Our on-site engineers are able to take a conceptual sketch or a handmade prototype and input specifications into our high-speed, computer-aided design (CAD) software. This software then provides tool-path information to the milling machines, allowing production to begin as quickly as possible. Using CAD software, such as Solid Works, allows us to create products with a variety of design data and with optimal efficiency, reducing cost and set-up time. Engineering services are available at competitive pricing. Additionally, our custom-designed, work-holding fixtures drastically reduce machine time and cost. We customize the production process to meet your deadlines and pre-production needs, and we deliver on time no matter the size or complexity of the order.

Our vertical and horizontal machines provide speed and accuracy in aluminum machining.

Here is a list of all the types of machines we us.

CNC Milling
CNC (computer numerical control) mills are operated by axis controls from a computer. Three axes, x, y, and z, guide the horizontal and vertical movement of the cutting tool. The cutting tool rotates on an axis perpendicular to the surface holding the work piece, which can be a block of some type of metal. The rotating cutting tool then removes material from the work piece as it makes contact. CNC machines can produce two of the same part with cuts on both only a few ten thousandths of an inch off from each other, while two of the same part produced by a basic milling machine can be off by two thousandths of an inch.




Milling
Milling is the process of cutting away material from a solid work piece with a rotating cutter. As the material is removed, the work piece transforms into any number of desired shapes. A milling machine provides the surface for holding the work piece, rotates the cutting tool, and moves the cutting tool along three axes to cut the work piece. While drill presses only allow for vertical movement (z axis) of the cutting tool against a stationary work piece, milling allows for x and y axis movement as well. As a result, milling machines can produce a wide variety of intricate parts and molds.

Swiss-type Lathes
A metal bar is inserted into a Swiss-type lathe machine where it is gripped by two spindles. These spindles hold the bar in place and spin it. Unlike normal lathe machines in which the tool moves and the bar is stationary, the bar moves relative to the stationary lathe tool in Swiss-type lathes, carving out threads or grooves. Our machine also functions as a mill drill, which enables it to drill holes through the sides of the pieces after the lathe work is complete.

Vertical and Horizontal Milling

Vertical Milling
In a vertical milling machine the spindle axis on which the cutting tool rotates is vertically oriented. The tool is then raised, lowered, and moved from side to side to cut the work piece, which rests on a table. The table can also be raised and lowered to the same effect. When work pieces are cut from the top, the cut-away material, or metal shavings, can create problems for the cutting action as they pile up around the cutter. However, this is generally not an issue because of a constant stream of liquid that serves to clear the work area as well as cool the workpiece.

Horizontal Milling
In a horizontal milling machine the spindle and cutting tool are positioned on a horizontal axis. The work piece is placed perpendicular to the cutting tool on a pallet. Like vertical milling, the spindle is then adjusted along its axis to cut the work piece. The cutting tool and work piece's horizontal orientation allow for the cut-away material to fall away from the cut, providing an obstacle-free surface. Horizontal machines' work pieces can be changed out within minutes while the machine is still running, while it can take a couple hours to change out a work piece in a vertical machine. As a result, horizontal machines can handle much greater volumes.