Learn why CNC fabrication across manufacturing and construction is taking the world by storm with these nine amazing advantages. Plus, discover further machinery, material, and technical insights.

CNC (computerised numerical control) fabrication has become a popular manufacturing method for various applications across numerous industries, including automotive, engineering, medical, military and aerospace.

Due to the various advantages of CNC fabrication, the global market value is forecast to reach $140 billion in 2029, increasing from $86 billion in 2022 at a CAGR of 7.1%.

So, what makes the demand for CNC so high, and can it deliver your project to satisfactory standards at a cost-effective rate from start to finish?

To find out, let’s explore the various advantages and methods of CNC fabrication along with machinery, material and market insights.

What is CNC Fabrication?

As an overarching term, we can apply CNC fabrication to any action, process or method involved with CNC manufacturing. So, by definition, when you place “CNC” before “fabrication”, it concerns any action or process of CNC manufacturing or invention, like metal fabrication concerns all aspects of metal manufacturing and assembly.

Therefore, in theoretical terms like metal fabrication, anything created by a CNC machine safely belongs to the bracket of CNC fabrication. As an overarching definition for anything CNC-related, CNC fabrication concerns all types of CNC projects, products and services.

But while CNC fabrication may seem like a relatively new concept, it has existed since 1952 after advancing on the first numerical control (NC) machines developed during the second world war. After being patented in 1958, CNC machines have continued to enhance, with an exponential development witnessed within the past decade.

How Does CNC Work?

Two crucial components are required to make CNC work. Firstly, you need some computer-aided design (CAD) software. And secondly, your CNC machine. With these two factors, you can then implement your design from the CAD software, which is then translated to the CNC machine to produce.

Finally, you need to source the ideal material and CNC professional for your project, and away you go. Knowing what type of CNC machine to use depends on the requirements of your project, such as the material, shape and overall complexity.

Here is a list of the different types of CNC machines available:

• CNC lathes/turning machines
• CNC milling machines
• CNC laser machine
• CNC router machine

Through automated movement and control, most CNC machines work with a rotating cylindrical cutter along multiple axes creating precise cuts, slots, holes, and details within the material in line with CAD programming. The more axes available to your machine, the more accuracy you can apply to your workpiece.

Whether you desire more precise results or more effective cutting capabilities because your material has a higher density, each CNC machine has specific functions to suit your requirements.

Here is a list of just some of the materials you can use for your CNC fabrication project:

Wood

• Plywood
• Redwood
• Birch
• Maple
• Ash
• Cherry
• Beech
• Oak

Metal

• Aluminum
• Magnesium
• Titanium
• Steel (Stain/carbon)
• Brass

Plastic

• Polyethene (HDPE)
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
• Nylon 66
• Polyetheretherketone (PEEK)
• Polyacetal polyoxymethylene (POM)
• Polycarbonate (PC)

All these materials and more can be applied to your CNC fabrication and combined to bring your multi-material project to life.

9 Advantages of CNC Fabrication

Now we have the materials and machinery in mind, let’s look at the benefits of CNC fabrication in comparison to other forms of manufacturing.

1. Automation

Whatever can become an automated process is bound to make our lives easier. So, as long as the design is programmed correctly with the machine and workpiece prepared, we can allow the CNC technology to take care of the rest.

2. Speed

Due to the automation capabilities, CNC fabrication is a faster manufacturing method. Some industry insights report CNC machines can produce parts and products 75-300% faster than manual machines.

3. Zero Human Error

Automation processes involved with CNC fabrication can eliminate human error during the cutting phase compared to manual machine cutting. Just ensure you have the right design and the correct quality materials.

4. Cost-Effective

Combining speed, automation, and zero human error also means cost savings. Because when a CNC fabrication project is completed in less time, with fewer workers and no human error, no doubt we have fewer costs to cover.

5. Accuracy

Depending on the machine and material, CNC fabrication is renowned for its precision cutting potential. This advantage makes CNC fabrication particularly beneficial for manufacturing small complex project parts that require consistency and acute accuracy.

6. No Wastage

CNC fabrication is also a sustainable manufacturing method by producing next to no waste thanks to the precision and elimination of human error. Then by using regenerative materials like wood or recycled parts, your project can be eco-friendly from start to finish.

7. Safety

Once again, thanks to automation, CNC fabrication is perhaps the safest form of manufacturing. Workers need not operate the machines manually, which can create health and safety issues if they make a mistake.

8. Versatility

CNC has the potential to bring any project to life. From tiny parts to complete kitchens and full-size FAB houses. Furniture, instruments, art, you name it across a wide range of materials, CNC fabrication leaves the potential of your project to your imagination.

9. Creation to Completion

Unlike other manual forms of manufacturing and construction, CNC fabrication requires minimal tools while completing a project from start to finish. From the initial CAD design to the creation, completion and final assembly of your project, CNC fabrication can do it all.

Find Your Local CNC Fabrication Experts

Midlands CNC has built its name as a specialist provider of professional CNC fabrication services across a dynamic range of clientele here in Birmingham and in the West Midlands.

There’s nothing we enjoy more than turning our client’s visions into reality through CNC capabilities. And not only do we guarantee to meet the demands, but we always find ways to exceed their expectations.

Our CNC fabrication expertise covers CNC routing, edge banding, and bespoke CNC design before milling, quality material sourcing, fabrication, build, shipping and logistics. So, if you have a CNC fabrication project in mind and require some guidance, speak with one of our friendly CNC technicians today.

NEED HELP AND ADVICE WITH YOUR CNC WOOD DESIGNS Call +44 (0) 121 557 2191