A clean, well-organized CNC machine shop should be able to meet general tolerances, follow GDT, and minimize part-to-part variability. If you need especially tight tolerances, talk to the shop in advance.
Does This Precision Machining Parts Shop Have A Minimum Order Quantity?
CNC machining is perfect for small batches, but some shops like to minimize setup time with standard minimum order quantities. Be sure that the minimum amounts required by the shop are financially sustainable for the needs of your business.
Does This Shop Specialize in Machining for Specific Industries or Applications?
A precision machining parts shop owner may focus on a particular niche. A shop that knows your industry will likely deliver the best results because they’ll understand the expectations that aren’t spelled out in print. Additionally, request industry-specific certifications, such as ITAR and AS9100 machine shop qualifications.
Fair Haven Machine commonly creates parts for not only aerospace and government purposes but energy, commercial appliances, maritime applications, and beyond.
Does This Shop Have the Appropriate Certifications and Special Certifications I need?
If your project requires special certifications to ensure certain standards are met, ask for proof of up-to-date certification from the shop.
Fair Haven Machine is an ITAR registered, AS9100 CNC machine shop.
What Inspection Resources and Services Does This Precision Machine Shop Have?
Some shops use a granite table and a height gauge, while others have a high-end CMM in a temperature-controlled room. Think about what needs checking on your parts, and whether you need an inspection report or even NIST traceability before spending on extra services.
While all machine shops have the ability to cut metal, you should aim to work with a shop that understands your industry, requirements, and expectations. Rather than picking a shoHow to Find the Best Precision Machine Shop for Your Project in West Haven, Vermont
Each CNC machine shop has its own specialties and preferred ways of working. To ensure you get what you expect, give some due diligence when looking for the precision machining parts shop for your project. The best way of finding what you need is by knowing exactly what you expect from a shop: is the physical proximity of the shop a priority for you? Does this shop have experience using the materials you’re planning to work with? Are there adequate inspection resources and procedures in place?
For those considering precision machining, we’ve assembled a list of questions to help with your quest for top-notch machining services.
What Precision Machining Parts Shops Are Closest To Me?
Longer distances can mean slower delivery. If you’re expecting a quick turnaround, look for a machine shop that’s close to you. For rush jobs, they may be able to bring it to you when finished, or you may have the option to pick it up. Be sure to ask about delivery times and expectations if you may need them in the future – it’s always a good sign when a shop is eager to advertise their on-time shipping.
Can This Machine Shop Handle My Drawings?
There are simply too many CAD products for a CNC machine shop to know and utilize them all. Be sure to tell a prospective shop what you use and have them confirm they’ll be able to handle your drawings.
What CNC Machining Capabilities Does This Shop Have?
There’s no real definition of a “precision” machine shop – any shop claiming CNC capabilities should always be operating with absolute precision! It’s always best to ask about a shop’s machining capabilities. CNC equipment provides accuracy and repeatability, but it’s important to ask if they turn, mill, grind, and cut, not to mention the machines they do it on. Newer equipment will probably be more accurate, although some of the older cast iron base machines are hard to beat. Additionally, asking why a shop chooses to use the machines they do will give valuable insight to their processes and priorities.
Fair Haven Machine uses several vertical machining centers to complete aerospace and government contract jobs where precision is paramount.
Has This Precision Machine Shop Worked With My Materials Before?
If you’re using stainless, brass, magnesium, or more exotic materials such as Inconel or titanium, ask what experience the shop has. There are some tricks to machining and finishing these materials with accuracy; the same applies to welding them.
Fair Haven Machine commonly works with Inconel, titanium, and stainless steel.
Can This Machine Shop Provide the Precision I Need?
Don’t shop simply based on price or convenience, it is important to ask the questions that will result in the best possible product. Fair Haven Machine encourages you to explore our website and contact us to find out if we’re the best shop to meet your needs.
Contact Fair Haven Machine today to discuss any questions you have about your project!