In the field of precision parts manufacturing, CNC machining has become the mainstream process due to its advantages of high precision and automation. However, many customers and newcomers in the industry often ask, “How long does it take to CNC machine a part?” To answer this question, we need to first understand the influencing mechanism of CNC machining time.
The CNC machining time is not a fixed value. It is the result of the interweaving of multiple factors such as machine tool operation, process planning, and part characteristics. From the perspective of the machining process, it covers links such as programming and debugging, blank clamping, cutting, and quality inspection, and there are time variables in each link. For example, programming a simple part may only take about ten minutes, while programming and debugging a complex curved part may take several hours or even longer.
The performance of the machine tool is an important factor affecting the machining time. A high-performance machine tool with high rotation speed and fast feed rate can greatly improve the machining efficiency. For instance, a five-axis  machining center equipped with an advanced servo system can increase the machining efficiency by more than 50% compared to an ordinary three-axis machine tool when machining complex molds. In addition, the performance of the cutting tool cannot be ignored. A high-quality cutting tool with good wear resistance and sharpness can reduce the number of tool changes and shorten the machining time.
The characteristics of the part itself have a profound impact on the machining duration. Materials with different hardness levels have significant differences in machining difficulty and time consumption. For softer materials like aluminum alloy, the cutting resistance is small, and the machining efficiency is high. However, materials with high hardness and strong toughness such as titanium alloy and quenched steel not only have limited cutting speed but also cause rapid tool wear, resulting in a multiple increase in machining time. The complexity of the part structure is also crucial. For simple and regular parts, such as cylindrical pins, only a few processes like turning are required, and it can be completed in a few minutes. But for the blades of aircraft engines, due to their complex curved surface structure, multi-axis machining is needed, and multiple processes such as rough machining, semi-finishing, and finishing are involved, and the machining time often takes several hours or even more than ten hours.
So, how long does it actually take to CNC machine a part? Generally speaking, for simple and regular small parts, such as ordinary bolts and gaskets, the machining time is usually between a few minutes and half an hour. For parts of medium complexity, such as conventional mechanical connection parts, the machining time is approximately 1 to 3 hours. For complex and precision parts in fields such as aerospace and medical devices, the machining time may range from several hours to several days. Of course, these are only rough estimates, and the actual machining time needs to be determined according to the specific requirements of the part, the condition of the equipment, and the process arrangement. In our factory, we will formulate an exclusive machining plan for each part, and reasonably control the machining time while ensuring the precision to provide customers with efficient services.