CNC punching machines can be quite expensive to buy, and there are often many additional costs involved in addition to the initial purchase price of the machine. It is wise to factor in these costs before making any purchase to avoid any shock!
Machine Purchase Price
A basic entry level single station CNC punching machine could start from around £15,000 / £30,000 for a basic system, while a basic turret punch press with more automation would start from around £60,000 / £150,000 or more for a basic system. In addition to the cost of the machine itself it is also worth bearing in mind the size, tonnage, throat depth and the method of sheet handling of any proposed machine to ensure that the chosen machine will be capable of meeting your exact requirements on a day to day basis rather than just having excess capacity that will never be used.
Tooling and Punch Dies
It’s also important to remember that the cost of tooling for a CNC punching machine is often the biggest cost that a buyer fails to calculate correctly. For a basic set of punch and die stations for a CNC punching machine this can start from around £2,000 for a basic set of standard tooling and go up to around £8,000 or more for a similar amount of more specialist form or shaped tools. Then there is the wear and tear on the tooling, and the cost of replacing them on an annual basis. This should be allowed for in the annual running costs of the machine, as opposed to a one off cost.
Installation and Electrical Supply
Please note that most machines require a three-phase supply. The cost of the supply upgrade can vary from £1,500 to £5,000 or more, depending on how far from the distribution board the supply run is. Also consider the cost of foundations, and extraction equipment and even the hire of a crane to position the machine in your workshop.
A useful reference for CNC Punching Machines is https://www.cotswold-machinery-sales.co.uk/euromac-bending-machines/punching-machines/.
Maintenance and Consumables
Maintenance costs – as a percentage of the original cost of the machine – are typically 2 – 5% per annum to cover servicing, wear parts, etc. The stripping of tool maintenance work is typically classed as consumable work and can increase rapidly in a busy shift pattern.
Software and CAM Licences
CAM software licenses can range in price from £1,000 to £4,000 per seat, plus annual maintenance fees on top of this. Often the supplier of the machine will bundle in a basic nesting program, but do make sure you check what is included before signing the machine off.
Add up all 5 categories above to get a true picture of the machine cost before you commit to purchase.