Not using custom machining means you are intentionally lagging behind your competitors. The global machining market includes more than 30% of conventional and 70% of custom machining. Where you cannot source the parts directly from the suppliers, you ask manufacturers to use custom machining and create them. Most manufacturers use CNC (computer numerical control) machines that perform various functions. From cutting to drilling and fabrication, a CNC machine can work on complex designs and produce parts.
Whether you need a small batch or large-scale production, CNC machining is ideal for creating parts to keep the machinery running, whether a new version of an old part. Reliable custom machining providers offer rapid part production, getting your components done without waiting longer. But what is custom machining, and why do we need it? Let’s uncover some amazing facts and benefits of custom machining.
What is Custom Machining?
In simple words, custom machining is actually CNC machining, entailing its different types, from CNC milling to drilling and EDM, etc. So, the main purpose of custom machining is the production of unique parts that one can’t find anywhere. For example, a company is creating a machine that needs new, unique parts. Now, they will get custom machining services for the new part design and convert it into reality.
So, custom machining is for hard-to-find parts or totally new concepts. This manufacturing method customizes products according to requirements, from simple components such as gears or nuts to larger parts such as shafts. Moreover, they also add extra features such as premium finish, sturdiness, and others to meet clients’ requirements.
Custom machining usually includes producing parts with different properties in many other scenarios. These parts are essential for completing a special product. Whether metal machining or plastic machining, custom machining can create on-demand parts.
How Custom Machining Works?
The custom machining process includes different steps to create parts. The part design might take less time and effort if it is simple. Manufacturers can easily make that part with the manual lathe or mill. However, people usually opt for custom machining because they need parts with complex geometries. Therefore, complex feature parts, need advanced machines with multi axis. The process includes the following steps:
Part Designing
Before the start of the machining process, the engineers use CAD software to create a 2D or 3D model of the part. CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design, which helps the engineers create a model of the part, which they then use to program the machines accordingly.
Loading of CAD Model
The engineers convert the CAD model of the part (2D or 3D) into computer-understandable language. The computer program includes instructions for the tool movements, paths, design control, and other machine controls. They install the code on the CNC machine to follow them and create the part.
Processing
After loading the code, the manufacturer installs the program into the machine. He then sets up the machine and checks that all the tools are working properly. They might also do a test run before manufacturing the original part.
Feedback
Manufacturers might do the dry run after testing the program and ensuring it works without glitches or issues. The dry run entails the workpiece featuring testing material and the tools moving to perform cutting and drilling.
Final Product
After the program works well and there are no flaws in the process flow, the manufacturers will then proceed to the main product. They will use the main material as per the client’s requirements and produce a high-quality product.
Why Do You Need Custom Machining?
Custom machining is perfect for creating custom parts according to your requirements and project details. The major reason someone may need custom machining is the unavailability of a particular part or the production of a new part. Moreover, another reason is that the part is too unique with a complex design. Here are some other reasons why you need custom machining:
Production of Discontinued Parts
With the help of CNC custom machining, you can create the parts no longer available in the marks. For example, a factory uses a machine, let’s take a mill, that has been working fine for decades. However, for some reason, one part needs replacement to keep running, but they can’t find it in the market anymore. So, the last option you can select is sending the part to professionals like Premium Parts and asking them to recreate the part again.
Precision Manufacturing
Another reason industries seek custom manufacturing is accurate outcomes. CNC machines can work on different materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. Moreover, they can offer different operations, such as supporting multi-axis to craft complex designs. Subsequently, they can perform other actions like milling, slitting, cutting, and boring. Because of these specs, the manufacturers can create high-end parts.
New Inventions
Some industries might need to create new parts to introduce a new product to the market. So, they present the idea, and custom machining makes the drawings according to it. After creating the CAD models and getting their approval, the manufacturers then turn them into functional parts. In short, if you introduce a new product to the market, a custom manufacturing service provider can turn your concept into reality.
Emergency Parts
Emergencies don’t come knocking, so they can affect your whole business. At that time, a custom machining provider can help you create the parts quickly and precisely. Whether your one special part is short and you need it urgently or are missing a specific component, they can help you with any part.
Affordability
Custom machining turns your concept into reality by providing different parts. Whether you need those parts in small amounts or bulk, the manufacturers can offer them. Besides, large-scale production always comes with affordability and special discounts. Moreover, these services are best for creating new products.
Advantages of Custom Manufacturing Services
Custom machining offers several benefits, from reducing costs to offering high-end products. Here are some other major advantages you can grab:
- You can create any custom parts, whether new or discontinued, with the help of custom manufacturing service providers.
