How Much Does a CNC Machine Cost? Understanding the Price of CNC Machines

To buy a CNC machine, one must know what makes the price. This post is intended to provide a full understanding of the pricing of CNC machines by looking at the basic elements that cause cost fluctuations. Individuals engaged in hobbies, small business owners and managers of large manufacturing companies all need to comprehend how prices are structured so that they can make decisions aligned with their budgets as well as production requirements. The types of devices available and the main features affecting their costs, along with other expenses like maintenance fees, software charges, and training fees, among others, will be discussed in this blog post. Before you draft your budget for purchase, consider reading through this article because it will give you all the information required.

What is the Average Cost of a CNC Machine?

Factors Affecting CNC Machine Cost

The cost of the CNC machine is impacted by many factors hence it has a wide price range. Below are some of the main elements that affect the total cost:

1. Type and Size of Machine: The kind as well as size of CNC machines are important. These range from table top models meant for hobbyists to larger industrial grade ones meant for high volume production. Normally bigger machines with more complex features and higher precision capabilities are expensive.
2. Axis Configuration: The number of axes on which a cnc machine operates can determine its price tag, too. Basic models come with three axes at a lower price while those having five or more axes, which offer more intricate motion as well as cutting abilities, tend to be priced higher.
3. Build Quality & Brand Reputation: Costs may rise due to good quality construction using strong materials or because the manufacturer’s brand is known for reliability or advanced technology among other reasons. Well established brands usually charge higher prices than new entrants in this industry since customers trust them more than unknown companies that might offer cheap products which fail within weeks after purchase.
4. Software Requirements: Designing software plus operational programs are necessary when dealing with any type of cnc machine generally speaking. However, these software solutions come at an additional expense, particularly if one needs updates together with licenses, thus making them costly eventually.
5. Extra Features: Some features can be added optionally like automatic tool changers, coolant systems and enhanced safety measures etcetera all these things will make things convenient but they also increase prices accordingly because they improve efficiency though at an extra cost.
6. Maintenance & Support: Any buyer should consider buying from sellers who provide maintenance services besides customer support during the purchase decision-making process so that you know how much money those services will require later on after the purchase has been completed successfully. Machines equipped with full support packages may seem expensive initially, but they save lots of time on repairs down the line, thereby reducing overall expenditure throughout the lifespan of such devices.

Through looking into these factors, clients will gain better ideas about what makes up costs associated with purchasing cnc machinery, thereby allowing them make informed choices during acquisition.

How Used CNC Machines Compare in Price

Compared to buying a new model, getting a used CNC machine can save you a lot of costs but there are some things that must be put into consideration so as to make it a wise investment.

1. Depreciation: Generally, the value of used CNC machines has gone down, and this could mean that one can buy them at lower prices. The depreciation rate, however, varies depending on factors such as the age of the machine, its condition, and its brand name.
2. Condition and Usage: What matters most is the operational state of the second-hand CNC machine. Though they may cost more due to their good maintenance record and fewer working hours, they still have a longer life expectancy. Some technical points include spindle run hours, accuracy tolerances, and wear-out levels on particular parts.
3. Technology Obsolescence: Certain technological advancements might be absent in older models compared to newer ones. For example, advanced software integrations may not exist, or the capacity to handle complex geometries may not be available. This will affect productivity and efficiency in performing some tasks.
4. Availability of Parts and Service: It may be difficult to find replacement parts or service outdated machines. Therefore one should check if manufacturer’s support system still covers those specific models before making any purchase decision because this affects long term maintenance costs as well as down time incurred by the machine.
5. Initial Inspection and Refurbishment: These are steps that need to be taken when dealing with used equipment; they involve thorough examination during the acquisition stage plus necessary repairs so that it meets operational standards again. Recalibration, replacing worn-out components, plus updating software, among others, are some examples of refurbishments that should never miss adding up towards the total cost involved here after all is said and done about them.
6. Price Comparison Example: If we take an instance where four a four-year-old three-axis milling machine made by a reputable company can cost around 50-60% less than its new version, assuming this second-hand unit is still in good condition, then another scenario arises when dealing with high end five axis milling machines. The former can go for anything between 70-80% off current retail prices only if they have not yet been used before; otherwise, expect to pay much higher amounts since these ones come with advanced features and were costly at first.

