Why Precision Machining Is The Right Choice For High-Volume Requirements

by | May 20, 2021 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining, Machine Shop

Precision Machining

Precision machining is a growing trend among machine shops and experienced machinists, and it’s not a lost manufacturing process. We know the importance of precision machining in manufacturing precision parts; components of many tools and applications in various industries.

Precision machining has overcome the traditional methods and is estimated to surpass $94.42 billion by approx 2026. Every industry relies on machined parts using precision machining to:

● Create custom machined parts from raw materials
● Helps to fabricate metals into individual components
● Machine cast parts straight from the mould

But what is the reason precision machining is so effective? How does it help you to make better-machined parts?

This article helps to identify how precision machining is better for creating the products, and how your company can use it for high volume requirements.

Let’s Begin With The Benefits Of Precision Machining:

 

#1. Fast turnaround time

The turnaround time gets reduced during precision machining because of the use of advanced software capabilities. Now, it’s easier for the machinists to go from a design to the finished product in an easy way.

Using a precision manufacturing process reduces the manual work. It helps to reduce the design time, which use to take months now can be completed within weeks.

Our experts understand our clients and works towards their specifications. Our team offers turnaround services and delivers quality machined parts according to the client’s deadline. That is why our service adds value to our clients in various industries.

We produce accurately machined parts with high tolerances by leveraging precision machining that helps us to perform repetitive tasks. We ensure that our components remain consistent even during the larger runs.

Another advantage of precision machining is that it requires little or no supervision and works non-stop with the same accuracy in replicating the same machined part.

#2. Ideal for prototype designs

The prototype design is necessary before finalizing the manufacturing of the machined parts. Prototypes are designed with the product specifications.

Our team provides prototype machining services for smaller and independent manufacturers where the companies are developing new products. Our experts believe in high-quality parts, made right the first time. We deliver prototypes that match the design intent.

No company wants to take the risk when they are producing a high volume of machined parts. Therefore prototype design testing is an ideal thing to do.

At Machining Design Association, we produce parts with our subtractive manufacturing process. With us providing parts from prototype to high production it becomes a seamless transition. We make manufacturing simplified with cost-effective options aligned to the customer’s needs.

#3. Less labor and it lowers costs

Since precision machining provides a fast turnaround time and most of the work is done by the CNC machine, there is less need for manual work. It improves the reliability that is crucial in the manufacturing process.

It’s common sense that there would be less chance of human error during the process when there is less human input in the process. But you cannot neglect the human presence during the precision machining process. The machine shops require skilled employees during high volume production.

It helps the company to reduce the number of laborers that are necessary to work on the machinery. It reduces the overall cost of the parts that is manufactured.

Most industries require tight tolerances for their precision machined parts, and it is a costly manufacturing process depending on the machines used. With the implementation of precision machining, manufacturing machined parts with high tolerances has become affordable.

 

#4. Precision machining can handle most complex projects

Precision machining takes care of complex projects that are of high volume. Most of our clients know that at MDA, we work on complex projects that allow our clients to have access to
Low-cost production.

Precision machining helps to deliver 3-D dimensional shapes that are complex and not possible with traditional machining methods. Plus the precision machining has the repeatability capability allowing companies to produce the material with no defects and variation. These companies include medical industries, aerospace industries and oil and gas industries.

 

Reasons highlighting the importance of precision machining in the machine shops

● Ideal for qualitative and quantitative production: This is possible with the help of precision machining. The machine shop’s machinists can produce components in high volume while maintaining the quality.

● Helps to stay ahead of the competition: There is competition across all areas in machining. A machine shop must do everything possible to differentiate oneself from their competition. Making sure that the latest equipment is used, the most up to date software and having qualified personal. Not all machine shops are the same.

 

Summing It Up

Precision machining is a very important aspect in any machine shop. In providing quality parts at very competitive prices; our customers, have a competitive advantage. Knowing that parts will arrive on-time and without defect, assures that their end user will be happy. It takes so many parts to keep the gears turning. If one part is defective or not available, the wheel will stop turning. Machining Design will partner with you to assure that the precision machine parts that you order will be to your satisfaction. You can contact us at MDA.

