CNC Machining Is A Cornerstone of The Defense Industry

CNC Machining is a cornerstone of the defense industry. Its significance and impact within this market sector continues to grow. CNC machines produce high-tolerance components for aircraft, space, naval vessels and advanced weaponry. CNC technology helps fortify modern defense capabilities. As a global defense contract manufacturer, Intrex Aerospace continues to innovate and maximize our efficiencies for this market. Our experience working with advanced materials, integration of digital technologies and increasing levels of automation, make us a good fit in this marketplace.

Materials and Precision Engineering

Many of the aerospace and space applications require components that can endure extreme environments. To meet these extreme conditions, the machining of exotic alloys, titanium, composites and ceramics is required.  Precision CNC machines with their rigidity, flexibility, and precision, offer a good solution. Multi-axis CNC machines are becoming increasingly popular. The latest generations of multi-axis machine systems can machine complex shapes parts to tight tolerances. These multi-axis machines require fewer setups, simpler work holding devices, which reduce tolerance stack up, minimizing scrap. Depending on number of spindles and tools available, operator intervention is also lessened.

Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI and Automation are further reshaping CNC machining in the manufacturing and defense sector. AI-driven CNC systems are being used to optimize tool paths and adjust cutting parameters during the machining process. These enhancements to the machining process improves precision, optimize raw material utilization which helps reduce scrap. Higher levels of automation decrease operator intervention, taking human error out of the machining equation, further increasing overall efficiency. Automation can also takeover more repetitive job functions (machine load/unload), allowing the operator more time to focus on higher value tasks. The productivities gained utilizing AI and automation can be a significant source for adding to production efficiencies, which are critical for reducing costs.

Integrating Smart and Connected Manufacturing

In defense applications, Smart Manufacturing is one the transformative developments in CNC machining. The latest generations of CNC machines are increasingly equipped with sensors and connectivity features that enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data analytics. These sorts of capabilities allow manufacturers to detect real time wear and tear on the machines. They can predict machine failures prior to a failure occurrence, improving spindle optimization and machine uptime. This helps stabilize production, increases process flow and complements manufacturing efficiency. Smart manufacturing can be seamlessly integrated with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. By integrating data-driven information into the CNC machining process it gives the manufacturer the flexibility to proactively define scheduling bottlenecks, assist in production decision making, and stabilize product flow which improves efficient manufacturing. This increased level of integration gives agility and responsiveness, two highly valued features in the defense supply chain.

Supply Chain Resilience

Threats and disruptions to the supply chain are ongoing and real. They can take many forms: transportation bottlenecks, material scarcity, geopolitical tensions, all can have a negative effect on vendor performance. We recognize there are some factors and situations that are beyond our control, but with those factors we can control we have made and will continue to make strategic decisions protecting our ability that minimize the impact of these types of disruptions. One example of our proactive initiatives is our raw material acquisition. We source almost all our raw material and special processing from USA sources. The result of our sourcing decisions minimizes (if not eliminates) many tariff issues, simplifies transportation logistics,  and greatly reduces reliance on foreign sourcing, solidifying our supply chain dependability. It also aligns with the “reshoring” initiatives currently being implemented by many DOD Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM’s).

Cybersecurity and Data Integrity

Because of the increased digitalization in manufacturing, cybersecurity risk is heightened. Programs for sensitive Government information are currently being put in-place, to safeguard and secure data and protocols. The US government is on the very cusp of requiring (most if not all) contract CNC manufacturers to conform to higher level of compliance. They have identified a set of security guidelines developed by the National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST SP 800-171). Their purpose is to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in non-federal information systems and organizations. The focus is on safeguarding sensitive government information handled by contractors and other non-federal entities. NIST 800-171 or CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is now in place for OEM’s and Tier 2 suppliers and will soon be mandatory for all defense-related manufacturing contractors.

We Would Like to Hear From You

Intrex has been involved in supplying our defense customers precision CNC machined components and assemblies for many years. Our experience has facilitated our success. Because of our focus on innovation, automation, and connectivity, we look forward to the challenges and opportunities being presented by the defense industry. Our investments in machine tools, software systems and employee training enable us to produce smarter and faster. We look forward to the future.

If you would like to have a conversation about matching your needs with our capabilities, please click here.