Why Choose CNC Machining Instead of Casting For Your Stainless Steel Project
From tool construction to medical equipment production, stainless steel is one of the best all-around materials for manufacturing projects. Thanks to its versatility, stainless steel can be formed into shapes in a variety of ways. But if you're looking to create a new range of parts, then which process is better for you: casting or machining? Casting stainless steel in a mold was once the most popular way of manufacturing it into products, but these days, CNC machining is a far better alternative for several reasons.
CNC machining is cheaper
First, remember that to cast something in stainless steel, you need to use a mold. Molds are great for making multiple copies of the same part, but every mold presents an extra initial cost. This can mount up when you have multiple products or parts you need to manufacture. Stainless steel CNC machining, on the other hand, uses cutting tools rather than molds. As a result, it has a far cheaper upfront cost.
CNC machining is faster
On top of being cheaper than casting, CNC machining stainless steel is also faster. Casting stainless steel can take a long time because the metal has to be heated to extreme levels, transferred into the mold, and cooled over time. With CNC machining, you simply load your steel into the machine and begin cutting. Once the workpiece is set and the cut pattern is generated, your product can be finished in a matter of minutes.
CNC machining is more precise
Surprisingly, there are even more benefits beyond price and speed. One stainless steel CNC machining benefit that many don't know about is its precision. As a computer-managed tool, CNC machines are incredibly accurate – so accurate that high-precision parts for surgical equipment can be made safely and efficiently without needing any human oversight at all. The precision of stainless-steel casting, on the other hand, can be affected by the extreme heating and cooling process.
CNC machining is best for complex parts
Casting is great for large, simple stainless steel parts, but it's generally not suitable for small and intricate products because the molds can create surface errors. CNC machining, on the other hand, can be used to make even the most minute parts with accuracy. As such, if you're looking to create a complex product (such as surgical tools or fine jewelry), CNC machining is likely the best manufacturing method for your company.
To learn more, contact a company that does CNC machining.
Share