Getting machined parts manufactured can be very expensive if you’re inexperienced and don’t know what to look for in a manufacturer. Often it’s necessary to pay a little extra for an excellent, efficient and reliable job.
But there are also a few ways that you can reduce the overall cost. By being a little savvy and asking yourself these questions before you send your part off for manufacturing, you could be saving a significant amount.
Are your drawings foolproof?
First thing’s first, go over your drawings multiple times. Get them checked by an engineer and ensure that every detail is correct. Every line needs to be dark and bold so that it doesn’t get lost when multiple copies are made. Never use light colours that are difficult to make out, such as yellow or light grey. Label everything clearly and triple check that all your calculations are correct, especially across multiple diagrams.
This all sounds like basic stuff, but you’d be surprised how often a design comes through, and production begins, only to be halted because there was a tiny mistake in the drawing. It can end up costing you thousands of dollars. This is where it pays to employ a qualified engineer to manufacture your machined parts for you! They can go over your drawings, adjust them accordingly and ensure that they are 100% solid before undergoing the manufacturing process.
Do you need to use a specific material?
Do you need to use alloy steel if your machined part doesn’t require direct-hardening? Can you get away with using a more affordable, generic steel? Is it essential that you use Delrin plastic or will PVC suffice? Make sure you know what your options are going in. Consulting with an engineer is essential; they’ll give you options and advice based on your budget and design. Choosing an honest and reliable engineer to manufacture your product is crucial as you don’t want to be swindled into paying for a material that you don’t necessarily require for your part to function accordingly. Make sure you do your research and only employ a trusted professional to make your machined parts and give you honest and educated advice!
Is the right machine being used for your job?
When it comes to using CNC machining to manufacture your machined parts, you have quite a few options. There are CNC lathes, milling machines, routers, laser cutters and plasma cutters, to name a few. Discuss with your engineer which one will provide the most precise and speediest job. To view some of the benefits of using CNC machining over manual machining, see here.
Can you eliminate text?
Your part design may include text engraved on the final product. But this can be very costly, especially if your machined part is manufactured with an expensive material. It’s best to try and avoid text if possible to save money. If you need to have text engraved, go for raised text as it tends to be much cheaper than recessed text.
Are you quick to reply?
This question is extremely underrated! Good communication is key when dealing with your engineer during the design and creation stages of your machined part or parts. You’d be surprised at how much quicker the process can be if you make a habit of replying to emails and phone calls within the same day. This, in turn, will save you hard money, and also time (which we all know IS money!). Likewise, ensuring that you’re hiring engineers with notoriously reliable services, who work efficiently and respond promptly to queries, will expedite the creation of your machined part or parts.
Are you looking for a team of experienced and reliable engineers to design and manufacture your machined part or parts? Contact Prime Engineering today!
