The cost of operating CNC machines is an important decision-making element in choosing the right equipment for production. When it comes to CNC machines, which are used for precision material cutting in various industries, it is worth considering how different technologies affect CNC cutting costs. In this post, we will present a detailed cost comparison of CNC machines depending on the type of cutting technology: water, laser, plasma and oxygen. In addition, we will discuss the factors that affect the operating cost of CNC cutting over the long life of the machines.

Description of contents:

• Cost of CNC cutting machine operation
• Cost comparison of CNC machines

Costs of operating CNC cutting machines.

Each type of CNC machine involves certain operating costs, which can vary depending on the technology. Among the most commonly used machines in industry are CNC cutting machines used for water, plasma, oxygen and laser cutting. In each case, the cost of operating CNC machines includes energy costs, consumables, maintenance, and replacement parts. CNC cutting costs depend on the intensity of use and the type of materials being processed.

Waterjet cutting (waterjet)

Waterjet cutting is one of the most versatile CNC technologies, used for cutting materials such as stainless steel, stone, glass and composites. The technology uses high-pressure water, often enriched with abrasive material, which affects operating costs.

The operating costs of CNC machines for waterjet cutting include:

• Energy consumption: Waterjet cutting machines require a lot of energy, especially when cutting harder materials. The energy-related costs of CNC cutting can be significant, especially at high production volumes.

• Cost of abrasive: With abrasive waterjet cutting, the cost of consumables is higher. Regular abrasive replacement increases the operating cost of CNC cutting.

It is worth noting, however, that waterjet cutting machines offer high precision cutting, and also do not generate pollution in the form of smoke or fumes, which can be beneficial in terms of environmental protection.

Laser cutting

Laser cutting is a technology that permits very precise cuts in metal materials, wood, plastics or leather. CO2 lasers and fiber lasers are most commonly used in industry for CNC cutting.

Costs of operating CNC laser cutting machines include:

• Energy costs: Laser cutting consumes a large amount of energy, especially when cutting thicker materials. This is one of the main components of CNC cutting costs. Higher laser powers result in higher energy consumption.

• Cost of booster gases: Various gases such as oxygen, nitrogen and air are used in the laser cutting process. The operating cost of CNC cutting when using gases may be higher when using nitrogen, which is more expensive than other gases.

Despite higher operating costs, laser cutting achieves high edge quality, minimizing the need for further material processing.

Plasma cutting

Plasma cutting is a technology used primarily for cutting conductive materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Plasma generates a high-temperature beam that melts the material, making it possible to cut it.

The costs of operating CNC plasma cutting machines include:

• Power consumption: Although plasma machines consume less energy than laser machines, they still generate high CNC cutting costs, especially when cutting thick materials.

• Electrode and nozzle replacement: During the plasma cutting process, electrodes and nozzles wear out, leading to the need for regular replacement. The cost of replacing these components is a significant component of CNC machine operating costs.

• Service and maintenance: Requires regular servicing, including cleaning and inspection of machine parameters.

• Machine maintenance.

Plasma cutting is a less expensive alternative to laser cutting, but may have higher operating costs associated with parts replacement.

Oxygen cutting

Oxygen cutting is a cutting process in which oxygen assists in melting the material under the influence of high temperatures generated by the torch. It is mainly used for cutting carbon steel and other thick materials.

Costs of operating CNC cutting include:

• Gas consumption: In the oxygen cutting process, oxygen is the main operating gas. Gas costs are relatively low, but in high production volumes can increase significantly.

• Gas costs.

• Service and maintenance: Oxygen cutting machines require regular service, including torch replacement and gas system inspection, which affects the operating cost of CNC cutting.

It is relatively inexpensive CNC cutting, but has limited application, mainly for cutting carbon steel.

Cost comparison of CNC machines

Comparison of CNC machine costs depends on a number of factors, including cutting technology, type of materials, frequency of production and intensity of machine operation. water-cutting and laser-cutting offer high precision cutting, but come with higher operating costs related to energy consumption, gases and consumable parts. plasma cutting and oxygen cutting offer low-cost CNC cutting, but still require regular maintenance and parts replacement.

Summary

Choosing the right CNC cutting technology depends on specific production needs and budget. For companies looking for low-cost CNC cutting, CNC plasma or oxygen cutting machines may prove to be the most advantageous solution. On the other hand, for those who need the highest quality cutting and precision, investing in laser cutting or waterjet cutting machines may prove more cost-effective in the long run. The CNC cutting machine manufacturer offers a wide range of equipment that allows you to choose the technology best suited to your production needs.