 

How We Keep Employees Safe During Coronavirus Outbreak

by | Apr 8, 2020 | CNC Machine Shop

Corona-Virus

The number of cases of coronavirus is increasing rapidly and so are the rumors and misinformation related to it. There is also a lack of information on how to remain safe if you are working.

There are some industries that are still running amid the coronavirus outbreak. One of the prime examples is the machining industry. Under government orders, certain machining companies are deemed essential and are up and running. In order to supply other essential services.

We at MDA, are taking every precautionary measure to prevent coronavirus from spreading into the workplace. Here are some of the practices at MDA that are followed during the outbreak.

Steps to Keep Employees Safe

We are all in this together and as a manufacturing company, we have to take extra precautions for our employees.

Handling employees who are at high-risk of coronavirus:

Any employee who might be showing signs of the Coronavirus must stay home.  Any employee who traveled abroad must self-quarantine for a minimum of 14 days.  We encourage frequent hand washing – sanitizing of workspace-wearing of masks and social distancing. 

 

Making our employees feel safe at work:

  • Sanitization of all CNC machines: We follow a strict routine for the sanitization of the workplace. The sanitization of the machines is necessary to reduce the spread of the virus. Our workers clean the machines first, before working on them. We also encourage our employees to wear gloves while working and using disposable wipes to clean the working area fist.

 

  • Encouraging them to wash hands: We have made it compulsory for the employees to wash their hands before working and social distancing from other employees. To further emphasize these measures, we have created a poster campaign with ‘wash your hands’ posters strategically placed throughout the office to raise awareness for the employees; our team has maintained an adequate supply of antibacterial hand wash.

 

  • Asking employees to maintain social distancing: We make sure that employees keep a safe distance between them. We have conducted meetings with the employees and created awareness about social distancing.

 

  • Creating working shifts for employees: We understand the importance of shifts during this pandemic and have to give our employees a chance to work in shifts. This will help with our social distancing initiatives. The shifts are decided on the basis of the availability of the employees.

 

Conclusion 

The safety of our employees is of the upmost importance.  We at MDA are still working during these unprecedented times, providing essential services for essential industries.  We are taking every precaution to continue to do so.

 

 

Why Your Company Needs CNC Machining Services In 2024

by | Apr 6, 2020 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining

CNC Machinng Solutions

In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, precision, speed, and cost-efficiency are crucial. As we move into 2024, CNC machining services stand out as essential for businesses looking to stay ahead. Offering unmatched precision, consistency, and productivity while reducing waste, CNC machining can significantly enhance your operations. Let’s explore why investing in CNC machining services is a smart move for your company this year.

Application of CNC Machining in Industries

All businesses need CNC machined parts with high precision and top-notch consistency. Here are some industries that use CNC machining for their needs:

Aerospace: Every industry needs precision machining and that’s what CNC machining is capable of doing. This is important in aircraft travel parts like aircraft turbine engines. The aerospace industry favors CNC machining as it offers 5-axis machining. Aerospace is one of the top industries that rely on custom CNC machined parts.

Aerospace

Military: There is a broad need for CNC machining in the military, where the nameplates and other things are built. The precision is produced by CNC machining which fits perfectly with the military sector.

Construction: The equipment and tools to construct things and the materials which are used to build them which involves CNC machining. It’s also the answer for an architectural style like statues and many more.

Electronics: The parts inside the computers and motherboards also have plenty of tiny parts that should work with proper consistency every time. The hardware electronic items have panels, tiny wires, metal slates, and other parts that CNC machining serves pretty well. We at MDA deliver tailor-made solutions for electronics machined parts.

Equipment: Heavy and light, big and small equipment involves CNC machining in one way or another. CNC machining will be included in plenty of stages during the creation of the machined parts.

Electronics

Transportation: Nearly all modes of ground transport include CNC machining which includes rail, transit and others. From the large sheets which make up the bodies of the vehicles and electronics involved in transportation, this is done because of the CNC machining.

How CNC Machining can benefit your business?

