Allied Metal's Manufacturing Community--FAQs
At Allied Metal, we’ve been solving complex manufacturing challenges. Over the years, we’ve found that clear communication is the key to a successful project. To help you get the answers you need quickly, we’ve compiled this list of our most frequently asked questions.
General CNC Machining FAQs
Q1: What services does Allied Metal offer?
We specialize in precision CNC milling and CNC turning services, including 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining. We also provide comprehensive secondary processing and surface treatment services, including anodizing, powder coating, heat treatment, electroplating, and assembly services.
Q2: What is the difference between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining?
- 3-Axis: The standard. The cutting tool moves in X, Y, and Z directions. Ideal for simpler parts without complex geometries.
- 4-Axis: Adds rotation around the X-axis (A-axis). Perfect for machining features on the sides of a part, like cam profiles or helical grooves, in a single setup.
- 5-Axis: Adds a second rotational axis (usually around the Y-axis, the B-axis). This allows us to machine highly complex, organic shapes (like aerospace or medical components) from nearly any angle in a single setup, which dramatically improves accuracy and reduces lead time.
Click to learn more about the differences between 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining.
Q3: What materials can you machine?
- Metals: Aluminum (e.g., 6061, 7075), Stainless Steel (e.g., 303, 304, 316), Steel (e.g., 1018, 4140), Brass, Copper, Titanium, and exotic alloys.
Plastics: ABS, Delrin (POM), Nylon (PA), PEEK, Polycarbonate, PTFE (Teflon®), UHMW.
For more material information, please visit our Materials page.
Q4: What are your standard tolerances?
Our standard machining tolerance is ±0.005″ (±0.127mm). We routinely hold tolerances as tight as ±0.0005″ (±0.0127mm) for critical features when required. Always specify critical tolerances on your drawing.
Q5: Can you help with Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback?
Absolutely. This is a core part of our service. Before we even provide a quote, our engineers will review your design and suggest modifications to reduce cost, improve strength, simplify machining, and ensure the part can be made correctly the first time. We see ourselves as your manufacturing partner.
File Upload & Quotation Questions
Q6: How do I get a quote?
The easiest way is to use the “Instant Quote“ tool on our website (www.alliedcn.com). You will need to upload your files and provide details on quantity, material, and finishing.
Q7: What file formats do you accept for a quote?
We prefer STEP or IGES for 3D models and PDF for 2D drawings. However, we can accept almost any format, including SLDPRT, DWG, DXF, X_T, and STP.
Q8: Why do you need a 2D drawing if I already provided a 3D model?
The 3D model defines the geometry, but the 2D drawing is the legal document that specifies all critical details: critical dimensions and tolerances, thread specs, surface finish requirements, material specs, and plating/callouts. It eliminates all ambiguity.
Q9: I received the quote. Why is there a one-time “Setup” or “Programming” cost?
This fee covers the engineering time required to program the CNC machines, design and qualify custom fixtures, and prove out the machining process. It is a first-time cost. Subsequent orders for the same part will typically not incur this fee again, making per-part prices lower for repeat orders.
Q10: Why is the first part more expensive per unit than a higher quantity?
Economies of scale. The setup cost is amortized over the entire production run. For one part, you absorb the full setup cost. For 100 parts, that setup cost is divided by 100, significantly reducing the cost per part.
Material & Process
Q11: What’s the best (and cheapest) metal for prototyping?
6061 Aluminum is the most common choice. It’s affordable, readily available, machines easily and quickly, has good strength-to-weight ratio, and can be easily anodized.
Q12: Should I choose Stainless Steel 303 or 304?
- 303: Superior machinability. Choose this if you have a part with many complex features or tight tolerances as it is easier on tools and faster to machine.
- 304: Superior corrosion resistance and weldability. Choose this for marine, chemical, or food-grade applications, but expect a slightly higher machining cost.
Q13: What is the difference between Anodizing Type II and Type III (Hardcoat)?
- Type II (Standard): Primarily for cosmetic appearance and light corrosion resistance. Available in many colors.
- Type III (Hardcoat): Much thicker and harder. Used for wear resistance, thermal resistance, and increased surface hardness. It is not as colorful (usually only black, dark gray, or clear).
Q14: My part has a deep pocket with sharp internal corners. Can you machine that?
Standard end mills are round, so they cannot create a perfectly sharp internal corner; there will always be a radius. If you require a true sharp corner, it may require EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) services, which we can also quote.
Ordering & Procedures
Q15: How do I place an order after I accept the quote?
Simply reply to your quote email stating you would like to proceed. We will then generate a formal Purchase Order (PO) and sales order for your review and approval.
Q16: Do you offer First Article Inspection (FAI) and provide reports?
Yes. We highly recommend and often perform FAI on new parts, especially those with tight tolerances. We can provide a full AS9102-compliant FAI report with the first parts to give you complete confidence that everything is to print.
Q17: What is your policy on design changes after an order is placed?
Please notify us immediately. Any changes made after the manufacturing process has begun (programming, fixturing) will likely impact the cost and delivery schedule. We will provide a new quote for the changes before proceeding.
Delivery & Timelines
Q18: What is your typical lead time? For standard machined parts:
- Prototyping (1-10 pcs): 1-2 weeks.
- Low-volume production (10-100 pcs): 1-4 weeks. Lead times vary significantly based on part complexity, current shop workload, and material availability. We will always provide a firm lead time with your quote.
Q19: What shipping methods do you use?
We ship globally via FedEx, UPS, and DHL for standard parcels. For large or heavy orders, we can use freight carriers. You can specify your preferred method.
Q20: Can you hold my order to match a specific project date?
Yes. We offer kitting and scheduled release programs for our regular customers. We can manufacture your parts and hold them in our warehouse for just-in-time (JIT) delivery.
Payment & Invoicing
Q21: What are your payment terms?
Standard terms are Net 30 for established and approved commercial accounts. For new customers, we typically require payment upfront or upon order confirmation for the first project.
Q22: What payment methods do you accept?
We accept wire transfer (ACH), credit card (with a processing fee), and check.
Q23: Will I be updated on the status of my order?
Yes. You will receive notifications at key stages: order confirmation, programming/fixturing completion, production start, and upon shipment with tracking information.
After-Sales Support
Q24: What if I receive the parts and find an issue?
Contact us immediately. We stand behind our work. We will initiate a thorough investigation into any non-conformance. If the error is on our end, we will rectify the situation immediately by remaking the parts at no cost and covering the expedited shipping.
Q25: Do you keep my design files confidential?
Yes. Absolutely. All customer data is treated as strictly confidential. We sign NDAs as a standard practice and will never use, share, or reference your designs for any other purpose. Your IP is safe with us.
Q26: Do you offer volume discounts for long-term production?
Yes. We specialize in building long-term partnerships. As order volumes increase, we will work with you to identify cost-saving opportunities through value engineering, dedicated tooling, and optimized production scheduling to offer you the best possible pricing.
