Machining is a process that is not well known by the general public. It requires precision, expertise and a very specific methodology, because the parts it produces must be perfect.
When machining a part, there are several important steps to follow. This methodology optimizes production, ensures that the parts are machined correctly and reduces the number of errors. The method is used by many industrial machining companies.
Our machining company presents the main steps of the machining process in this article.
1. Approve the technical drawings
The first stage of the machining process involves analyzing and approving plans for the part. Parts are usually designed using technical drawings before they are machined.
All parties involved must approve the part before it can be made. The manufacturer and customer must agree on the part’s measurements and specifications. The aspects that require approval include:
- The size of the part
- The shape of the part
- The part’s components
The approval phase is essential, because when it comes to large-scale or precision machining, any error or misunderstanding regarding a part can create significant problems.
2. Create a model
Once the technical drawings have been approved, the second step can begin. This step involves creating a model of the part to make sure that all of the specifications are correct when the part is produced to scale.
Although current technology makes it possible to create a 3D rendering of the part without needing to machine a physical model, the practice remains common.
3. Determine which machining techniques to use
Now that the part is ready to be machined, it’s important to determine which technique to use. There are a variety of machining techniques, each with its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to precision, complexity and volume.
Machining processes include milling, drilling, mortising, turning, and boring. Generally, the machinist decides which technique will be most suitable for creating the part.
4. Select the machine tool
At this point, the machinist is almost ready to begin crafting the part. All that remains is to choose which machine tool to use. Like the machining technique, the machine tool is selected based on the complexity of the part. Some machines are able to work on multiple axes at once for increased precision. It all depends on what needs to be done.
5. Machine the part
Machining is the penultimate step of the process. By the time the actual machining takes place, most of the work has already been done. It’s the preparation that takes the most time and resources.
If all the calculations have been analyzed and approved and the necessary materials are at hand, the machining step should go off without a hitch. The machinist is responsible for machining the part according to the plans provided. They can begin with a computerized cutting tool and then perform manual cuts to give the part the desired finish.
6. Quality control
Last but not least, the part must go through quality control. The piece will be analyzed to make sure that everything is consistent with the original plans and that there are no errors or defects.
Quality control generally involves a series of tests the factory performs to assess the part’s strength, response, etc. It will also be carefully measured to check whether it matches the planned dimensions.
For perfect results, get your parts machined by HARtech!
Machining is complex work that requires a great deal of expertise and resources. If you are looking into hiring a machining company in Montreal, watching out for the steps of the machining process will help you determine whether you are dealing with true machining professionals.
HARtech offers custom industrial machining services. With our extensive expertise, we can confidently machine even the most complex parts. We have a vast array of skills that range from metallizing to welding.
Contact us today! Our team will be happy to answer your questions and handle your requests. You can trust HARtech with your precision machining—check out our projects page to see the extent of our expertise!
