Top 10 Industries that Rely on CNC Machining (by Market Size)
Top 10 Industries that Rely on CNC Machining (by Market Size)
This report ranks the top 10 industries that rely most on CNC machining, based on market size, precision requirements, and manufacturing intensity. Data reflects the latest available global industry research from 2024–2025.
Key Market Insights
• The global CNC machine tools market is estimated at around USD 95–110 billion.
• The precision machining market is projected to reach USD 193.5 billion in 2025.
• The global machining market (including CNC) is estimated at USD 402.6 billion in 2024.
• Aerospace parts manufacturing reached USD 913 billion in 2023.
• Automotive manufacturing equipment (including CNC) is projected at USD 32 billion in 2025.
Ranked Industries by Market Size and CNC Dependence
1. Aerospace & Defense
Massive global market (~US$913 billion in 2023). High reliance on CNC for precision parts such as turbine blades, airframe structures, and landing gear. Materials include titanium, Inconel, and aluminum.
2. Automotive
Global automotive production heavily depends on CNC machining for engines, transmission housings, molds, and tooling. Equipment market ~US$32 billion in 2025.
3. Electronics & Semiconductor
Precision CNC parts are used for enclosures, molds, and fixtures. The market is large due to demand for semiconductor equipment and high-tech manufacturing.
4. Medical & Dental
Rapidly growing segment. CNC machining is essential for implants, surgical tools, and prosthetics. High precision and biocompatibility requirements.
5. Industrial Equipment & Automation
Includes robotics, factory systems, and heavy machinery. CNC machining ensures precision for gears, frames, and mechanical assemblies.
6. Oil, Gas & Energy
CNC machining supports valve bodies, pumps, and turbine components. Operates in extreme conditions, requiring tight tolerances and material integrity.
7. Tool & Die / Moldmaking
Foundational CNC market segment. Used for injection molds, dies, and fixtures. High complexity and accuracy demands.
8. Consumer Products
Used for prototyping, molds, and low-volume precision parts. CNC reliance is lower relative to the overall market size.
9. Marine & Shipbuilding
Used for propeller shafts, housings, and corrosion-resistant parts. Smaller CNC share compared to automotive/aerospace.
10. Electronics Hardware & Telecommunications
CNC machining is used for enclosures, mounts, and connectors in communication and high-frequency applications.
Key Takeaways
• The largest CNC machining demand (by dollar value) is in the aerospace and automotive sectors.
• High-growth sectors include medical/dental and electronics manufacturing.
• Although the consumer and marine industries are large, CNC's share of manufacturing spend is smaller.
• CNC machining continues to expand across all advanced manufacturing sectors.