Stop Overpaying for Your CNC Parts
In the world of precision manufacturing, there is often a "hidden tax" on parts.
It’s not just the cost of material or labor, it’s the design choices that unintentionally complicate the machining process.
At Aether Flow Tech, we believe the best results happen when we bridge the gap between engineering and manufacturing. Our goal is to deliver high-quality parts without unnecessary expenses.
Here are 5 common design mistakes that can double your machining costs (and how to avoid them):
1. Overly Tight Tolerances
We all want perfection, but ultra-tight tolerances require specialized tooling, slower feed rates, and more frequent inspections.
The Fix: Before applying a ±0.0005 tolerance, consider how the feature functions. Reserve high precision for critical mating surfaces and use standard tolerances elsewhere to keep your project scalable.
2. Overlooking Feature Feasibility
A single hole placed in a hard-to-reach spot can transform a simple 3-axis job into a complex 5-axis setup instantly.
The Fix: Consider how the machine "sees" your part. Can that hole be moved slightly to allow for easier access? Optimizing feature placement keeps your parts on simpler, more cost-effective machines.
3. Modeling Every Tiny Edge Break
Modeling every chamfer or fillet in your CAD file might look great on screen, but it often forces us into 3D milling paths that significantly increase run time.
The Fix: If your goal is simply to remove sharp edges, just add a note to your drawing: "Break all sharp edges." This allows the team at Aether Flow Tech to use simplified toolpaths or manual breaks, saving you significant machine time.
4. Designing Against Raw Material Sizes
If a part is designed at 2.1" thick, we have to source 2.25" stock and mill away the difference. You end up paying for the metal and the time it takes us to turn it into chips.
The Fix: Whenever possible, design with standard raw material sizes in mind (e.g., 0.5", 1", 2"). Designing for standard stock is the fastest way to lower your material bill.
5. Designing in a Vacuum
The most expensive mistake is waiting until a design is "frozen" to talk to your manufacturer. Design shouldn’t happen in isolation.
The Fix: Ask for help! We are happy to discuss manufacturability during your design phase. If you are stuck or considering a complex feature, reach out to us. We’ll work with you to find the right solution for both function and cost.