapes that can be produced. 3D printing can produce complex shapes, but it is generally slower and more expensive than CNC machining.

Overall, the cost of CNC machining compared to other manufacturing methods will depend on factors such as the number of parts being produced, the complexity of the parts, and the required level of precision. It’s important to carefully consider these factors when choosing a manufacturing method for a particular project.

How to get an accurate quote price for CNC machining?

With the information above, you could make a CNC machining cost calculation excel to estimate the CNC machining cost with a simple machining cost formula for your project.

To get an accurate price for CNC machining parts, it is important to provide the CNC machining company with detailed and accurate information about the project. This may include the following:

• A detailed description of the part or component to be machined, including its size, material, and any special features or tolerances.

• Detailed drawings or CAD files that accurately represent the part or component.
• A list of the materials to be used, including the type, grade, and quantity of each material.
• The desired quantity of parts or components to be machined.
• The desired timeline for the project, including any deadlines or time constraints.
• The desired surface finish for the machined parts, if applicable.
• Any special requirements or considerations, such as tight tolerances or the use of specific materials.

Providing this information to the machining company will allow them to accurately assess the project and provide a quote that reflects the true cost of the machining work. It is also important to provide this information to multiple machining companies to allow for comparison and selection of the best option.

CNC machining service of Chansmachining

As a CNC machining manufacturer, we offer competitive pricing and high-quality parts. Contact us today to get a quote and see how our CNC machining services can help your business.