If you want to ask a CNC machining question, please fill in the form, there are several FAQ’s below regarding CNC machining.
these also have links to more in-depth information about each subject.
Here are the answers when people ask a CNC Machining question.
What materials do you offer for CNC machined parts and what are the key considerations in selecting one?
We offer a wide range of materials including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, brass, various plastics, and titanium. Key factors in selecting a material include strength requirements, weight restrictions, corrosion resistance needs, thermal properties, machinability, and cost. We can advise you on the optimal material for your particular application based on these considerations.
What manufacturing tolerances can you consistently achieve?
Our state-of-the-art CNC machines and rigorous quality control procedures allow us to consistently achieve tolerances within ±0.005 inches. Even tighter tolerances are possible depending on part geometries and selected materials. Please consult with our engineering team if your application requires precisions tighter than ±0.005 inches.
What surface finish options do you provide?
Standard machine finishes are raw machined or anodized. Additional finishes including powder coating, wet paint, or various metal platings are available for an upcharge. Cosmetic requirements, corrosion protection, wear resistance, and other functional aspects should be balanced with budget considerations when selecting surface finishes.
Is there a minimum order quantity and what lead times can you commit to?
Our minimum order quantity is typically 10 pieces for simple parts and 5 pieces for complex components. However, in certain instances, we can accommodate orders for single prototypes. Standard production lead times range from 3-10 business days for most applications. Lead times can extend longer for intricate geometries requiring additional programming efforts. Rush services may also be possible with an upcharge.
What quality control and inspection procedures do you employ?
We utilize a comprehensive quality management system for Dimensional Inspection and CMM Reports. All machined components are individually checked against client drawings and tolerances before shipment. Additional quality control procedures such as First Article Inspections, sampling rates, and client witnessing of inspections can be incorporated per project needs and specifications.
Do you offer design for manufacturability services and prototyping?
Yes, we can provide Design for Manufacturability reviews during the quoting process to identify any design changes that could simplify machining and reduce overall costs before committing to production. We also offer in-house rapid prototyping services for concept verification and fit checks before batch production.
What file formats do your CNC machines accept for programming?
We can program directly from native CAD file formats including STEP, IGES, X_T, and SolidWorks. For 3D contours, STL files are preferred. Kindly submit your models in one of these file types to avoid any requoting or rework fees.
How are parts priced and what cost drivers should I be mindful of?
Part pricing is dependent on material selection, size, geometric complexity, tolerances, and order quantity. Requesting a formal RFQ with drawings is the best way to receive an accurate quote. Secondary operations like finishing or post-machining quality checks can also add cost. Please consult our engineers early in the design phase to maximize cost efficiency.
