While CNC machining offers significant advantages, it's essential to consider some limitations when choosing this method for polycarbonate parts:

l Limited to Prototype or Low Volume Production: For high-volume production runs, CNC machining might be less cost-effective compared to injection molding. Injection molding offers faster production speeds and lower per-unit costs when producing large quantities of identical parts.

l Material Waste: The CNC machining process generates scrap material as the machine removes sections of the polycarbonate block to create the desired part. Depending on the complexity of the part design, this waste can be significant. For parts with intricate features or thin walls, minimizing waste requires careful design optimization.

l Machining Expertise Required: Operating CNC machines requires skilled personnel with knowledge of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software, programming languages (like G-code), and machining techniques. Optimizing cutting parameters, tool selection, and machining strategies is crucial for achieving desired results and maximizing efficiency.