By carefully considering these factors, one can be able to make the best decision that balances saving money and the operational efficiency of any used CNC machine bought.

Price Ranges: Hobby vs. Industrial CNC Machines

Comparing price ranges for hobby and industrial CNC machines, it is important to recognize differences in design, capabilities and intended use.

Hobby CNC Machines: These machines are usually made for light or moderate-duty work and are great for hobbyists, small workshops, and maker spaces. Prices of hobby CNCs can range from $1k – $5k, with some entry-level models available for under $1000. They tend to have simpler interfaces, less power, and fewer axis controls than their counterparts in industry, which is why they’re considered ‘hobby’ machines.

Industrial CNC Machines: On the other hand; industrial CNCs are designed to be used continuously all day long in heavy-duty environments where large-scale manufacturing happens day after day year round without stopping until something breaks down due to wear & tear over time because these types of operations run them non-stop 24/7 365 days per year as part of their production equipment line up since they need this kind of output capacity from such machinery being run constantly so prices will reflect that. Prices can vary greatly depending upon complexity & capability but typically start around $50k, going up into hundreds of thousands even millions.

So we can see that there is quite a difference between what people call “hobby” versus “industrial” cnc machines based solely on cost alone!

How to Choose the Right CNC Machine for Your Needs

Differences Among Types of CNC Machines

When selecting a CNC machine, there are many different factors to consider, such as what type of material you plan on using it with, how complex your projects will be, and your budget. Here are some key distinctions between types of CNC machines:

1. Material Compatibility: Some CNC machines have been optimized for softer materials like wood or plastic while others can handle tougher ones such as metals and composites.
2. Axis Control: Basic models may only operate on 2-3 axes (X, Y, and sometimes Z), but more advanced ones offer 5-axis control, which allows for intricate machining in multiple dimensions.
3. Precision/accuracy: Industrial level systems generally offer higher precision levels and tighter tolerances over hobbyist level ones – this is important when doing tasks that require extreme detail.
4. Speed/efficiency: Spindle speed, feed rate, etc., can vary greatly; industrial machines are built for fast, continuous operation, whereas hobby machines should be used intermittently because they lack cooling systems found on larger models.
5. Software/interface: Software supplied with hobby CNC machines tends to be easy-to-use while software made for industrial settings may have many features designed specifically around complex manufacturing needs.

Knowing these things can help guide your decision towards the right direction so you end up getting something which meets all your needs/projects requirements.

Considering CNC Router vs. CNC Mill

It is necessary to take into account a number of technical parameters when choosing between CNC routers and CNC mills so that you can select the right one for your particular project needs as well as materials.

Materials Compatibility:

• CNC Router: Mostly meant for softer materials like wood, plastic, etc., and some composites. It is used where less force is required with more details.
• CNC Mill: Ideal for working on harder materials such as metals (e.g., aluminum or steel) and heavy-duty composites. This machine can perform high precision operations that need more force.

Axis Control:

• CNC Router: Uses usually 3 axis (X,Y,Z), but some advanced models have up-to 5-axis control which allows machining complex geometries.
• CNC Mill: Normally equipped with 3-axis upto 5-axis control which enables multi-dimensional machining and greater part design flexibility.

Precision & Accuracy:

• CNC Router: Has fair accuracy suitable for woodworking or light materials having tolerances around ±0.1mm typically.
• CNC Mill: Gives better accuracy with tighter tolerances typically within ±0.01mm making it perfect for detailed metalworking or high-accuracy requirements.

Speed & Efficiency:

• CNC Router: Emphasizes high-speed cutting; spindle speeds range from 10,000 – 25,000 RPMs this makes it fast while moving over larger workpieces quickly.
• CNC Mill: Concentrates on precision than speed; spindle speeds here are between 2,000 – 10,000 RPMs; It designed to cut slowly (not too fast) through harder materials where control is important during cutting process.

Software & Interface:

• CNC Router: Comes with easy-to-use software that offers simple setup and operation often suitable for beginners or hobbyists who may not be tech-savvy.
• CNC Mill: Provides advanced software options featuring extensive customization along with control capabilities necessary for complex industrial tasks.

By using these technical parameters, you can make an educated decision on whether to use a CNC router or a CNC mill thus ensuring that the machine selected meets your project requirements and material processing needs.

