Selecting the Right USA CNC Manufacturer

Selecting the right USA CNC (Computer Numerical Control) manufacturer is an important decision. The selection and implementation requires planning and execution. Making the right (or the wrong) decision can have a significant impact on the bottom line. There are many factors to think through in making an informed sourcing decision. Below are some key elements for consideration for putting together a successful sourcing gameplan.

Knowing and Understanding Your Requirements

• Develop a specific definition of needs and expectations.
• Define specific parts that are to be included in your scope of work
• Define part shapes/level of complexity/part tolerances/work volumes
• Identify raw materials to be used
• Define all special processing needed
• Pricing requirements
• Delivery requirements
• Logistics/transportation

By identifying and prioritizing actual needs, you can more easily target potential CNC manufacturers and quickly eliminate those that do not fit your criteria, reducing your search timeframe.

Evaluate Equipment and Technology

Part of the manufacturer evaluation is their equipment. Does the company being considered have up-to-date machinery and support equipment capable of producing your parts, both in terms of machining shapes, tolerance and volume? What level of technology is the overall plant equipment and supporting software systems? Has the CNC manufacturer made investment that would facilitate success?

Modern well maintained equipment is foundational for producing quality parts. If the CNC manufacturer has not made the necessary capital investments, it will be difficult for them to provide precision parts at competitive prices.

Quality Control Standards

To successfully produce precision parts you need reliable equipment teamed with a vigorous quality control system. Dependable CNC manufacturers prioritize quality control during every stage of production. Certifications are one measure of quality commitment. Intrex Aerospace has ISO 9001 and AS9100 certifications and is ITAR registered. They also have a QMS (quality management system) fully integrated to their ERP/MRP system. In the aerospace world quality is measured, monitored and documented at every level of the manufacturing process. Maintaining certifications and measuring metrics is an indispensable part of high performance.

Quality Measurement Equipment

Part of the commitment to quality is investing in quality systems,  measuring equipment and tools, capable of performing measurement to the level that the customer requires. Recognizing this, Intrex has made significant investments in multiple CMM’s (coordinate measuring machine), some located on the production floor within machine cells, close to the machining source. They also have CMM’s located in their quality lab. Coupling modern CNC machines with strategically placed CMM’s  is a winning combination.

Staff and System Capabilities

The best CNC manufacturers have knowledgeable experienced staffs, capable of responding to your manufacturing needs. Basic questions to ask are:

• Do they have an experienced machining group?
• Are they familiar with your materials?
• Is there adequate engineering support available?
• Do they have a formal operator training system in place?
• Is there ERP/MRP system capable of managing your production requirements? Is it flexible?
• What are their performance metrics (OTD’s/PPM’s)?

The current economic ordering trends have moved from high volume to low-to-medium volume. This places inventory restrictions that  put an incumbrance on the CNC manufacturer. The have to be more flexible as they match lower volume production and still maintain or decrease costs. This can only be achieved with modern efficient equipment and systems, dialed-in machine setups, and an experienced staff that understands what it takes to get the job done.

Shipping, Communication and Support

Effective communication and proximity to the manufacturing source is essential for success. Choose a manufacturer that has a proven customer support record and a willingness to collaborate closely on a project. Transparency is vital.

Location can also be important. If the manufacturer is located where timely communication is a problem, having to cross (multiple times zones, borders/oceans), to resolve issues, can be time consuming, thus costly and inefficient. Shipping cost usually increase  the greater the distance. Initial cost advantages are quickly lost due to inherent location inefficiencies. Shipping securities and tariff consideration across national borders can also be a factor.

ITAR

If part of your manufacturing requirement is supplying parts to the US government, ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) governs the export and import of defense-related services. Your USA CNC manufacturing source would also have to meet ITAR compliance. Intrex Aerospace has many years working with ITAR parts and is very familiar with the process.

Summary

When selecting the right USA CNC manufacturer as noted, there is much to consider, but it need not be overwhelming. Detailed above is a systematic approach, not intended to be all inclusive, but we believe addresses the major considerations for selecting the “right” CNC manufacturer.

Intrex Aerospace has built a successful business based on years of experience responding to the aerospace market and the dynamics as detailed above. If you would like to find out more about our company, we would welcome a conversation. Please click here.