Having a machine shop cnc folder parts for you

[ScottyE]

There's a machine shop nearby that does cnc prototyping and I've been thinking about taking some of my CAD drawings over to have them make some of my folder parts. Has anyone ever done this? Does it cost an arm and a leg?

 

[Bob Ohlemann]

There's a machine shop nearby that does cnc prototyping and I've been thinking about taking some of my CAD drawings over to have them make some of my folder parts. Has anyone ever done this? Does it cost an arm and a leg?

I've farmed work out and done production on my own machining center. Do not get fixed on doing business with that one shop because they are nearby. Prices vary widely and you will need to find the right shop for you and your parts. Parts can often be made in several different ways. For example, folder liners can be cut on a 3-axis VMC, a 5-axis HMC, a waterjet or an EDM. Which will work best for you is going to depend on the precision you require and the price you are willing to pay. Also, be aware that just because they are a CNC prototyping shop, doesn't mean they want your prototypes. Most of these shops are looking for customers with deep pockets.

The first time I had CNC work farmed out, I posted an ad on Practical Machinist. It is a forum dedicated to professional machinists and the industry. I needed some parts turned before I put them in my VMC for additional operations. I got about five replies and sent drawings to three. The highest bid was 3x the lowest and they wanted a setup fee. None were local. I called the guy with the lowest bid. He seemed knowledgeable and easy to talk to so I went with him for a trial run. The parts were perfect and everybody was happy.

My point is, do a lot of research!

Bob

 

[ScottyE]

Thank you that's some awesome advice.

 

[Frank Niro]

This has been going on form many years in the past. I've never had any done but I've never thought of doing say twenty of these or twenty of those the same but there sure isn't anything wrong in doing that. Frank