Until CNC precision machining was invented, workers were required to use crude tools coupled with manual labor. Some people did good work but there is no comparison to the results seen today from modern machines. In addition to high-tech CNC machining options, workers are now highly educated and trained.
Keep in mind that CNC precision machining reaches well beyond the world of heavy-duty industrial purposes consisting of metal components and parts. While that is still a large part of machining, CNC is used for many materials to include plastics. Millions of things that people use every day have been CNC machined without them even knowing it.
CNC precision machining is a key part of producing automobiles. Bolts and other parts that help keep cars together are carefully machined. The same is true for trains, boats, airplanes, and more. However, machined parts are also found in refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, mobile phone cases, faucets, and the list goes on.
Without CNC precision machining, many things millions of people depend on would not exist. This type of machining is extremely accurate and precise. Once parts have been machined, they are stronger, more durable, and longer-lasting. Every part, regardless of how it is machined, is finished to an exact specification.
With CNC precision machining, accuracy is achieved thanks to special coding supplied by a computer. Dimensions, weights, sizes, and other information are fed into the computer, which in turn translates the information into an alphanumerical code. This code is what tells CNC machines exactly what to do and how.
A huge benefit of using CNC precision machining is the creation of prototypes. For instance, when a company first develops a new product, every part has to be carefully designed, developed, and tested to ensure it meets strict safety standards. With machining, a part is fabricated as a single item, analyzed, tested, and proven to pass all criteria.
Once the part is deemed right, it can then be produced in mass production using the same code and CNC machines that fabricated the single part. By creating a prototype, there is no waste of money and time. This is a significant savings to the company hiring the machinist but also the CNC machine shop and ultimately, the end-user.