CNC Cutting Machine Practice Test

What is a significant disadvantage of CNC machining?

1. Reduction of manual labour leading to redundancies

2. High speed of production

3. Increased flexibility in processes

4. Lower skill level required for operators

The correct answer is: Reduction of manual labour leading to redundancies

The significant disadvantage of CNC machining is primarily tied to the reduction of manual labor leading to redundancies. As CNC machines automate the manufacturing process, they often replace the need for skilled labor in various machining tasks. This shift can result in job losses as companies increasingly rely on machines for precision and efficiency rather than human labor. The automation and precision provided by CNC technology indeed streamline production processes, but this can also create a workforce challenge. Workers may find their skills are becoming obsolete, leading to fewer job opportunities in traditional machining roles. This transition, while beneficial in terms of efficiency and output, poses a significant concern for workforce management and social dynamics, as many workers may struggle to adapt to new roles or retrain for positions better suited to the modern requirements of manufacturing. While high speed of production, increased flexibility in processes, and a lower skill level requirement for operators are advantages that CNC machining offers, they do not convey the same level of adverse impact on employment as the reduction of manual labor does. Each of these points lends itself to understanding why the transition to CNC machining has broader implications in terms of job security and the need for workforce development to accommodate changing technologies.