When working in an industry where parts designed to low tolerances and demanding standards are the norm, finding a top quality precision machine shop to handle your machining needs is a critical step in the success of the project.
Unfortunately, many online websites and many local shops offer their services as precision shops, but they are not able to produce parts that conform to the standards required within a given industry.
By spending just a small amount of time in learning about any company marketing their services as a precision machine shop it is simple to weed out the average shops from the top quality. While this may add to the initial phase of the project in finding the right provider, it will result in much less time in poorly produced parts and components and the need to reorder and wait.
Track Record
The track record of any precision machine shop is made up of more than just the years in business. Instead, it is a record or a statement about the quality of the products from the shop as well as the shop’s commitment to customers.
With precision machining contracts or jobs, quality is obviously going to be the primary consideration. However, the company’s ability to deliver on your timetable and as promised is equally important. With even the top shop if they are irregular in delivery or constantly behind in getting the parts and components to you when you need them, they are not the right company to be doing business with.
Expertise in Precision Work
Not all machine shops, regardless of how they market their services, are going to be able to create the types of parts and components needed in specific industries. For true expertise and work that is guaranteed to be to standard choose a shop that is registered. Ideally look for a precision machine shop that is AS9100 and ISO 9001 registered.
Also, check the quality control practices within the shop and during the machining of the components. These are some shops offering only a final check after the prototype has been developed, while others will have both the prototype or First Article Inspection coupled with regular inspections during production and a final inspection to ANSI requirements.
Taking the time to find out as much as possible about a precision machine shop, including making a call and discussing the specifications of the project, is always important for a first order. This will ensure the right shop is selected, and the job is done as required.
