Custom machining is so much a part of our day and age, that most people never even give it a thought. However, our modern world would not be where it is today without this useful process. Custom machining processes are used to make just about everything that is made from metal. Engine parts and tools cannot be made without using this process. It is used to make metal parts for many things apart from those mentioned.
It is not only metal that benefits from custom machining, but it is used in the production of timber parts of all kinds too. Everything from window blinds and shutters to windows, doors and cladding products are made using this process. In fact the process is also used to make plastic parts for a great number of things. Really, almost anything that is made from any substance can be said to go through the custom machining process.
It is used to manufacture the tiniest parts that may be used for lifesaving devices such as pacemakers, parts that go into mobile phones and parts for electronic equipment of all kinds as well as huge parts far bigger than a man. These parts can be for huge ocean liners, buildings, mining and agricultural equipment, plumbing supplies, optical devices and for use in aerospace industries – you name it and it will have been machined to certain specifications.
So what kind of tools and equipment are needed for the process? Lathes are one of the main tools that are much used to manufacture custom parts and accessories. You can get special lathes for metal and for timber. Often they are automated to ensure that no human error ruins the complex procedure necessary for making intricate parts. They work with computers and software designed to work out the exact measurements and everything else that is needed to create the right custom parts.
CAD or CAM software allows the parts to be designed and even worked in 3D to see if they are of the right design and capability before any prototypes are made. This saves both time and costs, as if the part is not the right size and shape it can then be re-designed until the design engineers know that it is right. Many specialist machinists and technicians are needed to work together on producing such parts.
Of course there are many other types of machines that are used to create all kinds of things and that use custom machining to do so. Laser technology ensures that all the measurements are perfect and has been used to good effect to save time and money by getting it right the first time. As modern technology improves such services are provided at increasing levels of efficiency all the time, making it possible to design and make even more intricate items.
Looking back, it is not that many years ago since such things would have been impossible to make, but with all the new machines coming into production all the time, who knows what will be possible in the future?