MDA offers a complete range of CNC machining services and is a one-stop-shop for all your manufacturing needs. Our CNC programmers have vast experience to help you with any project. Here are the key highlights of the CNC machining service at MDA:

CNC machining helps in automation: The main benefit of CNC custom machining is the effect on easing the automation as it removes the dependency of the machinist during the building process. It makes possible to leave the CNC machines unattended and allow the operators to concentrate on other areas. CNC machines work faster than the operators since they work more quickly, never take any breaks and can run late at night where a human operator can’t work. This works in favor of businessmen as it will only increase the profit of the organization.

Consistent outputs: CNC machining will produce a precise outcome each time, even the most capable human operator can exhibit minor differences when the products are finished. In the case of a CNC machine, they are sure to produce precise results all the time. Nowadays, consistency is important and while designing the machined parts, it becomes a necessity. All you require is a CNC machine, that will work as much you want, producing the machined parts as quickly as you want and that too with complete precision.

CNC machines provide flexibility: Humans are more adaptable and trainable than machines but with CNC machines it’s easier to re-program them in a few hours to get an entirely different product. This flexibility gives CNC machines a competitive advantage over other devices as they don’t require a total revamp of the parts. Adaptability also ensures that CNC machines to stay in touch with ever-changing demands as they can change with time from creating parts in bulk to design components in short supply.

Better safety for the worker: There are operators involved that use CNC machines, but these are at a safe distance from the sharp tools, whereas it’s not safe for the operators of conventional manual machines, drill punches and tools that can come in direct contact with who implements.

CNC machines are versatile: CNC machining can create virtually any component which you can imagine, some models include special features and accessories that will simplify the whole production process like for example, touch screens and automated tool chargers.

Choosing a CNC Machining Company

There are lots of things to know before choosing a CNC machining company, it’s more than just searching for the CNC machining companies which are near to you. MDA ticks all the right boxes for a CNC machining company. Here are some reasons on why choose MDA for your CNC machining needs:

  • Accuracy: Here at MDA the parts are created with utmost accuracy and meet the standards needed by the clients. We are able to bring out the parts which will fit your accuracy and we use the latest technology in the machining process.
  • High-quality products: We are able to provide machined parts that are used to develop high-quality products. We can create machined parts from medical tools to electronics to aerospace. Our parts cater to almost every industry.
  • Custom finishes: We offer a wide variety of custom surface finishes for CNC machining which gives a textured finish for the grip and usability.

 

Conclusion

The use of CNC machines is a perfect move for industries like defense, medical, oil and gas, and many more. At an all-time increasing competitive environment, CNC machining helps in developing top-notch products in no time and with less cost. MDA provides bona fide manufacturing consulting services to its customers, which are designed for long-term success. We offer top-of-the-line CNC machining services to enterprises across all vertical industries. For more details, fill out the form here.

 

 

Looking to Hire a CNC Machine Shop? Consider these points.

by | Feb 21, 2019 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining

CNC Machine Shop

Choosing a suitable CNC machine shop can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve not done it before. It’s not just the matter of who delivers the best; the selection process also involves hiring a shop that delivers exactly what you want, faster.

Plus, there are hundreds of CNC machine shops littered across the continent – which could further complicate the entire hiring process. While initial research like references and testimonials might help, there is a lot that is needed to judge a machine shop’s performance.

If you are confused about what to look for in a precision machine shop, here are a few tips to save the day.

Hiring a Precision CNC Machine Shop: A Checklist for Entrepreneurs

Here is a list of the things that can make your CNC machine shop hunt easier.

●  ISO Certification
You can begin the search by filtering out the shops with ISO Certification. The quality management label simply states your shop is equipped enough to provide you the quality machined parts you are looking for.

●  Experience
Next comes the relevant experience the shop comes with. While machining startups are great on their own and could definitely meet your expectations, you might be looking for machinists or shops that have relatively greater experience working with the same industry domain as yours. Chances are they have already delivered order types and sizes similar to your requirement.

●  Machining Capabilities
Machine shops that come with extensive engineering, design, and manufacturing capabilities are always safe to hire. This way you can ensure they’ll be equipped to resolve any technical or product-based limitations that might arise during the machining and manufacturing process. This also guarantees you’ll receive your order on time if all goes well.

