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FAQ

What are your standard machining tolerances?

We ensure quality through a comprehensive quality assurance system:

  • First Article Inspection (FAI): Before mass production, a full-dimensional inspection of the first article is conducted.

  • In-Process Inspection: Random checks are performed during the production process.

  • Final Inspection: Before shipment, critical dimensions are finally inspected using high-precision measuring equipment such as calipers, micrometers, and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM).

  • Reports Available: We can provide inspection reports upon request.


What are your standard machining tolerances?


  • Our standard tolerance is ±0.01 mm, which meets the requirements of most applications.

  • For features requiring higher precision, we can achieve ±0.005 mm or even tighter tolerances. Please note that tighter tolerances will increase machining costs and time.


What is the general production lead time?

The lead time depends on the complexity of the part and the order quantity.

  • Simple Prototypes: Usually take 3-5 working days.

  • Complex Parts or Small Batches: May take 1-2 weeks.
    We will provide an accurate production lead time before you place your order. If you have urgent needs, we offer expedited services, please contact us.


How is the cost of CNC machining calculated?

Quotations are usually calculated based on a combination of the following factors:

  • Material Cost: The price and quantity of raw materials used.

  • Machining Time: The running time of the CNC machine, which is one of the main costs. Complex geometries and tight tolerances will increase the time.

  • Process Complexity: Whether 4-axis/5-axis machining, post-processing, etc., are required.

  • Surface Treatment: The type of surface treatment selected.

  • Order Quantity: The cost per unit for a single prototype is relatively high, but the unit cost will decrease significantly for mass production.


What are the common surface treatment options?


Surface treatment can enhance the appearance, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance of parts.

• Anodizing (for Aluminum): Offers a variety of colors and enhances surface hardness and corrosion resistance.

• Sandblasting: Creates a uniform matte surface that is aesthetically pleasing and can improve paint adhesion.

• Electroplating: Such as nickel plating and chrome plating, providing high gloss and excellent corrosion resistance.

• Electroless Nickel Plating: Provides a uniform coating that completely covers even complex shapes.

• Passivation (mainly for Stainless Steel): Improves corrosion resistance.


What CNC machining materials do you usually provide?

We offer a wide range of metals and engineering plastics, including but not limited to:

  • Metals: Aluminum Alloys (6061, 7075), Steel (Mild Steel, 4140, Stainless Steel 304/316), Brass, Titanium Alloys (TC4/GR5), etc.

  • Engineering Plastics: ABS, PC (Polycarbonate), POM (Acetal), Nylon, PEEK, etc.
    If you have special material requirements, please feel free to contact us.


What documents do I need to provide to obtain a quotation and proceed with production?

We recommend that you provide both of the following file types:

• 3D Model File: This is the most important file, containing the geometry of the part. Recommended formats: STEP (.step/.stp) or IGES (.igs), as these are universal formats.

• 2D Engineering Drawing: Used to clearly specify manufacturing requirements such as critical dimensions, tolerances, surface roughness, thread specifications, and inspection datums. Recommended formats: PDF or DWG.


What are the most important design guidelines when designing CNC machined parts?


Following Design for Manufacturability (DFM) guidelines is crucial as it saves costs and avoids production issues:

• Internal Corners (Concave Corners): Fillets must be used because cutting tools are cylindrical. A radius slightly larger than the tool radius is recommended.

• Cavity Depth: It is not advisable to exceed 4 times the cavity diameter; excessive depth can cause tool vibration, tool breakage, and reduced precision.

• Thin Walls: Avoid designing overly thin wall thicknesses to prevent deformation during machining. Generally, it is recommended that the wall thickness of metal parts be no less than 1.5mm, and that of plastic parts no less than 2mm.

• Threads: Try to use standard thread sizes and depths. Sufficient unthreaded depth should be left at the bottom of blind hole threads.

• Text and Logos: It is recommended to use raised rather than recessed text, as machining recessed text is more costly.


What are the differences between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis CNC machining?

These are two mainstream manufacturing technologies, and the choice depends on your requirements:

• CNC Machining (Subtractive Manufacturing): Removes material from a solid block using cutting tools. It uses materials like metal and plastic, offering high strength, high precision, and excellent surface quality. It is ideal for manufacturing high-load functional parts, molds, and small to medium batch production.

• 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): Builds parts by depositing material layer by layer. It is cost-effective for complex geometries, rapid prototyping, and single-piece production, but part strength and precision are generally not as good as CNC.

Simple Selection Guide: Need high strength, high precision, and high-quality metal parts → Choose CNC. Need to quickly verify designs, create complex internal structures, or produce single-piece prototypes → Consider 3D Printing.


What are the differences between CNC machining and 3D printing? How should I choose between them?

These are two mainstream manufacturing technologies, and the choice depends on your requirements:

• CNC Machining (Subtractive Manufacturing): Removes material from a solid block using cutting tools. It uses materials like metal and plastic, offering high strength, high precision, and excellent surface quality. It is ideal for manufacturing high-load functional parts, molds, and small to medium batch production.

• 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): Builds parts by depositing material layer by layer. It is cost-effective for complex geometries, rapid prototyping, and single-piece production, but part strength and precision are generally not as good as CNC.

Simple Selection Guide: Need high strength, high precision, and high-quality metal parts → Choose CNC. Need to quickly verify designs, create complex internal structures, or produce single-piece prototypes → Consider 3D Printing.