CNC Machining FAQ
This FAQ addresses the most common questions about our CNC machining services, covering Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ), Lead Times, Quotation Process, File Formats, and Custom Services. If you don’t find the answer you need here, please contact our engineering team directly for a personalized consultation.
1. Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
Q: What is your minimum order quantity for CNC machined parts?
A: Our standard MOQ is 1 piece. We specialize in on-demand manufacturing, which means you can order a single prototype, a small batch for pilot runs, or full-scale production quantities. There is no minimum order requirement—you only pay for the parts you need.
Q: Do you offer discounts for larger quantities?
A: Yes, volume pricing is applied based on the total quantity of identical parts. As the quantity increases, the per-part cost decreases due to optimized setups, fixturing, and toolpath efficiency. A typical price break curve is shown below:
| Quantity Range | Typical Per-Part Cost Factor | Lead Time Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – 5 pcs (Prototype) | Baseline (100%) | Expedited production possible |
| 10 – 50 pcs (Small Batch) | ~60% – 80% of prototype cost | Moderate scheduling flexibility |
| 100 – 500 pcs (Medium Batch) | ~40% – 60% of prototype cost | Dedicated production line allocation |
| 1000+ pcs (Volume Production) | Contact for optimized volume pricing | Kanban / scheduled releases available |
Q: Can I order a single prototype and then ramp up to volume production seamlessly?
A: Absolutely. Our process is designed to support this path. The same CAM programs, fixtures, and quality plans developed during the prototype phase are documented and can be immediately reused for production, ensuring dimensional consistency and a smooth transition from concept to market.
Key Takeaway No minimum order constraint means you can iterate designs quickly without financial pressure, then scale up when your design is validated.
2. Lead Time
Q: What is your typical lead time for CNC machined parts?
A: Standard lead times range from 3 to 10 business days, depending on part complexity, material availability, and quantity. For simple parts with readily available stock material, we can often deliver within 3–5 days. Complex 5-axis parts or those requiring special materials (e.g., titanium, Inconel) may take 7–10 days.
| Project Type | Typical Lead Time | Factors That May Extend Lead Time |
|---|---|---|
| Simple turned/milled parts (aluminum, steel) | 3 – 5 business days | Special surface treatment (anodizing, plating), high Qty |
| Moderate complexity (multi-axis, tight tolerances) | 5 – 7 business days | Material procurement (exotic alloys), complex GD&T inspection |
| Complex 5-axis parts (aerospace, medical) | 7 – 10 business days | Post-machining processes (heat treating, passivation), FAI reporting |
| Expedited / Rush orders | 1 – 2 business days (where possible) | Expedited shipping costs may apply; limited to in-stock materials |
Q: Can you guarantee a delivery date? How do you handle urgent orders?
A: Once your order is confirmed and material is secured, we provide a committed ship date. We maintain detailed production schedules and use real-time capacity monitoring to ensure on-time delivery. For urgent projects, we offer an express service with accelerated programming, machine allocation, and shipping. Please indicate your required delivery date when requesting a quote, and we will confirm feasibility.
Lead Time Tip To minimize lead time, specify materials we commonly stock (6061 aluminum, 304 stainless, POM) and provide complete, unambiguous 3D models and 2D drawings. Clear documentation reduces quotation back-and-forth and prevents delays.
3. Quotation Process
Q: How do I get a quotation for my CNC parts?
A: Simply send your 3D CAD model (STEP, IGES) and a 2D PDF or DWG drawing to our email or upload via our portal. For complex assemblies, a Bill of Materials (BOM) or assembly drawing is helpful. We typically provide a detailed quotation within 24 hours for standard parts, and within 1–2 business days for complex projects.
Q: What information is required for an accurate quote?
A: The following information ensures the fastest, most accurate quotation:
- Material Type & Grade (e.g., 6061-T6 Aluminum, 316L Stainless Steel, PEEK)
- Quantity (single prototype, small batch, or volume production)
- Surface Finish / Treatment (e.g., as-machined, anodized (color), bead blasted, passivated, powder coated)
- Tolerances (reference general tolerances like ±0.1mm unless tighter tolerances are specified for critical features)
- Required Delivery Date (to evaluate scheduling and express options)
- Inspection/Reporting Requirements (standard dimensional report, full FAI, material certs, CoC)
Q: Is there a cost for quotation? Will my design be kept confidential?