●  Variety of Equipment
A machine shop, however small, comes with solid numbers of equipment. They may not be the latest ones – in case of shops that are just starting or the ones on the stage of obsoletion. But, there are many that boast new-age cutting tools and machining equipment. You may choose them solely based on the order size and the precision needed.

●  Offers Prototypes/Sample pieces
Product sampling is very crucial when dealing with large-scale production. However, there are many shops still that don’t offer sample manufactured pieces or prototypes of the design, which might cause production delays and dissatisfaction. Simply eliminate these types of shops from your CNC hunt.

●  Customer Services and Support
CNC machining and manufacturing is more than just shaping raw materials into precision CNC machined parts; it’s also about how the shop deals with the customer requirements. What is the process they follow? Are they transparent in their approach? What is their workforce like? How do they deal with customer queries? In short, acute customer services is crucial in every industry, including in the CNC environment.

Things To Remember Before You Place An Order

So, you have shortlisted a CNC machine shop you deem fit for your requirement. Next comes actually placing an order with them. Wait…

Before you click on the ‘Request A Quote’ button, be sure to check everything. What is the quantity you looking for and can your shop help you with it? And most importantly, what is your requirement, exactly? You don’t want to cause production delays due to material or tolerance shortcomings, do you?

●  Do you have alternatives for the material type you’ve selected?
It’s possible the shop cannot fetch CNC machining material you’ve chosen on-time. Or it could be very expensive, thereby, increasing the production cost. Anyway, having an alternative always helps in long-run.

●  Are you specific with your tolerances?
You need to specify accurate measurements for precision and quality purposes, obviously.

●  Do you know how the product will be developed?
This is considering you’ve done the custom part design yourself. Not considering how it will be developed while designing can lead to an increase in production costs.

Following the tips mentioned above can help you experience smooth and super-productive CNC machining!

________________________________________

Here at Machining Design Associated Ltd., we offer top of the line CNC machining services to businesses across all industry verticals. For more information, fill up the form here.

CNC Machines – The Face of Modern Manufacturing

by | Jan 12, 2018 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining

CNC Machine

Over the past few decades, the world has witnessed a major shift in the high-tech field. From being just a ‘wanted aspect’, it has slowly become a necessity in our everyday lives. New-age technology has made everything more convenient and efficient, regardless of the industry involved.

The computer-aided revolution has made a large impact on the manufacturing world as well. Automated equipment has given us the ability to produce a more precise part in a much shorter time. While CNC machines date back to the late 1950s, they continue to evolve and enhancements are made on a continuous basis. Modern CNC lathes give the operator the ability to produce a part with milled and cross-drilled surfaces. Something that was unavailable just a short time ago.

How has this impacted us:

1.  Reduced Human Efforts
CNC Machines have allowed us a more hands-off approach. Parts can be completed on one machine in one set-up with very little human intervention. Machines can now run lights out; 24 hours a day seven days a week. The equipment can be fed by robotic arms or magazines that hold multiple lengths of raw material. Human error has greatly decreased with the use of this high-tech equipment.

2.  Increased Accuracy in Mass-Production
With these machines being handled by computer controls the chances of non-conforming parts being produced has been greatly reduced. If the machines are programmed correctly from the start and tool wear is monitored, the repeatability of conforming CNC machined parts should be over 99%. Gone are the days when each part was physically manipulated in a turret lathe or manual mill in hopes of achieving repeatability.

3.  Complex Product Development
Multi-axis machines have allowed us to machine parts to greater tolerances and with more complex features. This is something that was very difficult to achieve just a short time ago.

4.  Reliability
The equipment is ready to work every day with just the push of a few buttons. It rarely gets sick and only requires some maintenance and the occasional repair part. The machines are ready to work 24 hours a day. Machines today require much less human interaction and are able to produce parts faster and with more accuracy.

5.  Highly Adaptable
CNC machines are amazingly accommodating. The machines will constantly evolve and new innovations will continue to be introduced. Today we can work with all types of metals and plastics in an efficient and accurate manner.