Evaluating Small CNC vs. Large Industrial Models

To compare the small CNC machines with the large industrial models, some crucial considerations must be made so as to identify which among them is best suited for your requirements.

Size and Footprint

• Small CNC Machines: They take up little space hence suitable for small workshops. Most of these machines are portable and can be easily moved from one place to another when the need arises.
• Large Industrial Models: Due to their big sizes, they require significant amount of space; thus designed for use in industrial setups where there is enough room for installation and operation.

Cost and Scalability

• Small CNC Machines: Comparatively cheap; this makes them affordable by individuals who have limited financial capability like hobbyists, small enterprises or even those involved in prototyping. The initial outlay as well as operational costs are lower here.
• Large Industrial Models: These types represent huge investments financially justified by advanced capabilities together with output levels that are much higher than other categories’ performances; therefore they suit mass production within manufacturing industries on a large scale basis.

Capabilities and Performance

• Small CNC Machines: Being light duty machines they can only handle thin materials having simple shapes which may limit one’s options while designing things; besides accuracy provided by such devices is enough only for making prototypes or carrying out short runs involving few numbers of parts.
• Large Industrial Models: This kind boasts heavy-duty machining capacity coupled with higher precision plus wider range of workable materials including harder alloys as well composites among others; thus applicable when dealing with complex parts during high volume production runs within demanding environments.

Customization and Flexibility

• Small CNC Machines: Usually come with less number of customizable features but are user friendly thereby easy to operate as well maintain at low cost since their interfaces target beginners or people involved in small scale activities where sophistication levels required may not be very high.
• Large Industrial Models: Can be tailored extensively using powerful software packages alongside control systems featuring advanced functionalities thereby allowing for much broader customization options; all these are meant to cater for specific industrial needs thus making them suitable even for the most complex applications.

Speed and Efficiency

• Small CNC Machines: Quick setup times together with ability to do short runs make them highly efficient when working on small projects.
• Large Industrial Models: Continuous operation capability ensures sustained high levels of efficiency under conditions where demand is very high throughout the day or night without any breaks.

The decision between a small CNC machine and larger industrial model will be guided by these aspects vis-à-vis your production requirements, budget as well space available within your facility. It is through this evaluation that you can align with manufacturing objectives while considering operational capabilities too.

What are the CNC Machine Prices in 2024?

Trends in CNC Machines in 2024

Pricing and technological advances are being affected by several key trends in the CNC machining landscape in 2024:

1. Automation plus Smart Technology: The use of artificial intelligence and the internet of things with computer numerical control machines continues to grow thereby improving automation as well as enabling real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance which increase productivity but require higher initial investments.
2. Material Versatility: These days it is more common for people to be able to machine harder materials or ones that are diverse because this has been made easier through development. This is driven mainly by aerospace sector demands among others like medical devices manufacture where they need such capabilities. Such machines always come at an extra cost.
3. Energy Efficiency: Environmental issues and increased power prices have resulted in a push towards greater energy efficiency in CNC machinery. Some manufacturers are now producing eco-friendly models which may have higher initial costs but lower operating expenditures over time.
4. Hybrid Machines: Hybrid CNCs are becoming popular due to their ability combine both additive and subtractive manufacturing methods into one system thus allowing complex geometries to be formed easily along with faster prototype iterations especially where intricate designs are required by industries that do not want them made separately before being joined together again later on during production process.
5. Customization & Speed– Smaller sized as well larger sized units offer variety customizing options while giving better speeds respectively catering for low volume productions high speed needs small niche job shops etcetera.

In light these predictions it is expected that 2024 prices will reflect additional capabilities this could mean advanced or hybrid types being more expensive initially however long term efficiencies gained can lead to significant cost savings.

Influence of New CNC Machine Technologies on Cost

The costs are affected in different ways by the introduction of new CNC machine technologies. Here’s how:

Real-Time Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance

• Technical Parameter: Interconnection of IoT sensors with artificial intelligence algorithms.
• Explanation: Thanks to these two, hour by hour control becomes possible as well as forecasting which leads to less downtime due to failure of equipment or unexpected events and lowers maintenance cost although their prices are higher at first.

Material Versatility

• Technical Parameter: Ability to process superalloys, composites, and advanced ceramics.
• Justification: Machines built for processing more types of materials require greater strength and accuracy so they will be more expensive too.

