Comparison of CNC Processing And Sheet Metal Processing

CNC machining and sheet metal machining are two common and widely used machining methods in the manufacturing industry. They all play an important role in the manufacture of metal parts, but there are obvious differences in process flow, scope of application, precision requirements, cost-effectiveness, etc.

1. Process flow

CNC machining is the process of cutting, milling, drilling, turning and other processing of workpieces through CNC machine tools. It is a computer-controlled automated machining technique that can achieve highly complex shapes and precision requirements. Sheet metal processing is mainly to process and form sheet metal materials through shearing, stamping, bending and other processes. In contrast, CNC machining is more flexible and diverse, and is suitable for machining workpieces with high requirements on shape and size.

2. Material suitability

CNC machining is suitable for various metal and non-metal materials, such as aluminum alloy, stainless steel, copper, plastic, etc. It has a wide range of material applicability and can meet the needs of a variety of industries. Sheet metal processing is mainly used for the processing of metal sheet metal materials, such as stainless steel sheet metal, aluminum alloy sheet metal, etc. Therefore, CNC machining has more advantages in material applicability.

3. Machining accuracy

CNC machining is controlled by computer, its precision is high, and it can realize very fine machining. For the manufacture of some high-precision parts, CNC machining is an indispensable technology. However, sheet metal processing is limited in precision. Although it can meet the requirements of general engineering, it may not be able to meet the requirements for high-precision and complex-shaped workpieces.

4. Cost-effectiveness

In terms of cost-effectiveness, sheet metal processing is relatively low. Sheet metal processing equipment is relatively simple, with low operating technical threshold and high production efficiency, which is suitable for mass production. However, CNC processing equipment is relatively complicated, requires professional operating technicians, and the equipment investment and maintenance costs are relatively high. Therefore, in small batches or single-piece production, sheet metal processing is usually more cost-effective.

5. Processing cycle

Due to its high degree of automation and flexibility, CNC processing can greatly shorten the processing cycle. Once the CNC programming is completed, the same type of workpiece can be processed continuously to improve production efficiency. However, there are many processes in sheet metal processing, and multiple mold changes and adjustments are required, so the processing cycle is relatively long.

6. Design flexibility

CNC machining can realize the machining of complex shapes and fine structures, and the design flexibility is very high. Through CAD/CAM software, CNC programs can be quickly generated to achieve rapid design and processing. The design flexibility of sheet metal processing is low, mainly relying on tooling and molds to achieve processing of different shapes.

7. Applicable scenarios

CNC machining is suitable for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical equipment, and is of great significance for the manufacture of parts with high precision and complex shapes. Sheet metal processing is suitable for electronics, home appliances, construction and other industries, especially in the processing of parts with simple shapes and mass production.

8. Manufacturing process complexity

CNC machining usually involves many processes, especially for workpieces with complex shapes, which require multiple tool replacements and processing adjustments. The process of sheet metal processing is relatively simple, and usually only a few processes are required, making the processing process simpler and more efficient.

CNC processing and sheet metal processing are two common manufacturing and processing methods, each with its own advantages and applicable scenarios. CNC machining has a wide range of material applicability, high machining accuracy and design flexibility, and is suitable for the manufacture of parts with high precision and complex shapes. Sheet metal processing has low cost, simple processing process and high production efficiency, and is suitable for processing parts with large quantities and simple shapes. In actual production, according to the requirements and batches of different products, choose the appropriate processing method.