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CNC routers have become widely accessible today, paving the way for highly efficient and accurate large-scale manufacturing operations. But despite the accessibility, those who are untrained in the field may still find CNC machining to be quite intimidating.

As a highly-technical field, the uninitiated will turn to the information available online for some clarity. However, the sheer amount of conflicting information online can make it even more overwhelming, considering the myths about the field that proliferate online platforms.

Here are some of the most common misconceptions about CNC machining found online.

CNC Routers Are Too Expensive

The direct cost associated with purchasing a CNC router machine may certainly come with a hefty price tag. Depending on the manufacturer, some of the cheapest models available online could go for thousands of dollars.

But despite the high buy-in price, whether or not that’s expensive will depend on your budget and the value you obtain from the purchase.

Having a router machine enables you to create a more accurate and efficient manufacturing process, which gives rise to a higher-quality product while lowering production costs.

Overall, purchasing a CNC router machine promises to be one of the most cost-effective investments you can make.

Experience is Not Necessary to Operate a CNC Router Machine

CNC machine manufacturers make an effort to build machines that simplify the machining process while being as user-friendly as possible. But despite those efforts, a router machine will still only be as good as its operator. Operating a complex piece of machinery like a CNC machine will require knowledge and familiarity built through experience.

For the newbie machinist, your best course of action would be to seek help from experts who have worked extensively with CNC machines. There are also resources available online such as online forums and training sessions to familiarize yourself with the right tools and procedures.

CNC Router Machines Are Fully Automated

It is a common misconception, even among adept machinists, that some processes require no human intervention at all thanks to the power of automation.

Through the years, incredible advancements have indeed been made in the field of automation, such as the integration of part loaders, feeders, and other functions, to make the fabrication process more seamless.

However, over the course of production, issues will arise that will require the intervention of an expert to fix. Further, it would be counterintuitive to operate a complex piece of machinery that requires a high upfront investment without professionals overseeing the operation.

A CNC Machine is Capable of Just About Anything

A quick search online and you will be able to find various videos of the features of CNC machines and what they are capable of achieving. Based on those videos alone, it becomes apparent that you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to what you can do with a CNC machine.

But in reality, even the most advanced piece of equipment will have its limitations. Some of its features may be more suitable for one application while rendering them unusable in others due to certain restrictions, such as cutting envelope or its range of motion.

Understanding each machine’s unique capabilities and limitations is critical to finding suitable applications for each and ensuring that you’re utilizing it to its fullest capacity.

CNC Machine Don’t Require Maintenance

It’s evident that CNC machines are incredibly durable, especially when made by a reliable router manufacturer. However, with frequent usage, a router machine is still bound to break down when subjected to incredible amounts of wear and tear. The complexity and speed at which the machines are operated contribute to the damage it incurs and will ultimately determine how fast it breaks down.

Machine breakdowns are inevitable in every operation and should be anticipated. This can lead to significant downtime and losses due to work stoppage when the machine ultimately fails. This highlights the importance of having a skilled operator who is skilled in running the equipment at full capacity and implementing fixes during machine failure.

The best course of action for any production facility is to maintain a preventive maintenance schedule to avoid potential issues with equipment. This will allow you to anticipate potential problems that may occur, so it doesn’t cause unnecessary stoppages in your operations.

Get Started On Your CNC Projects with CAMaster

CAMaster is committed to providing you with reliable firsthand information from our CNC experts.

As an industry leader in the CNC machining industry, we supply top-tier CNC machines that support your business operations and provide in-depth knowledge to help you take full advantage of the powerful features of your CNC router machine.

Gain access to our industry-leading products and technical support by contacting us today through our website.