Power Efficiency

• Technical Parameter: Power consumption amounts such as the ratio between work done per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
• Reasons: Some models may cost extra initially but save money on operations while meeting ecological standards because they use less energy which also reduces carbon emissions into atmosphere.

Hybrid machines

• Technical Parameter: Supporting both additive manufacturing (3D printing) and subtractive manufacturing (machining).
• Justification: When one device can do two tasks then space is saved since there is no need of purchasing many machines thus reducing capital expenditure in future over a long period of time.

Customization & Speed

• Technical Parameter: Higher-level tooling options for personalization, adjustable spindle speeds that are beyond average rate together with faster feed rates than rapid ones currently known about.
• Explanations: They involve more detailed adjustments during operation, hence increasing cost, but they also contribute to quicker production speed improvements and serve specific needs within the manufacturing industry, therefore giving better ROI opportunities overall.

Indeed, these state-of-the-art technologies might make CNC machines costly in the beginning but considering their potentiality to enhance productivity, efficiency and adaptability it can be justified through economic benefits that accrue over time.

Projected Price Changes for Different Types of CNC Machines

Depending on the data of current leading websites, this is how different CNC machines are expected to change in prices:

Entry-Level CNC Machines:

• Trend: Stable to Slight Increase.
• Explanation: Prices for entry-level CNC machines are expected to remain stable but could slightly increase because technology keeps advancing step by step and raw materials become costly.

Mid-Range CNC Machines:

• Trend: Moderate Increase.
• Explanation: Mid-range machines will see a moderate price increase due to improvement in multi-functionalities, accuracy level among others that require better software integration for smarter performance.

High-End CNC Machines:

• Trend: Significant Increase.
• Explanation: High-end machines will have their prices increased significantly as they incorporate AI-based analytics; hybrid manufacturing capabilities; advanced automation features and other cutting-edge technologies into them so as to cope with heavy duty industrial applications while still delivering big productivity gains.

In general terms, though, it seems like technological advancement should raise the price tag on these devices, but this investment can be justified since machine efficiency improves greatly alongside precision and versatility too.

Where to Buy Affordable CNC Machines?

Top Machine Manufacturers

When considering where to buy cheap CNC machines, there are several top manufacturers that always come up for their good quality and competitive pricing:

Haas Automation, Inc:

• Known For: Dependable performance, strong design, wide dealer network.
• Product Range: From entry-level to high-end CNC machines.

Tormach Inc:

• Known For: Affordability, user-friendly interfaces, small business/hobbyist suitability.
• Product Range: Primarily entry-level and mid-range CNC machines.

ETCN:

• Known For: State-of-the-art technology, precision engineering skills, full service support.
• Product Range: Covers everything from lower-end to upper-end industrial applications.

ShopSabre CNC:

• Known For: Customizability options available on all models; Durability – these systems will last decades if maintained properly; Bang-for-your-buck value proposition is hard to beat at this price point!
• Product Range: Entry-level through mid-range machines that can be used in many different ways.

Reliability of Buying Used CNC Machines

To make sure that the used CNC machines one buys are dependable and efficient, there are several things to consider. First, it is important to inspect the physical condition of the machine thoroughly. This involves looking for signs of wear and tear, rust or any other damages that may affect its performance. The following are some critical technical parameters:

• Spindle Hours – It shows how much the machine has been used; a lower number indicates less usage.
• Accuracy and Precision Tolerance – This determines whether or not tight tolerances can be held which is necessary for high precision work.
• Control System and Software – The control system should be updated as well as compatible with current software for easy operation and programming.
• Maintenance Records – A good record keeping on maintenance activities done gives an idea about caring for it or how long more it might last.
• Warranty or Service Agreement – Additional assurance can be obtained from availability of ongoing warranties or service agreements.

Taking these factors into account in a confusingly dynamic way will help buyers make informed choices when buying second-hand CNC machinery while also reducing risks associated with such transactions hence getting long lasting reliable assets of outstanding performance.

Online Marketplaces vs. Machining Centers

When deciding whether to purchase machining centres or used CNC machines from online platforms, various aspects need to be taken into account as shown by top web resources.

