Numerical controlled machines were developed in the late 40's by John T. Parsons, of MIT fame. The U.S. Air Force wanted Parsons to develop a cost-effective way to manufacture aircraft parts that consist of curves and geometric angles.

Soon after implementing his ideas for the Air Force, Numerical control was the industry standard. However, soon even this faster and cost-effective system for manufacturing was proving too slow to keep up with the demand. By 1989, Computer Numerical control manufacturing took over as the industry standard.

CNC software makes controlling and manipulating easy, cost-efficient, and proficient. There are many different types of CNC manufacturing methods that exist today. Knowing which CNC manufacturing method to use depends on the type of industry and tasks being performed.

It is important to choose the right method so that your project can stay as cost efficient as possible. Most any company associated with metal working will use CNC manufacturing in some detail. Some examples of common CNC manufacturing methods include:

• Lathes
• EDMS
• Milling Machines
• Turret punches
• High-Powered Cutting devices
• Drills

CNC is not only for big industry anymore. The cost of implementing this technology has decreased significantly over the years. The user-friendly software that is available today allows backyard enthusiast the ability to turn their ideas into a working vision. Someone can now create their own metal fabrications and wood crafts easily and efficiently.

No matter how big the company is, the benefits of CNC manufacturing are vast:

1. Saves money. Waste is decreased because the operator is able to use more of the raw material. While this is minimizing costs, the operator can soon expect to see profits increase.

2. The manual process of manufacturing can sometimes take a very long time over multiple, strenuous steps. CNC manufacturing reduces the manufacturing time, which also helps contribute to increased profits.

3. Safety is a huge concern in the manufacturing industry. Historically, manual manufacturing has been quite dangerous—causing loss of limbs and lives. Since now the entire process can be automated, the environment remains safe for the operator and anyone else involved in the process.

4. Quality and efficiency are also benefits to CNC Manufacturing methods because it is computer assisted. This cuts out most human error and other calculation oversights. Since the process is automated, there is uniformity to the finish product creating quality assurance to the manufacturer and consumer.

Remember that it is important to have the right training when using a CNC machine if you plan on operating one. Having the right robotics training and G-Code knowledge is important and will help you understand the methodology involved in operating a CNC machine.

When deciding which CNC Manufacturing Method to use, it is a good idea to stick with one that is appropriate for your field or compatible with what you are undertaking. And although CNC Manufacturing methods continue to become more and more user friendly, it is of upmost important to become properly trained and proficient in the use of any component before trying to operate them on your own.

CNC manufacturing can work for you for both your big projects, or small back yard endeavors if you allow yourself the time and effort to master it.