Precision engineering

Precision machining requires machine, tool, process and operator to work together at the same time, because even a small deviation in one factor can decide the difference between an approved and a scrapped component. We therefore work systematically to keep the geometric accuracy of our machines under control through continuous calibration, while tool selection is tailored to the specific job rather than applying a general standard.

The operator's experience plays a direct role in precision machining, because many of the adjustments that keep a process stable require a feel for how the material behaves that cannot fully be captured in a programme. We therefore place emphasis on involving experienced employees in the start-up of new, critical jobs, while routine jobs can increasingly be left to automated setups.

The interplay between these four factors also means that a change in any one of them, for example a new tool or a new material batch, requires a fresh assessment of whether the process still holds the agreed tolerances. We therefore always validate a change before introducing it into an ongoing series, rather than assuming a previously approved process automatically remains stable.

Engineering polymers such as POM are widely used in precision components, where low weight, electrical insulation or chemical resistance matter more than the strength metal would provide. Machining polymers makes different demands than metal, because the material is more sensitive to heat build-up from the cutting process, and internal stresses in the material can cause dimensional changes after machining if the process is not adapted.

Composites and other polymers add further complexity, because material composition can vary from batch to batch, requiring us to pay attention to material certificates and adjust the process from batch to batch where necessary. Where possible, we recommend testing a new material batch on a small scale before a full series is put into production, to avoid surprises in a large order.

Surface quality on polymer components can be just as important as on metal components, particularly where the part is visible on the customer's product or forms part of an assembly where sealing depends on the surface finish. We tailor tool geometry and cutting parameters specifically to each polymer type to achieve the desired finish without additional finishing.

When a precision part deviates from tolerance, we systematically investigate the whole process to find the actual cause, rather than simply correcting the symptom. This can involve reviewing tool data, fixture documentation, material certificates and machine data from the relevant period to find the factor that caused the deviation.

The root-cause analysis is documented, and the results are used to adjust the process so the same type of fault does not recur in future orders. For customers requiring formal deviation handling, we provide a written report describing the cause, the corrective action, and how we have ensured the same fault will not occur again.

This systematic approach to troubleshooting means a single deviation rarely repeats in a subsequent series, because the underlying cause has been identified and addressed, rather than treated as an isolated incident. It builds trust with customers who see that a problem is not just fixed but also explained and prevented.

Precision parts are often core components of the customer's product, and they often reveal more about the product's function than a simple turned or milled part would. We therefore treat precision jobs with the same confidentiality as other sensitive customer material, with role-based access to drawings and process data, and we are happy to sign a confidentiality agreement before material is received.

For precision special jobs, where both process and fixturing have been developed in close collaboration with the customer, the developed process is regarded as part of the customer's knowledge, not something we reuse for other customers with similar needs. That also applies to the specific adjustments of cutting parameters and tool geometry developed for a given job.

We store process documentation for precision jobs with the same level of security as drawing material, and access is limited to the employees working directly on the job. Confidential handling is a precondition for attracting customers in defence and other sensitive industries, where product details themselves may be subject to particular secrecy requirements.