Types of CNC machines

Generally, there are six types of CNC machines, all used for different purposes and materials:

Milling Machines:  Widely popular. In fact, they might even be the most popular type of CNC machine used today. Milling machines utilize rotary cutters to shape workpieces to perfection. They can be programmed to provide the required depth, angle and cutting direction.

CNC Lathes:  A lathe is utilized to develop highly precise conical and spherical shaped parts. This particular machine uses turning centers wherein the cutting tool shaves off the excess material while the material is rotating on a spindle.

Drilling machines:  CNC drills are highly advanced drilling machines where the speed of the drill and the depth to be drilled is handled by highly sophisticated computer programs.

Screw Machines:  Screw machines are the advanced version of automated lathes. They are used to produce smaller yet complex machined parts for automotive, aerospace, medical and electrical hardware industries.

CNC Grinders: This type of machine utilizes a rotary wheel that abrades the material into the desired shape by repeatedly grinding it.

CNC Plasma Cutters:  Plasma cutters uses plasma beam to cut the materials into 2D shapes.

Materials used by CNC machines

A CNC machine is highly versatile, utilizing almost every type of materials to produce some quality machined parts. From common materials like aluminum, copper to exotic alloys and wood, a CNC machine can handle them all. Here’s a list of the in-demand materials that MDA Ltd. Uses:

Material Type Properties
Brass Highly durable and corrosion resistant
Aluminum Lightweight, malleable, inexpensive
Steel Economical, high strength, versatile
Industrial plastics Versatile, lightweight
Phenolics Heat resistant and durable
Copper Corrosion resistant, versatile, conductor of heat
Stainless steel Corrosion resistant
Alloy steel Tensile, wear resistant
Plywood Wear & tear resistant, dimensionally stable

 

CNC machining has revolutionized the whole Manufacturing industry and it is still improving. It will be quite interesting to see where it can take us in the years to come!!!

Importance of Planning & Strategy Before Starting Your CNC Machining Project

by | Feb 1, 2017 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining, Machine Shop

planning & strategy

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a game-changer in manufacturing, enabling the creation of precise, complex parts for industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices. However, the key to a successful CNC machining project goes beyond having advanced equipment and skilled operators—it starts with meticulous planning and strategy.

Think of embarking on a road trip without a map. While you might eventually reach your destination, you’d face unnecessary detours, wasted time, and frustration. Similarly, diving into a CNC machining project without proper planning can lead to costly errors, delays, and subpar results. Proper planning is your roadmap, guiding every step from understanding project requirements to material selection, part design, and quality management.

In this blog, we’ll explore why thorough planning and strategic thinking are essential for the success of your CNC machining projects. From defining objectives to managing risks, we’ll show how to ensure your journey from concept to finished product is smooth and efficient. Let’s lay the groundwork for success by highlighting the importance of planning and strategy in CNC machining.

#1 Understanding the Project Requirements

Understanding project requirements is crucial for the success of a CNC machining project. This involves clearly defining the project scope and setting measurable, achievable goals. A well-defined scope prevents scope creep and ensures all stakeholders are aligned on deliverables, resources, and timelines.

For example, a precise scope might state, “Produce 500 aluminum brackets with a tolerance of ±0.01 mm, using 6061 aluminum alloy, by July 31, 2024, adhering to ISO 9001 standards,” whereas a vague scope like “Make some aluminum parts quickly” can lead to confusion.

Setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—is also essential. Goals should align with client or business needs, such as reducing production time or improving quality. For instance, aiming to “increase machining accuracy by 10% within six months by implementing new calibration techniques” is a clear and actionable objective. By defining the scope and setting aligned, measurable goals, you create a solid foundation for your project’s success.

#2 Material Selection

Material selection is crucial in CNC machining projects as it impacts the quality, cost, and feasibility of the final product. Common materials include metals (aluminum, steel, brass), plastics (ABS, polycarbonate, nylon), and composites (carbon fiber-reinforced polymers). Each material’s properties, such as hardness, tensile strength, and machinability, must be evaluated to ensure suitability for the project’s requirements.