Online Marketplaces:

1. Variety: Websites such as eBay and Machinio give a wider choice by different sellers to choose from which makes it easier for one to compare prices and specifications.
2. Convenience: Many listings are accessible on one site thereby enabling people who may not want to travel long distances get what they need easily without leaving their homes.
3. User Reviews and Ratings: Buyers can read through reviews left behind by other users about certain products or sellers; this helps them know if those goods are reliable enough or not. They can also look at seller ratings which show how much trust buyers have in sellers based on previous transactions made with them.

Machining Centres:

1. Expertise: Staff members working at places like HILLARY Machinery and CNC Exchange possess vast knowledge relating to these devices thus making it possible for them offer advice tailored towards individual needs along with detailed information concerning each machine being sold there.
2. Quality Control Measures: Such establishments usually do thorough inspections before selling any item so that customers would get better quality products which perform effectively over an extended period. At the same time, they carry out necessary refurbishments where required thereby enhancing reliability even more.
3. After-Sales Support: Technical assistance agreements warranties service support systems are some things that can be provided by machining centers once sales have been completed; through this clients will be guaranteed continued guidance whenever necessary besides having peace of mind knowing that help is always available whenever required.

In conclusion, either of these two options may be chosen depending on what a buyer prioritizes most among other things – convenience & range found within online platforms vis-a-vis expert advice given plus additional guarantees offered by machining centres.

How Does the Cost of a CNC Machine Compare to Other Machines?

CNC Laser vs. Laser Cutter Costs

When it comes to comparing CNC lasers and laser cutters in terms of their costs, there are certain aspects that need to be taken into account. On the whole, CNC lasers tend to be pricier than ordinary laser cutters because they possess more functions like higher accuracy, integration with intricate computer-aided designs, and wider applicability across industries, among others. The starting cost for a CNC laser machine may vary from $8,000 up to over $ 100,000 depending on specifications and brand alike, whereas regular laser cutting machines, which are used mostly for less complicated tasks, can typically go for anything between $ 2,000 and $ 15,000. Additionally, operational and maintenance expenses also differ, whereby more specialized care might be necessary for CNC lasers, thus potentially leading to higher running costs due to their level of sophistication. Hence, although requiring greater initial investment, cnc lasers provide improved flexibility along with precision, thereby suiting them better for demanding industrial applications.

Comparison Between CNC Plasma Cutters and 3D Printer Pricing

It is important to look at different technical parameters and their industrial applications when comparing the prices of CNC plasma cutters and 3D printers.

CNC Plasma Cutters:

• Price Range: $10,000 – $300,000+.
• Capabilities: Excellent for high-precision speedy metal cutting. Good for heavy-duty industrial use.

Technical Parameters:

• Thickness of Cutting: Up to four inches for steel.
• Speed of Cutting: Can go up to 300 inches per minute.
• Power Consumption: Normally between 100 amperes and 200 amperes.
• Service: The torch and consumables should be serviced regularly.

3D Printers:

• Price Range: $200 – $100,000+.
• Capabilities: Used mainly in making prototypes, models, and small-scale production through additive manufacturing using various materials like plastics, metals, composites etc.

Technical Parameters:

• Resolution of Layering: Between 50 microns and 300 microns.
• Printing Speeds: Usually around 10 mm/s – 100 mm/s.
• Build Volumes: Common printers have volumes around ~200 x 200 x 200 mm with much larger sizes available on industrial models.
• Compatible Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, resins; advanced models offer specialty filaments too.

To summarize, CNC plasma cutters are a bit more expensive initially, but they can cut through tough materials that no other machine can, which makes them necessary for heavy industry. On the contrary side, however,3d printers start at lower price points as they become increasingly complex towards higher-end models where cost rises exponentially; this, combined with its ability to create almost anything from prototypes all way up to light manufacturing, makes it incredibly versatile.

Overall Cost Comparison: CNC Machines and Traditional Machining Tools

Several things need to be thought about when comparing the cost of CNC machines with traditional machining tools; these are initial purchase price, operating costs, maintenance and productivity.

