How to choose a CNC Machining shop
Every CNC machining job requires absolute precision. Any variation, even in the slightest, can greatly influence the final part and its application. Technology and quality are key factors when fabricating parts. It is important to hedge your investment in technology. CNC lathes are the best option for machining specific components with the highest level precision and reliability. Do you want to learn more about precision machining? Do you need to complete a machining job but don’t know how to choose a machining center? On this post, we’ll outline some basic criteria to help you select the right company.
Technological advances, coupled with increased competition, has pressured manufacturing companies to work more efficiently and to increase productivity. This evolution demands a greater speed for completing jobs and high precision machining. The ultimate goal for any company is to avoid delays and cut costs in order to remain competitive.
If you’re a project manager, you may be well aware of the importance of selecting the right CNC machining center for the job. It can help your company guarantee the successful development of your prototype and subsequent manufacturing of your project.
What should I consider before choosing a cnc machining center?
1. Technology requirements
There are a fairly large number of solutions with varying pricing and quality. Before you begin, you must be clear about the specific needs of your business or project. Consider the:
- geometry and dimensions of your part
- number of parts required
- tools needed (i.e. drills, cutting tools, milling cutters)
- optimal number of axes for machining
According to your specific part requirements, there are 3 types of machining technologies that can be used:
- CNC Swiss Type Lathe: turns complex products with high accuracy with up to 14 motion axes. It can produce a series of up to 1 million units with a diameter range of Ø 1 – 32 mm and 1,500 mm length.
- CNC Shop Turn Lathes: used for smaller series with a diameter range of Ø 1 – 170 mm and 350 mm length.
- Conventional Milling Machine: usually suitable for less complex milling in smaller batches.
Every machining service consists of removing excess material by shaving or cutting with a precision tool.
2. Versatility
The machining center you are going to choose must count with machinery capable of producing a wide variety of parts. The latest CNC lathes allow for the manufacturing of various parts of different sizes and materials. Due to their flexibility, CNC lathes are suitable for many different purposes. They can be programmed in a short period of time to produce a totally different part. Since reprogramming is cost and time effective, CNC can accommodate short and long production runs. Determine if the CNC machining shop can accommodate your needs in terms of capacity.
The benefit of employing a machining center with CNC technology is that they can fulfill all your production needs within their facilities. It means you can get all your machining parts from a single supplier. If the entire machining process occurs in a single center, it will reduce the manufacturing time and parts will be delivered faster.
3. Precision
Make sure you select a turning center that invests in the latest technology for its CAD and CAM software systems. Afterall, that’s what controls the entire manufacturing process on a CNC lathe. The computerized control of movements guarantees that each part is identical to each other. In addition to the CNC equipment, the ideal turning center should have qualified, professional operators. They should be well versed with the CAD/CAM software in order to oversee the precise manufacture of your parts.
Precision is perhaps the most important factor to consider when choosing a CNC service provider. Determine whether the CNC machine shop can meet your tolerance requirements in terms of precision standards.
Ask the CNC machining center for examples of their previous work. If you feel like the quality of their work is up to your standards and expectations, ask them for a prototype of your part. Carefully inspect the prototype. Most importantly, use this opportunity to gauge if this machining center would be the right partner for you. Do they meet deadlines? Do they listen to your needs? Do you enjoy working with them?
4. Productivity
A machining center with CNC equipment can achieve higher levels of productivity than traditional turning centers. A CNC lathe is programmed to perform a complex series of actions. Due to its high levels of automation, it requires very little human intervention. Eliminating human labor from the manufacturing process means longer production runs with minimal stops to reprogram the machine. In turn, this increases the level of productivity.
The distinguishing factor between different turning centers in terms of productivity is their protocol for delivering orders. Be wary of companies that get bogged down by process logistics. Select a company that’s flexible to your changing needs and deadlines. A reputable CNC machine company will understand that sometimes it’s necessary to expedite orders. The ideal turning center will work with you to deliver the parts you need on your schedule.
5. Quality assurance
A reputable CNC machining center will have well-established quality assurance protocols and equipment. It guarantees precise results which can be duplicated. Make sure your CNC service provider takes care of every detail in the manufacturing process (i.e. size, shape, dimension, and materials). Quality assurance can eliminate downtime caused by re-processing or re-adjustment. Before you choose a CNC service provider, ask about their quality assurance facilities and procedures.
6. Experience
The years of experience of a CNC machining company is a testament to how well their products and services are able to meet the needs of their customers. Select a company with a team of highly skilled professionals with a long track record. Working with an experienced CNC service provider will ensure that your parts are processed accurately from design to final product. They will thoroughly understand your request and ensure you receive exactly what you want and to the quality standards you expect.
Experienced CNC service providers will be able to guide you through the manufacturing process. They can advise you on the type of material required and help you optimize your part design.
7. Specific treatments
Our last recommendation is to consider the final step of the manufacturing process – treatments, cleaning, and additional services. It can be the deciding factor between different CNC service companies. The application of different treatments on the parts can help improve their resilience and durability. It can help protect your parts from exposure to the elements (i.e. humidity, heat, and cold).
Cleaning is very important in CNC machining. Check the cleaning procedures of the service provider and make sure they can guarantee your parts will be degreased to the required surface tension.
Surface treatments, such as chrome plating or galvanization, can effectively reduce friction and wear on manufactured parts. Consider the application of your parts and ask the CNC service provider if a surface treatment is appropriate.
What CNC machining services does Marvo offer?
Marvo counts with many years of experience in manufacturing machining parts for all types of precision applications across different industries. We offer several CNC machining options capable of producing high-quality parts for small and large-scale production. Thanks to our state-of-the-art technology and skilled operators, we can manufacture unique parts with high precision. Request a quote today.