Additionally, the cost and availability of materials play a significant role. Choosing cost-effective, readily available materials helps maintain the project budget and timeline. The right material choice ensures efficient machining, minimizes tool wear, and avoids delays, ultimately contributing to the project’s success.

#3 Designing for CNC Machining

Effective design is crucial for successful CNC machining projects, influencing efficiency, quality, and cost. Creating detailed CAD models using tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Fusion 360 is essential, as these models provide precise specifications that guide the machining process, reducing errors and rework.

Adhering to Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles further enhances efficiency by simplifying geometries, minimizing machining operations, and selecting easily machinable features. These design choices directly impact machining time, quality, and cost, with simplified designs reducing time and tool wear, and precise tolerances ensuring high-quality results without excessive rework.

#4 Tooling and Equipment Selection

Choosing the right tools and equipment is crucial for CNC machining projects to ensure efficiency and quality. When selecting CNC machines, factors such as capabilities (like cutting and milling), size compatibility with workpieces, and precision in achieving required tolerances must be considered. Common types include milling machines for shaping materials and turning machines for rotational operations.

Equally important is selecting the correct cutting tools, which significantly impact material removal rates, surface finishes, and dimensional accuracy. Proper tool materials, geometry, and maintenance are key to optimizing performance and extending tool life. Regular maintenance routines, including cleaning, sharpening, and timely replacement of worn tools, are essential for minimizing downtime and maintaining consistent machining quality throughout the project.

#5 Developing a Process Plan

Developing a thorough process plan is crucial for CNC machining projects to ensure efficiency and precision throughout the manufacturing process. Detailed planning clarifies the sequence of operations, tool requirements, and quality checks from initial setup to final finishing. Key steps include material preparation, CAD modeling, toolpath generation, and setup involving fixture design and tool selection.

Machining progresses through roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing stages to achieve precise dimensions and surface quality. Concurrently, establishing efficient workflows minimizes downtime and optimizes production flow, supported by realistic project schedules that account for complexities, resource availability, and deadlines. By adhering to a structured process plan and coordinated workflows, CNC machining projects can effectively meet quality standards and delivery timelines.

#6 Quality Control and Assurance

Quality control is pivotal in CNC machining to maintain precision and adhere to standards throughout production. Implementing rigorous quality control measures ensures that parts meet specifications and customer requirements, minimizing deviations and enhancing reliability. Techniques such as CNC machines and tool calibration uphold precision, while advanced metrology tools like coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) verify dimensional accuracy and surface finish.

Inspection involves dimensional checks against CAD specifications and assessments of surface texture for smoothness and functionality. Regular testing throughout production detects deviations early, facilitating adjustments to maintain consistency and high-quality standards. This comprehensive approach to quality control and assurance ensures that CNC machining projects deliver precise components that meet exacting specifications and customer satisfaction.

#7 Team Coordination and Communication

Effective team coordination and communication are essential for the success of CNC machining projects. Clear role assignment ensures accountability and efficiency by defining each team member’s responsibilities clearly, thereby minimizing overlaps and maximizing collaboration. Leadership roles, such as project managers or lead machinists, play a crucial role in coordinating tasks and resolving issues promptly to keep the project on track.

Tools like ERP systems and cloud-based collaboration platforms facilitate real-time communication and information sharing, centralizing project data and schedules for streamlined workflow. Regular team meetings with structured agendas ensure alignment on project progress, challenges, and adjustments, promoting agility and responsiveness to project needs. This systematic approach to team coordination and communication enhances productivity, minimizes errors, and contributes to the successful delivery of CNC machining projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, careful planning and strategic preparation are fundamental to the success of any CNC machining project. By defining clear project scopes, setting achievable goals, and selecting suitable materials and equipment, teams can streamline operations and minimize costly delays. Detailed CAD modeling and design for manufacturability principles ensure efficient production processes and superior product quality.

Moreover, rigorous quality control measures and effective team coordination through clear role assignments and robust communication channels are pivotal in maintaining precision and meeting project timelines. Embracing these practices not only enhances project outcomes but also fosters a collaborative environment where innovation and efficiency thrive, ultimately leading to the delivery of exceptional results that meet or exceed client expectations.

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