Questions to Ask Before Investing in a CNC Machining Company

Jun 23

The CNC machine or computer numerical controlled machine is a tool used to design and manufacture metal and plastic products. It is an essential function in many industries. If you plan to invest in a CNC company soon, you need to ask the following questions first.

1: What Service Does Your Business Need?

You have to make sure the company can deliver what you need. A CNC machine can give you the following functions:

Milling: Creating complex parts by carving the excess materials away
Turning: Creating the cylindrical parts.
Grinding: Removing materials and making coarse surfaces smoother
Plating: Coating something to give it corrosion and wear resistance, a better appearance, and lubricity
Prototyping: Bring a 3D design to life through computer-controlled cutting and milling
Surface finishing: Removing aesthetic flaws, improving final appearance, and providing strength and resistance

Not all companies with a CNC machine provide all these services, so it is best to identify what you need before settling with a service provider.

2: What Technology Is the Company Using?

Apart from the services they offer, it is also essential to know what kind of machine they are using and how old it is. Knowing this information can help you assess the limitations and capabilities of the company. While there is nothing wrong with a still-functioning machine from years back, old machines cannot deliver the advanced functionalities of recent machines.

3: How Much Is Your Budget?

Another crucial piece of information to ask yourself is how much you are willing to spend on this investment. By setting a budget, you can also limit your options or adjust accordingly. For example, hiring a vertical machining center is more affordable than hiring a horizontal machining center. If you can find a service provider that is more cost-effective and delivers what you need according to your budget, then better for you.

4: How Well Do They Address Customer Concerns?

Never leave out customer support as a critical factor in a service provider. If you have urgent and important concerns, someone from the company should assist you appropriately. Remember that no matter how high-tech a CNC machine is, it could still fail to bring out the output. After all, machines are only as good as the people who operate them.

5: Do They Have Portfolio You Can Check?

Lastly, make sure that they can provide you with proof of their work. A collection of their past works also proves they can deliver exactly what you need. Such samples would be an excellent basis for deciding whether to push through with them or not. Seeing what they can do can also give you confidence about their company.

Conclusion

Partnering with a CNC machining company requires a considerable investment. If you want to ensure that the relationship is worthwhile, but take these five important factors into consideration first. By answering these questions, you would know what kind of company to look for and if you are making the right decision based on your needs.

If you are looking for fabrication services, Rost Machining & Fabrication is a company from Santa Clara, CA that you should try. Machining, fabricating, and finishing services—we can do all that for you. Contact us at (408) 780-9640 to learn how we can help you.