A: Quotations are completely free and carry no obligation. Your design files are treated with strict confidentiality. We are happy to sign an NDA before you submit any files. Our internal data security protocols ensure your intellectual property is protected throughout the quoting and manufacturing process.
Quotation Tip For multi-part assemblies, providing a single STEP file with all components in their assembled position helps us quickly identify critical interfaces, potential interferences, and advise on tolerance stack-ups, often leading to cost-saving design suggestions.
4. Accepted File Formats
Q: What CAD file formats do you accept for CNC machining?
A: We accept all major CAD formats, but we strongly recommend the following for the most seamless data transfer and machining accuracy:
2. IGES (.iges, .igs) — Suitable for complex surface models; widely used in aerospace and automotive industries.
3. DWG (.dwg) / DXF (.dxf) — For 2D drawings and flat patterns. Please dimension all critical features and specify tolerances.
4. PDF (.pdf) — For reference drawings, assembly instructions, or supplementary specification sheets. Do not use as the sole source of dimensional data.
5. SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm) — Native files accepted; we can extract the complete design tree, which is helpful for complex families of parts.
Q: I only have a 2D drawing. Can you manufacture from that?
A: Yes, we can manufacture directly from a fully dimensioned 2D drawing (DWG or PDF). However, for parts with complex 3D contours or non-prismatic features, a 3D model is required to generate efficient CNC toolpaths and ensure correct geometry. We can also offer reverse-engineering services to create a 3D model from a 2D drawing or a physical sample, if needed.
Important Note Always include a 2D drawing with your 3D model, clearly marking critical dimensions, tolerances, surface finish requirements, and datums. The 3D model defines the geometry, while the 2D drawing communicates the design intent and inspection criteria.
5. Custom Services & Value-Added Capabilities
Q: What custom services do you offer beyond basic CNC machining?
A: We provide a comprehensive range of custom manufacturing solutions to meet your project needs from start to finish. Our services include:
- Design for Manufacturability (DFM) Feedback: Our engineers review your design for machinability, cost reduction, and lead time optimization before production begins. We suggest practical modifications to improve part quality and reduce costs without compromising function.
- Reverse Engineering: From physical samples or hand sketches, we can create precise 3D CAD models using CMM scanning and laser scanning technology.
- Custom Surface Finishing: Anodizing (clear, colored, hardcoat), electropolishing, passivation, powder coating, bead blasting, laser engraving, and silk screening. We manage the entire finishing process to ensure consistent quality and color matching.
- Sub-Assembly & Kitting: We assemble multiple machined components with purchased hardware (bearings, seals, fasteners) and deliver ready-to-install sub-assemblies, reducing your internal assembly labor and supply chain complexity.
- Custom Packaging & Labeling: Parts are cleaned, deburred, and packaged according to your specifications—individual anti-static bags, foam-lined boxes, custom crates, or labeled with your part numbers and barcodes for seamless inventory management.
- Material Sourcing & Special Alloys: We source and machine specialized materials including titanium grades, Inconel, Hastelloy, tool steels, engineering plastics (PEEK, Ultem, PPS), and composites. Full material certifications are provided.
- Expedited Prototyping & Bridge Production: Fast-turn prototyping to accelerate your R&D cycles, followed by bridge production runs while your injection molding or casting tooling is being manufactured.
Q: Can you handle complex projects requiring multiple processes and strict documentation?
A: Yes. Many of our customers in aerospace, medical, and robotics present us with complex parts that require not only high-precision machining but also specific heat treatments, non-destructive testing (NDT) coordination, and full AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI) reports. We have a dedicated quality engineering team that manages the entire process flow, ensuring all sub-processes are controlled and fully documented.
Q: What if I have a design that I’m not sure can be machined?
A: Send us your concept—a sketch, a 3D model, or even just a description—and our engineering team will assess its manufacturability. We provide a free feasibility review with suggestions on how to achieve your design goals while optimizing for cost and efficiency. There is no charge for this consultation.
Custom Service Promise We treat every project as a partnership. From initial idea to final part, our team is dedicated to solving manufacturing challenges and delivering quality components that precisely match your application requirements.
6. Still Have Questions?
This FAQ covers the most common inquiries, but every project is unique. For specific questions about MOQ flexibility, a tailored lead-time estimate, a detailed quotation, or the best way to prepare your CAD files, please contact our applications engineering team. We respond to all queries within one business day, and we’re happy to discuss your project in depth with no obligation.
Email: [email protected] | Phone: +86 17322374563
Ready to start? Upload your files and request a quote through our online portal for the fastest service.