Put simply, custom machining is the act of using CNC machining to create parts that don’t exist elsewhere. This might be because you’re creating a unique production item that’s unavailable from a supplier. Most of the time, custom machining is sought out in applications where tight tolerances and unique geometry are crucial for the integrity of the product. It’s also commonly used to make pieces, parts, or large components that encompass several features. If you’re wondering whether custom machining is right for you, this blog will help you make an informed decision for your business. Let’s dive in.

How Does Custom Machining Work?

Custom machining starts with a detailed design phase. Your engineering and design team will create a blueprint or CAD model of the part. This will outline the exact dimensions, shapes, tolerances, and materials needed. From there, you’ll enter the prototyping phase, where the product will be tested for efficacy. Within this phase, engineers and designers will work together to determine if the product is suitable for its intended purpose before moving on to mass production.

Once the piece is approved, full-scale production can begin. The CNC machine will be prepared for its operation. It will then follow the programmed instructions to perform various operations such as cutting, drilling, milling, or turning.

When the process has finished, the parts will enter a quality control process. Each finished part will be inspected for tolerances and quality before being shipped to the final destination.

Advantages of Custom Machining

Unique Parts

As mentioned above, the biggest advantage of custom machining is the ability to get parts that are tailored to specific requirements. Unique parts can improve performance, enhance compatibility with existing systems, and meet niche market demands. A custom solution may even lead to innovative designs, which could give your company a competitive edge in your field.

Precision and Quality

Most parts must be precise, especially if you’re in heavily regulated industries like automotive and aerospace. Custom machining can get you tight tolerances that ensure the efficacy of your product and the safety of the end consumer. In fact, we can create parts with tolerances down to 0.003-0.005 inches. This high precision reduces the likelihood of errors, leading to better fitting and functioning components.

Additionally, when you choose a custom option, you’ll likely get better quality. You’re able to choose superior materials and advanced manufacturing techniques, which results in durable and long-lasting products.

Talk to KAL Manufacturing for Your Machining Needs

If you’re looking for quality custom machining services, turn to the KAL Manufacturing team. Since 1943, we’ve been dedicated to crafting high-quality custom-machined parts. We have a variety of extensive capabilities, such as CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, electro-mechanical assembly, and prototyping. We have experience helping OEMs and Fortune 500 companies create custom-machined parts that exceed expectations, and we’re ready to help you with your next project.

Our shop has advanced machinery that can achieve tolerances down to 0.003-0.005 inches. We’re equipped with 20,000 RPM dual pallet, high-speed machining centers with fourth-axis capabilities and vertical machining centers. Additionally, we have a complete line of tool room support equipment. This extensive machinery allows us to build tooling in-house and take on projects of all volumes and material types. Whether your part must be made of aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or plastic, we can help.

Let’s Get Started

Want to learn more about what we can do for you? Contact our expert team today to get started.