Top Materials Used By Machine Shops During Metal Fabrication

by admin | Jun 8, 2021 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining, Metal Fabrication

Every time you do any routine task like driving or using electronic or medical appliances you are looking at the prime example of metal fabrication services.

The metal fabrication market is necessary for plenty of industries such as Aerospace, Construction, Energy, Mining, Ship Building and more. These industries require machining parts of various shapes and sizes that are possible via using certain materials.

On this page

Qualities to look for in fabrication materials
Common materials that are used in metal fabrication
How to choose the right fabrication company?
Why choose MDA for metal fabrication?

Qualities to look for in fabrication materials

Metal fabrication means making the product from scratch using raw materials. The material can depend on the type of product you require. Machine shop experts can fabricate multiple parts from different materials.

Here are some qualities to check before metal fabrication materials:

The material for metal fabrication needs to be durable.
The material needs to be cost-effective.
The finish of the product you can achieve.
The material should suit loose or tight tolerances.

A material can have an impact on the finished product. Choosing the right material takes research and knowing the right material is the first and foremost step. As it’s impossible to recommend any type of fabrication material. This article will explain the most common materials that are necessary for metal fabrication.

Common materials that are used in metal fabrication

Steel

Steel is the most widely used material used for metal fabrication. It’s known for its polished steel alloy silver mirror coating that is helpful during the manufacturing of machined parts.

The chromium present in steel helps the metal to have an amazing resistance against corrosion. The strength factor presented by steel makes it an ideal choice for surgical instruments. Steel is common for machine shops because it’s easier to work with.

Steel can bend easily, making it easier for welding and manufacturing CNC machined parts. There are various versatile options present in the steel. One of them is carbon steel, which has a high carbon content with a lower melting point. It helps to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions making it ideal for CNC steel machining.

Industrial uses of steel

The industrial applications of steel as a material used in metal fabrication are as follows:

Buildings and infrastructure
Mechanical equipment
Automotive
Domestic applications
Electrical equipment

Pros of steel material for metal fabrication

Durability & quality
Design flexibility
Cost efficiency
Recyclability

Aluminum

Aluminum is mostly used for metal fabrication because it’s lightweight, which is necessary for industries that need lightweight machined parts. The aluminum parts are in demand in machine shops as they can be machined in a shorter time.

Aluminum, often used for various applications ranging from window frames to aircraft wing components, showcases the material’s versatility. CNC aluminum machining plays a crucial role in shaping this adaptable material for specific needs. It works well for workplace structures and is a popular alternative to steel. It’s rust-free and has strong thermal and electrical conductive properties. Finally, aluminum is a durable, lightweight, and versatile material with thermal properties.

Industrial uses of aluminum

The industrial applications of aluminum as a material used in metal fabrication as follows:

Consumer electronics
Power lines
Household and industrial appliances
Aircraft components
Window frames

Pros of aluminum material for metal fabrication

Lightweight
Corrosion resistance
Non-magnetic
Thermal efficiency

| Also Read: All About The Metal Machining & Its Benefits

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is the most common material used by metal shops and is the most common in the industry. It is the most versatile material, with applications ranging from construction to machinery.

This material is popular among fabricators because it is simple to work with and can be finished in a variety of ways. Carbon steel presents strength and works in harsh environments making it ideal for metal machining services. This steel has a lower melting point due to the higher carbon content. It’s also more resistant to bending and more malleable.

Industrial uses of carbon steel

The industrial applications of carbon steel as a material used in metal fabrication as follows:

Oil industry
Gas industry
Petrochemical sector

Pros of carbon steel material for metal fabrication

Efficiently Malleable
Lightweight
Easier to fabricate
Cost-effective

Copper

Copper is a common material in metal fabrication for applications that require a high level of conductivity. The material is corrosion resistant therefore being used in building components in the construction industry. Copper responds well to bending and can produce lovely results. Heating and cooling systems, transformers, switches, and telecommunications systems all use copper wiring because of the amazing conductivity offered by copper. Additionally, CNC copper machining enhances the precision and customization of copper components in various applications.

Industrial uses of copper

Electrical industry
Construction industry
Transport industry
Medical sector

Pros of copper material for metal fabrication

High electrical conductivity
Antibacterial properties making it ideal for fabrication
Ductile, soft, and malleable
Resistance to corrosion

How to choose the right metal fabrication company?

Choosing the right fabrication company increases the probability of getting quality materials. Without the proper guidance of the fabrication company, you face design and quality issues. You should hire a machine metal shop that possesses the following qualifications:

A team of engineers with years of experience who are eager to work with you and answer your questions.
Materials of the highest quality are available.
The company must offer prototypes, fabrication systems, and CNC machining.
An understanding of lean manufacturing practices and a focus on low-cost fabrication solutions.
A broad range of fabrication projects.
Assembly, short-run manufacturing, and shipping are all available services.
Customized solutions tailored to your specific product and objectives.

A full-service product fabrication company will assist you at every stage of the process by providing you with a comprehensive set of tools, and quality materials.

Why choose MDA for metal fabrication?

MDA uses the highest quality materials for the metal fabrication process. We help our clients to make the right decision by selecting the best materials for their industry. We are here to bring your designs to life.

Our metal shop support the clients from the design process to finishing and assembly. Here are some reasons to choose us:

Expert metal fabrication services
Fully equipped machine shop
Quality work
Satisfied customers

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

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

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 admin | Apr 8, 2020 | CNC Machine Shop

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 Norm Grimberg | Apr 6, 2020 | CNC Machine Shop, CNC Machining

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.

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.

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

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!

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

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!!!

Top Materials Used By Machine Shops During Metal Fabrication

Qualities to look for in fabrication materials