When machining small parts, precision matters more than ever. Every aspect of each angle, groove and threading can determine the difference between a successful product and an expensive mistake.
This is where a precision machining partner can add immense value to your business and its operations.
Precision machining of small parts involves creating parts with tight tolerances and smooth surfaces. The goal is to produce parts that meet specifications and function as intended. This can be a challenge, as even minute variations can cause problems. To successfully create parts that satisfy narrow tolerances, a team with the right experience and equipment is necessary.
When precision machining, manufacturers take into account the material properties, the type of machine being used, and the desired outcome. They then create a detailed plan that outlines each step of the manufacturing process. This plan ensures that every part is made to the same rigorous standards.
Oftentimes, a CNC Swiss machine proves the most effective solution for producing these small parts at high volume without losing precision. The ability to swiftly and accurately create prototypes also allows for more testing and refinement before mass production begins.
In this post, we are going to highlight some of the most notable impacts that the level of precision has on the final properties of the finished part. First, we are going to begin with one of the most significant: reducing room for error.
Precision Reduces Room for Error
The close tolerances in small, precision-machined parts leave less room for error. If a part is even slightly out of tolerance, it can cause problems when integrating it into the whole of the finished product.
Among the many challenges that product defects can cause, two of the most notable are incomplete fits and friction with other components. A part that does not fit seamlessly with the other components around it can become dislodged or interrupt the intended function of the product you are manufacturing. It can also result in friction which can slow performance or potentially compromise the structural integrity of the design.
When producing components at high volumes, an out-of-tolerance part can result in a costly error for your business and delay production and/or assembly processes. Instead, by working with a trusted machining partner, you can significantly reduce the risk of error while entrusting them to produce your parts for you while prioritizing attention to detail to faithfully meet your design.
Suited for the Most Rigorous Applications
Another reason why precision matters is that small parts are often used in sensitive applications where a slight error or deviation can create larger and more serious consequences. For example, medical implants or aerospace components must meet very tight tolerances in order to function properly. Any mishap with a part, no matter the size, could have literal life-or-death consequences in certain scenarios.
Other applications like construction or military technology are subjected to frequent physical wear and tear. Precision allows for parts to fasten together with greater security, reducing the likelihood of them coming loose or falling off of your product entirely during points of high stress.
Reduce the Number of Defective Parts
When manufacturing any item in large quantities, there is an implied risk of defective products. In the context of machining small parts, their narrow margin for error can render even the slightest variation unusable and result in sunk costs for your business.
By partnering with a precision machining provider, manufacturers can produce parts that are much more likely to meet the standards outlined in their design specifications and significantly reduce the risk of defection.
In addition, precision machining can help to reduce variation from one part to the next. This enables your quality control team to identify and more easily identify and correct problems during the manufacturing process.
Precision Comes from the Right Equipment and Expertise
Lastly, manufacturing parts with high levels of precision requires advanced knowledge of machining as well as specialized equipment and skills. Not all machine shops will possess these capabilities. This can create challenges for manufacturers seeking a machining partner that can assist them with highly specific, nonstandard, or complex parts.
At Advance CNC, we provide a complete range of precision engineering services based completely in our two Ohio facilities. From prototyping to high-volume production, our team of expert machinists can partner with your team to ensure that you maintain a steady supply of the parts that you need for your products while maintaining a high level of precision that meets your standards.
If you are ready to enhance your parts’ performance scalably, contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in your production needs.
