Custom parts are priced quickly now thanks to the fast competitive quoting side and the online quoting tools available. This process, however, is not as easy as just uploading a design file to get an accurate price. Your project needs to be set up correctly in order to obtain the proper value.
This guide will be a step-by-step through the quoting process. It will contain essential design recommendations and an analysis of the final price quote. While the suggested steps not only lead you to a precise cnc turning online quote but also to high-quality end parts, at Mékalite, we assist you in transforming designs into products.
The Quoting: The 5 Steps to the right quote
The process of getting your cnc turning online quote is certainly not rocket science. But you have to make sure that you follow these 5 easy steps correctly. This roadmap is like a cakewalk for you.
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Finalize Your 3D CAD Design. Before you request a quotation for the cnc turning process, your design has to be finished. Consider double-checking all the features and measurements in the CAD software first. A finished model is key to preventing errors and expensive modifications later on.
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Export to a Compatible File Format. The file format of your design has to be one that the quoting platform can interpret. Most platforms support standard CAD file formats. It is recommended to use the formats STEP (.stp, .step), IGES (.igs, .iges), and Parasolid (.x_t) because they are universal and do not lose the 3D data.
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Upload the File to the Online Quoting Platform. Go to the vendor’s site and locate the quoting tool. You will see a portal where you can drag and drop your CAD file. The system will then analyze your part’s shape.
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Specify Project Requirements. The platform will require further information. This is the point in which you choose the material, the number of parts, and the surface finish. You also will have to specify any particular tolerances on critical features at this time.
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Receive and Analyze Your Quote. The quote is typically produced in just a few minutes. This price is based on the data that you provided. It is essential that you go through the quote thoroughly to fully understand the details.
How to Prepare Your Design for the Best Quote
A reasonably prepared design is the secret to getting a lower cost and a better product. Small changes can have a large effect on the price you are offered. The experience we have in machining several thousand parts brings to you these pieces of advice. The approach of designing for manufacturability, or DFM, is what will help you save money even before you request a cnc turning online quote.
Picking Your Material Right
The material you choose will have an impact on both the cost and the performance. There are materials which are very easy for the machining process which makes them in lower cost brackets, but then there is the material strength which you have to consider while cost machining. It is very critical to prioritize your needs without sacrificing your budget.
Popular types of metals that fine machinery shops like using include Aluminum 6061. It is not only cheap but also very easy to mill. The Stainless Steel 303, also, besides being cost-effective, has good machinability scores. In contrast, Stainless Steel 316 is tougher and more expensive to machine. Plastics on the other hand, for example, Delrin and PEEK are low-weight and machining-friendly materials and their characteristics are basically conflicting.
| Matériau | Coût relatif | Usinabilité | Applications courantes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium 6061 | Faible | Excellent | Prototypes, electronic housings, structural parts |
| Acier inoxydable 303 | Moyen | Bon | Shafts, fittings, fasteners |
| Laiton C360 | Medium-High | Excellent | Plumbing parts, electrical connectors, decorative items |
| Delrin (acétal) | Faible | Excellent | Gears, bearings, high-wear parts |
Defining Tolerances: The #1 Cost Driver
Tolerance figures show the degree of precision that must be maintained in the features. Smaller tolerances bring more precise processing but at the same time the price can be five times higher. Apply tight tolerances only in places where it is really necessary for the part to perform.
Common tolerances are usually around +/- 0.005 inches (or 0.125mm). They are the cheapest solution as well. It is worth mentioning that changing a tolerance to +/- 0.001 inches (0.025mm) increases part costs by 50% to 200%. This is because it requires things like slower machine speeds, special tools, and extra inspection time. For non-critical features, apply the standard tolerances to prevent your online quote for CNC turning from going too high.
DFM Tips for CNC Turning
Simple design rules can make your part much cheaper and faster to produce.
- Wall Thickness: Make the wall’s thickness as even as possible. Thin walls can be flexing or vibrating during machining, which results in lost quality. A good rule is to keep walls thicker than 0.030 inches (0.75mm) for metals.
- Internal Radii: CNC tools are round and create rounded internal corners. Use the highest possible radius for those corners. This makes it possible for the shop to work with standard and stiff tools which saves time and money.
- Hole Depths: Avoid having very deep blind holes. The best guideline is to keep a hole’s depth less than 10 times the diameter. Such holes are deeper and may require special tools that can easily break.
- Threads: Use standard thread dimensions such as UNF, UNC, or Metric sizes. Special threads need special tooling, which increases costs and lead times.
