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Five Key Factors You Must Know Before Buying a CNC Machine Tool
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Five Key Factors You Must Know Before Buying a CNC Machine Tool

Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2025-08-07      Origin: Site

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CNC (computer numerical control) machine tools are widely used in the manufacturing industry because of their high precision, high efficiency and automation advantages. However, there are many types of CNC machine tools on the market, and their performance, price, configuration and other aspects vary greatly. If you don't understand the key factors, blindly buying may lead to low production efficiency, insufficient processing accuracy, and even increase corporate costs. This article will introduce the five key factors that must be understood before purchasing a CNC machine tool to help companies make a wise choice.

 

1. Processing accuracy and stability of machine tools

The core value of CNC machine tools lies in processing accuracy and long-term stability. Different models of machine tools have different positioning accuracy, repeated positioning accuracy and processing errors. The following points need to be paid attention to before purchasing:

Positioning accuracy: refers to the error of the machine tool when processing at a specified position, usually in microns (μm), and is generally required to be within ±0.01mm.

Repeat positioning accuracy: refers to the error when the machine tool repeatedly processes the same part under the same conditions. The smaller the better, it should usually be within ±0.005mm.

Rigidity and stability: High-rigidity machine tools can reduce vibration, maintain processing accuracy, and are suitable for long-term continuous work. It is recommended to choose machine tools with high-quality cast iron structures and stable guide rails.

 

2. Processing range and function of machine tools

Different CNC machine tools are suitable for different processing needs, so you need to clarify the production tasks and choose the appropriate type before purchasing. For example:

Turning machine tools (CNC lathes): suitable for processing cylindrical parts, such as shafts and flanges.

Milling machine tools (CNC milling machines, machining centers): suitable for processing planes, slots, holes and complex parts.

Five-axis CNC machine tools: can realize complex surface processing, such as aviation parts and mold manufacturing.

In addition, you need to pay attention to the machine tool's spindle speed, tool magazine capacity, feed speed and other parameters to ensure that they meet the company's production needs.

 

High-precision CNC machining3

3. Control system and software compatibility

The control system of CNC machine tools determines the programming method, ease of operation and processing efficiency. Common CNC control systems include:

FANUC: high stability, wide global application, suitable for a variety of processing scenarios.

SIEMENS: Excellent performance in complex processing and automated production lines.

MITSUBISHI: More common in the Asian market, with high cost performance.

In addition, whether the machine tool is compatible with mainstream CAD/CAM software (such as Mastercam, UG NX, SolidWorks) is also an important consideration, which affects programming efficiency and processing accuracy.

 

4. Maintenance cost and after-sales service of machine tools

The service life of CNC machine tools is usually more than 10 years, but daily maintenance, parts replacement and after-sales support are essential. When purchasing, you should pay attention to:

Supply of wearing parts and accessories: such as spindles, tool magazines, motors, etc., whether they are easy to replace and whether the price is reasonable.

After-sales service: Choose suppliers that provide localized services and fast maintenance response to ensure that problems with the equipment can be quickly resolved.

Training and technical support: Some machine tool suppliers provide programming training and operation guidance, which can improve the use ability of corporate employees.

 

5. Budget and cost performance

The price of CNC machine tools ranges from hundreds of thousands to millions. When choosing, you should weigh the cost performance within the budget.

 

Domestic vs. Imported: Domestic CNC machine tools have developed rapidly in recent years, and the price is more advantageous, which is suitable for most companies. Imported brands have better performance in precision and stability, and are suitable for high-end manufacturing.

Second-hand machine tools: When the budget is limited, you can consider second-hand CNC machine tools, but you must check the age and precision loss to avoid excessive maintenance costs in the future.

Energy consumption and production costs: Choosing energy-saving machine tools can reduce long-term operating costs and improve the return on investment.

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