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Tips For Machining Precision Parts

Machining precision parts has two perspectives. Creating the customer’s idea and vision to a high-quality machined part requires attention and cooperation between the manufacturer and customer. There is the technological side of it where CNC machining companies have the experience and knowledge to fulfill the demands of the proposed project. Customers have the obligation to communicate how the component will be used and what material is needed for it to function properly. The following tips will give you both the manufacturers and customers perspective for manufacturing precision parts:

Manufacturer’s Perspective:

  • Design for Manufacturability (DFM): Collaborate with the client to ensure the design optimizes machinability. This includes considering factors like wall thickness, material selection for tight tolerances, and minimizing complex geometries.
  • Equipment Selection: Well-maintained CNC machines with the capabilities to handle the project’s complexity and material. Regularly calibrate and perform preventative maintenance to ensure consistent accuracy.
  • Skilled Machinists: Experienced machinists can make a world of difference in CNC manufacturing. Companies invest in training and hire individuals who understand precision machining principles.
  • Tooling Selection: Choose the right cutting tools for the specific material and desired finish. Sharp and appropriate tools minimize tool deflection and ensure dimensional accuracy. Optimizing cutting speeds and feeds gives balance to these parameters minimizing stress on the part and tool, reducing deformation and improving precision.
  • Quality and Process Control: Implementing quality control procedures throughout the manufacturing process. Some machine shops adhere to ISO 9001-2015 to strengthen their quality system. This includes regular inspections with high-precision measuring tools and adherence to documented procedures.
  • Fixturing: Utilize well-designed and secure fixturing to hold the workpiece during machining. Proper fixturing minimizes vibration and part movement, leading to better dimensional control.

Customer’s Perspective:

  • Clear Communication: Provide the manufacturer with CAD data and detailed drawings and specifications that clearly define tolerances, surface finishes, and material properties.
  • Tolerance Selection: Consider the required tolerances for each dimension. Tighter tolerances often increase machining time and cost. Customers should seek the best option to provide the best cost and throughput.
  • Material Selection: Choose a material that offers the necessary strength, machinability, and dimensional stability for the application. Discuss material options with the manufacturer for recommendations based on their expertise. Some materials may be rare or have extreme lead times. Customers can save time and added cost by supplying the material if available.
  • Surface Finish Requirements: Post process finishing is needed for many precision parts. Specify the desired surface finish (roughness) for each machined surface. Rougher finishes are generally achieved faster and at a lower cost, while smoother finishes may require additional processes.
  • Realistic Expectations: Understand that achieving extremely tight tolerances might require specialized techniques or advanced machinery, impacting project timelines and costs.
  • Open Communication: Maintain open communication with the manufacturer throughout the process. Discuss any concerns or questions you might have and work collaboratively to achieve the desired outcome.

 Successful precision machining relies on a strong partnership and a shared commitment to quality by the manufacturer and customer. The recurring factor that comes around is communication. Communication from the CNC machine shop on available materials and the tolerances that can be held to the customer’s request for changes in the design and post finishing requirements. These need to be part of the ongoing communication between the two parties to eventually end with a high-quality machined part and a satisfied customer.

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