To know the difference between CNC machining and die casting, first you need to know what die casting is and what CNC is. This article will tell you the difference between die casting and CNC

What is die casting?

Die casting is a manufacturing process that involves pouring molten metal into a mold to form a specific shape. The mold is made of two halves clamped together, and the molten metal is injected into the mold under high pressure. After the metal cools and solidifies, the mold is opened and the finished product is removed.

There are two main types of die casting: hot chamber die casting and cold chamber die casting. In hot chamber die casting, the molten metal is kept in a furnace connected to the die casting machine. The metal is then injected into the mold using a piston driven by hydraulic pressure.

In cold chamber die casting, the molten metal is placed in a separate furnace and is manually transferred to the die casting machine. The metal is then injected into the mold using a piston driven by hydraulic pressure.

What is CNC machining?

CNC machining is a manufacturing process that involves using a computer-controlled machine to remove material from a solid block of material to create a specific shape. The process is usually used to make metal parts, but it can also be used for plastics and other materials.

CNC machines follow a computer program written by the designer. The program tells the machine how to move and where to cut, and the machine uses cutting tools to remove material from the block until the desired shape is achieved.

Materials

Die casting is commonly used for metals such as aluminum, zinc, and magnesium. CNC machining can be used for a wider range of materials, including plastics, wood, and metals.

Complexity

Die casting is best suited for making complex shapes with intricate details. CNC machining is better suited for making simple shapes with less detail.

Surface Finish

Die casting produces a smoother surface finish than CNC machining. However, CNC machining can produce a smoother surface finish with additional polishing.

Production Volume

Die casting is best suited for high-volume production, while CNC machining is better suited for low to medium-volume production.

Cost

Die casting is generally more expensive than CNC machining due to the cost of the molds and the setup time. CNC machining is generally cheaper, especially for low-volume production.

Lead Time

Die casting generally requires a long lead time due to the time required to make the molds. CNC machining has a shorter lead time because the program can be set up quickly so that the machine can start cutting immediately.