CNC Service Companies

Available in machinist shops and mass production facilities, CNC machining is employed by a broad range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, and military. Common services include drilling, grinding, milling, and cutting as well as broaching, etching, laser machining, and electro discharge machining or EDM. Although the accuracy of these computerized machines results in final products that rarely require additional finishing, optional secondary operations, such as polishing, painting, anodizing, heat treating, and lapping, are often made available.

Computer numerically-controlled services inherently begin with the use of software to develop the schematics and measurements of the part to be machined. Often in-house capabilities, such as computer assisted design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM), as well as programs, such as photo imaging, allow service providers to work with clients in the development of an application-specific design. CNC software then converts these designs into code that will direct the equipment. The code, a specific computer language, instructs the positioning, movements, pressure, depth, and all other movements of the automated machine in a series of commands performed in a sequential order. One or more machines operate under the supervision of machinists to produce the precision part. Prototype machining is a common service provided prior to full line production. This gives the client a working model or mock up of the part in order to prove feasibility and, if needed, improve upon the original design. CNC machinists are highly skilled workers who offer expert perspective on the efficiency of product design.

As services vary greatly among shops, it is important to consider the capabilities of a specific manufacturer as they apply to the intended application. Further considerations include dimensional capacities, often provided in a range, as well as material capabilities such as wood, metal, glass, ceramic, and plastic.

Many, though not all, CNC service providers are certified through the National Institute of Metalworking Skills, ensuring a secure knowledge of machines and processes. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) also carefully regulates CNC machining, which must follow four main specifications. Service providers should comply with ISO 9001:2000, ISO 13485:2003, ISO 14001, and ISO/TS 16848:2002, which relate to and define industry specific quality standards.