What is typically considered a disadvantage of roughing operations?

In the context of machining operations, roughing is primarily focused on removing large amounts of material from a workpiece quickly, which typically results in a finish that is not smooth. The intention behind roughing is efficiency and speed in shaping the initial form of the component, rather than producing a refined surface finish. As such, a roughing operation often leaves behind tool marks and an uneven surface that will later need to be smoothed out during finishing operations. This is an important aspect to understand because it highlights the role of different machining processes in production, where roughing serves as a preparatory step for more precise operations that are designed to achieve the desired surface quality. Consequently, while roughing is essential for the overall manufacturing process, its inherent characteristics result in a finish that is generally not acceptable for final products without subsequent finishing processes.