Sometimes parts need to be machined (instead of using other methods), even if it’s a one-off prototype. This could be because of certain material requirements (e.g. PTFE, titanium, G-10 composite), tight tolerances, cosmetic finishes, or other needed attributes best made through CNC machining and turning services.
CNC machining can be costly, but luckily, manufacturing platforms like Xometry can take on high-mix, low-volume work CNC jobs through a cost-effective network of machine job shops. Manufacturing networks offer the best value for prototype CNC manufacturing, delivering both low costs and short lead times.
But beyond a high-quality manufacturer, what else can you do to save on your milled prototypes? Follow these four tips on prototyping, design, and supply chain best practices.
The number one cost driver for most prototype projects is scope creep. This is where the “nice-to-have” features are bundled in the same group as the “need-to-have” requirements. When structuring your prototype quote, a helpful phrase to ask yourself, your customer, or your engineers is: Is this a requirement or desirement? Yes, “desirement” is a made up word, but it drives home the point that the goal of prototyping is to bring you to the next development step. Everything else, even if it will ultimately be part of the final product specification, is superfluous for your immediate success. Here are some common questions to ask yourself:
Many high-volume metal manufacturing methods such as die-casting can be prototyped using CNC machining. If possible, a die-cast design should have all drafts removed to dramatically reduce costs and machine time when CNC machining. This is because die casting design practices are similar to injection molding, requiring draft angles. A 3-degree draft across a series of features requires a milling process called surfacing, where a small mill moves in small increments to make a sloped feature. This can often more than double the price due to overhead time. By suppressing drafts, or minimizing the need to surface in general, you will get the same performance without added costs.
Xometry offers competitive pricing for one-off CNC machined parts. However, the per piece price will still dramatically decrease over even a few added quantities. This is because setups are shared between machined parts. When quoting for prototype milled parts, it is good practice to see what the price of adding 1 or 2 additional pieces will be by changing quantities—the price difference is often smaller than you think.
The best part about Xometry’s online instant quoting site is its ease and transparency when pricing. You can choose from expedited, standard, or economy options for machined and turned parts. Pricing and lead times on quote automatically update based on applied quantities, features, tolerances, and finishing options. With Xometry, you have dedicated staff available to assist you in your choices and even help you get the most out of your budget.
Learn more about Xometry’s CNC machining service and check out Xometry’s CNC design guide for the best tips on making your prototype project a success. Xometry’s manufacturing on demand services can scale from one to tens of thousands of parts without changing or managing suppliers. Get your instant online price by uploading your 3D CAD file.