1. Initial Purchase Price: Generally, CNC machines have a higher starting expense as compared to traditional machining tools. This is mainly because they are advanced in terms of technology and automation capabilities which are integrated into CNC systems. Traditional lathes, mills among others have got a lower entry cost.
2. Operating Costs: Over time, labor costs tend to decrease with the use of CNCs due to their low demand for manual intervention. When optimized correctly, they also prove to be more energy efficient. On the other hand, traditional machining tools usually involve higher labor costs since skilled operators must be employed and control done manually.
3. Maintenance: Because of complex electronic components coupled with mechanical ones; maintenance fees charged on CNC machines might turn out very expensive. To keep them at par with performance expectations, software updates should be carried out on a regular basis alongside precision calibration. However, this may not hold true for traditional machining tools because though their maintenance activities are less intricate, frequent servicing might be necessary as a result of manual nature coupled with wear & tear effects experienced by mechanical parts.
4. Productivity: In terms of speed and accuracy there is no match for cnc machines; hence they remain unmatched especially when it comes to precision work where wastage should be minimized. Higher efficiency is achieved through continuous running without much downtime since these machines can operate throughout the day or night, thus saving time that would have been wasted during warm-up periods between jobs. Nonetheless, this cannot be said about traditional machining tools, which normally take longer hours in production, thereby leading to even higher material wastage, hence increasing operational expenses over a period of time.

In simple terms, even though the initial investment required by cncs tends to be greater than that demanded by conventional devices such as mills or lathes, savings achieved on operating expenditure together with enhanced productivity levels can make lots of difference within long-run operational environments.

Reference sources

Numerical control

Router (woodworking)

CNC router

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the average cost of a CNC machine?

A: The price of a CNC machine will vary greatly depending on various factors. For instance, small desktop models can be as cheap as $200, while industrial-grade ones, like a CNC milling machine, can cost up to $250000.

Q: What are the factors that affect CNC machine costs?

A: Some things that could impact the cost of a CNC machine include its size, control system complexity, cutting tools used type (e.g., laser), and materials processed, among others such as programmability and automatic tool changers.

Q: How much does an average CNC mill cost?

A: Most people should expect to spend between $10000 and $100000 when buying a CNC milling machine. The cost of these machines varies widely, but it mainly depends on their precision size and additional capabilities. Such features would definitely hike up its prices, too.

Q: Are there cheap options for hobbyists who want to buy their personal use machines?

A: Yes! There are plenty of affordable options designed for home use or smaller projects by individuals with limited budgets. Prices can range anywhere from below $500 to past $2,000, so it’s worth shopping around if you’re looking for one at this price point!

Q: What else should I budget for when purchasing my first-ever cnc unit?

A: In addition to the purchase itself, you’ll have other ongoing expenses related to maintaining and using your new equipment. Expect costs related to maintenance software programming, training programmers, etcetera, as well as possible upgrades in machining processes later down the line!

Q: What are the most popular CNC machines available on the market?

A: The best CNC machines will depend on your specific needs and applications. However, Haas, Mazak, and Tormach are some well-known brands. You can find various machines from these reputable brands. Ensure that you research a manufacturer who provides support and features that meet your requirements for a CNC machine tool. Make sure the necessary support and features are included in your chosen CNC machine.

Q: What kinds of CNC machines are there?

A: Some types of CNC machines include milling machines, lathes, laser cutters, grinders, routers, and plasma cutting machines. There is a variety of them to match different needs. Each one is designed for particular machining processes or applications depending on what you need it for.

Q: What does a CNC router machine do?

A: A common use for a CNC router machine is to cut or shape sheet metal, wood, or plastic materials. This type of versatile machine tool is often used in woodworking shops as well as metal fabrication facilities among other places where precision and efficiency matter most during production processes within such industries. From woodworking to metal fabrication – these applications can be carried out by cnc routers.

Q: How does size affect cost?

A: Usually bigger sizes result in more expensive costs when it comes to purchasing these types of machinery; this is so because larger units generally have enhanced capabilities that enable them to handle bigger workpieces but also require additional materials during assembly and hence take a longer time before completion thereby necessitating utilization of complex control systems ultimately contributing towards overall higher prices involved with acquiring such pieces.

Q: What are cnc machining services? Are they cost-effective alternatives?

A: Companies that offer custom machining work using cnc machines provide cnc machining services. If you cannot afford to buy one, then this may be an option for you instead of not having any at all; it could be cheaper compared to continuously producing high-volume parts where precision matters but once in a while or occasionally needed. Outsourcing machining work saves capital investment and maintenance costs for machines which can be optimized through their use elsewhere.