When to Think About Swiss Turning
Standard CNC turning is not the best method to use for all parts. If a component is very small, thin, or long, or if it is very complicated, you may want to use a different machine.
Swiss turning is a CNC turning method that is employed for high-precision and intricate processing. In a Swiss machine, the part moves through a guide bushing. This keeps the part near the cutting tool and prevents it from bending, allowing for tight tolerances. If you have such a project that is specific for this, feel free to find out about our specialized Services de tournage CNC suisse.
Reading Your CNC Turning Quote
As soon as you get a cnc turning online quote, it is necessary to find out what it encompasses. This price is more than just a number. Splitting the costs helps you identify them and suggest the right changes in your design.
Typical Components of a Quote
Most quotes have sections. Understanding sections of a quote makes it easy assessing the total cost.
- Frais de mise en place : Every new order is charged this one-time fee. This is the programming time for the CNC machine and the time to prepare any special fixtures to run. This cost remains fixed no matter how many parts you order.
- Coûts des matériaux : The expense of the raw material needed for manufacturing parts is the material cost. The cost is dependent on the type of material being used and the amount needed for the job.
- Machining Time: This is a major contributor to the cost of the part as it is the period during which the CNC machine is cutting your part. Complex shapes and strict tolerances will increase the processing time.
- Finishing Costs: If your part needs extra steps like anodizing, bead blasting, or plating, these will be listed as separate costs.
Understanding Price Breaks
The quantity has a tremendous effect on the unit price. The cost of the setup will be distributed to all the pieces from the order. It means that when you boost the number of parts ordered, the setup cost per part decreases a lot.
For example, a single part could cost $150 because the full setup fee is included in that cost. But if you order ten parts, the cost might drop to $25 per part. If you ask for one hundred parts they would be as low as $8 each. Checking prices for various quantities is the best way to get the best offer.
Instant vs. Manual Quotes
There are two primary types of quotes that you can obtain. Each one has its own benefits. It is essential to know which one is most appropriate for your project.
| Quote Type | Pour | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Quote | Very fast (seconds to minutes). Good for DFM feedback. | May not be accurate for very complex parts. |
| Manual Quote | Reviewed by an expert engineer. Best for complex parts or special needs. | Slower turnaround (a few hours to a day). |
Finding a Good Team to Work With
Getting a good value for a service you need is very important; however, having a trustworthy partner is even more critical. A dependable supplier will always ensure the parts are done on time and of good quality. When you are evaluating a CNC turning provider, you should look for several key points.
First, check if they have the latest CNC lathes with features like live tooling. This would enable more complex parts to be made in a single setup. Their site should also list the part size limitations for CNC turning to confirm they can handle your project’s scale. A good partner, such as Hubs.com, will list their machine specifications clearly.
Next, look at the materials they have. They should also possess quality certifications showing that they are responsible for maintaining a good quality management system. Furthermore, they should connect you with experts. Thus, you will have the opportunity to discuss the design with an engineer and find out if there are better options.
At Mekalite, we are utilizing both cutting-edge technology and expert support staff. Our commitment is to ensure you win. Do you want to turn this knowledge into practice? Then, visit our Service de tournage CNC and get started with your project now.
Conclusion: From Quote to Quality Part
Getting a cnc turning online quote quickly and accurately is easy if you plan ahead. A well thought out design, a clear understanding of your needs, and a strong manufacturing partner are the keys to success. This guide will help you ensure that your project goes smoothly from a quote to a quality finished part.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most common CAD file format for a CNC turning online quote?
STEP (.stp, .step) is the most widely used format. It is a neutral 3D file type that accurately keeps all the geometric data of your design. Other common formats include IGES and Parasolid (X_T).
How can I reduce the cost of my CNC turned part?
The three best ways to lower costs are: 1) Use standard tolerances instead of tight ones where possible, 2) Choose a more machinable material like Aluminum 6061, and 3) Order in higher quantities to take advantage of price breaks.
What’s the difference between CNC turning and CNC milling?
In CNC turning, the material spins while a stationary tool cuts it, which is ideal for round or cylindrical parts like shafts and pins. In CNC milling, the tool spins and moves across a fixed piece of material, which is used for blocky or more complex shapes.
How long does it typically take to get an online quote?
An “instant” cnc turning online quote is usually created by software in seconds or minutes after you upload your file. For very complex parts that need an engineer’s review, a manual quote may take a few hours up to one business day.
Is my intellectual property (IP) safe when I upload a design file?
Yes. Reputable online CNC services use secure, encrypted websites to protect your data. They also have strict privacy policies and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to ensure your design files and intellectual property are kept confidential. Always review a provider’s security policy.