- No matter if you want small or larger production batches, you can get them according to your requirements.
- Custom CNC machining offers high-quality products, whether simple or complex geometries.
- All products are of high-end finishes according to the customers’ request.
Types of Custom Machining Services
Custom machining services can include many forms, from manual lathes to multi-axis machining. Different service providers come with other machinery and customization options. Besides, the choice of a particular type depends upon the material type, geometry of the product, and size. Some parts may need different cutting tools, while others require different components. Let’s explore the types of custom machining:
CNC Turning
With CNC turning, we can create cylindrical parts such as shafts. The material spins around its axis while the cutting tool performs actions to and from to make the part. The cutting tool moves perpendicularly at different angles to perform the cutting. We can also use lathes for drilling, reaming, and other operations. The cutting tools remove the material and cut it into the required shape.
CNC Milling
Milling includes a rotating spindle with an attached cutting tool. The spindle moves the cutting tool over the surface of the material. The operator places the material over the table, and the machine moves over it to cut and create the required design. CNC milling can perform different actions in one setup and may switch different tools without operator interference. It allows the manufacturing of complex part geometries with a tolerance accuracy of +/-0.01mm.
Electric Discharge Machining (EDM)
EDM uses an electric discharge to remove unnecessary material by burning it through it. In this process, the operators dip the workpiece into a dielectric fluid. The machine moves inside the liquid over the material according to programming instructions. It then produces spars to cut the material into different shapes. This method is best for creating intricate features, including diameter holes.
CNC Laser Cutting Machine
As the name suggests, the CNC laser machine uses laser beams to cut through the material and create the design. The heat of the laser beam penetrates into the material and cuts through it. However, for that, it needs a high-power setting. It can do minor design changes at a low power setting. Nonetheless, this procedure includes optics or assist gas to control the laser beam’s movements.
CNC Drilling
CNC drilling involves creating holes in materials. Multi-point drill bits can be used to develop perpendicular and angular holes. The drill bits are attached to a spindle that rotates and exerts force on them. The drill bits can be different shapes and sizes to create various holes. Reaming and countersinking also fall under the category of CNC drilling.
Custom Machining Vs. Alternatives
Although custom machining is a major manufacturing technique, there are other alternatives in some scenarios. For example, a client needs 400 plastic parts through injection molding. However, the cost is too high, and he can’t afford it. The client can seek CNC machining services for small-batch production in that case. CNC machining can easily make smaller units without incorporating expensive tools and procedures.
However, that’s not the only reason custom machining is sought after as an alternative. Sometimes, the turnaround time also makes a difference. For example, if a company needs small-scale production, CNC is the fastest method, unlike other methods, including 3D printing and molding. Moreover, the materials and required quality of the products can also make people choose CNC machining over other available methods.
Choose Premium Parts for Your Manufacturing Needs
Premium Parts is the leading provider of custom CNC machining and has years of expertise. With the professional team, we have a huge portfolio of different client projects. Thus, if you are also looking for CNC machining services, Premium Part is your destination. We have the latest machinery with high tolerances and precision. Besides, they can work on different axes. So, we will create it for you no matter what design you want. Contact us now to get a quote and start your project of any size immediately.
FAQs
What type of additional services can I get from a CNC machining provider?
You can also take other services in addition to the standard manufacturing services. One notable service is the assembly of different parts. Assembly is not easy when it comes to complex products. Moreover, you can also get finishing and coating services to enhance the aesthetics of products.
Why do you need custom machining?
From plastics to metal machining, custom machining can turn any vision into reality. So, you need it to create high-quality parts with precision. Moreover, it has quick turnarounds and high productivity. Subsequently, the parts are affordable and provide the best return on investment.
When clients hire a custom machining company?
If clients have to create new parts with specific requirements, seeking custom machining services is the best choice. This technique is best for recreating or fabricating discontinued parts. Additionally, not every machining process can handle complex shapes and touch metals; custom machining can turn any design inspiration into functional parts.
Conclusion
Custom machining is the best solution for companies needing high-quality parts. Custom manufacturing services offer several benefits, from creating discontinued parts to complex designs. Besides, they produce products with various applications in aerospace, automobiles, medical, energy, and many other industries. At Premium Parts, we aim to offer high-quality parts that meet the client’s requirements. Whether you need small or large-scale production, we have the expert workforce and advanced machinery. So, contact us and get a quote!
