Precision Swiss Screw Machine – Medical Device

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Health benefits

Medical device components made with Precision Swiss Screw Machines meet the highest standards of health care industry

The medical device industry faces ever-increasing challenges as manufacturers produce ever more complex products and equipment. These manufacturers often make the life-saving products that medical professionals and patients rely on every day, from ventilators and syringes to implantable devices such as pacemakers. The industry must also satisfy stringent, government regulatory oversight, including manufacturing and quality control practices.

To remain competitive and help meet regulatory standards, medical device companies are turning to the latest manufacturing technologies to maximize production and quality. And while Swiss screw machine technology is not new, the medical device industry is seeing the benefits of these types of machines more and more, from precision and reliability to speed and flexibility.

In this post, we will look at some of the benefits of Swiss screw technology for medical device manufacturers.

Complex product mixes – Many medical device manufacturers have widely varied product mixes and require the flexibility to make production changeovers quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, many medical devices are made with a wide range of different components which requires the same production flexibility. Depending on the type of equipment, Swiss screw machines can have as many as 4 or 5 tools working together to speed changeover and operation time for unequaled efficiency. Set up times on the Swiss screw machine are significantly shorter as well, resulting in faster delivery of components.

Superior accuracy and tolerances – The demand for high volume, precision components continues to grow rapidly in the medical device industry. Even simple components such pneumatic control valves or linear motion components must meet strict tolerances to ensure error-free performance. Swiss screw technology delivers that accuracy through better support for all stock material. That’s because the part moves while the tooling is stationary. There is less risk of the support material moving resulting in high precision accuracy. A process called guide bushing further enhances rigidity to produce higher tolerances on Swiss style tools.

Regulatory requirements – Swiss screw technology can help medical device manufacturers meet the rigorous quality control required in their operations for regulatory purposes.  The superior accuracy and precision of the machines also help enhance how manufacturers comply with regulatory oversight, with documentation of tight tolerances for components and for machine parameters.

Medical device materials – More advanced medical devices require more advanced materials. Numerous types of metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and a range of alloys are used in everything from hip replacement components to other metal-containing implants.

Swiss screw machining is ideal for such high strength materials, providing the dimensional control, surface smoothness and other properties required. 

For more than 50 years, Sheldon Precision has been a leader in Swiss screw machine technology. As an independent manufacturer, we can produce the most challenging and complex Swiss screw machine components for your medical device applications according to the strictest process control rules.

For more information on how we can help with your medical device components, contact Sheldon Precision today  https://sheldonprecision.com/contact-sheldon-precision/ 

New Heights – Precision Swiss Screw Machined Components Meet High Standards of Aerospace Applications

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The aerospace industry has come a long way since the Wright brothers built their first aircraft with wood, fabric and wire. Today’s aerospace components require absolute precision with the tightest tolerances of any industry – and no room for error. 

Safety, of course, is the most important factor in the design and manufacture of aerospace parts, as the consequences of component failure could be devastating. Critical components in engines, turbines, landing gear and other systems must meet the challenging demands for the highest accuracy and reliability.

These high standards are among the many reasons more professionals in the aerospace industry have recognized the benefits of Swiss screw machining. For civil, commercial and military aircraft components, Swiss screw technology not only delivers necessary accuracy and reliability, it also provides a number of added benefits for aerospace manufacturers.

Accuracy and superior tolerances – Swiss screw technology provides better support for all stock material because the part moves while the tooling is stationary. The result is reduced risk of the support material moving for precision accuracy. Swiss style tools also use a process called guide bushing which enhances rigidity, thus producing higher tolerances.

Complex part geometries – With up to 6-axis machining capabilities, Swiss screw machines can produce complex, intricate parts faster and with extraordinary precision. In the 6-axis technology, an additional rotation around the Z axis results in faster cut times. Swiss screw machining offers positioning for component feature contouring that might otherwise have to be machined separately.

Enhanced productivity – As aerospace manufacturers are consistently on the cutting edge of production practices and technologies, Swiss screw machining keeps the pace. The technology is all about speed and accuracy as the machines can make complex parts using simultaneous operations – three or four tools can cut at the same time, for unmatched efficiency. The technology is a great advantage for aerospace manufacturing, offering repeatability and consistency in the production of end-use components as well as quick turnaround for prototypes.

The right materials – Swiss screw machining is ideal for high strength, structural aerospace components made with materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and a range of alloys.

For more than 50 years, Sheldon Precision has been a leader in Swiss screw machine technology. As an independent manufacturer, we can produce the most challenging and complex Swiss screw machine components for your aerospace applications according to the strictest process control rules.

For more information on how we can help with your aerospace components, contact Sheldon Precision today. 

On Target – Why Precision Swiss Screw Machined Components Make a Difference for Firearms & Defense Applications

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Whether it’s firearms manufacturing, aerospace engineering or any type of defense system component in between, precision in production can never be questioned. And we are not just talking about components for small arms and rifles such as firing pins, fuzing components, takedown pins, etc. Virtually every component on tanks, jets, rockets and weaponry is precision and reliability critical.

That’s why manufacturing and design engineers – not to mention purchasing managers and quality managers – should hone in on Swiss screw machine technology for the components they require. Accuracy, precision, quality and dependability are just a few of the hallmarks of Swiss screw machined parts. And that can make all the difference.

So what are some of the benefits of Swiss screw machine technology?

 To begin, we should understand that there are a number of different types of Swiss screw machines including CNC and cam driven technology. From the latest, state of the art 6-axis CNC milling machine – which enables an additional rotation around the Z axis for faster cut times – to tried and true Swiss screw lathes, the technology is precisely what firearms and defense applications require. For example:

One of the greatest benefits of Swiss screw machining is better support for all stock material. This is because the part moves while the tooling is stationary. The result is fewer defective parts because there is reduced risk of the support material moving.

Swiss style tools also offer superior tolerances. They use a process called guide bushing which enhances rigidity, thus producing higher tolerances.

Swiss style machines can handle very small parts and are often the most affordable option for such components in firearm and defense applications. The technology can produce long runs of small, complex components faster and more cost-effectively than tradition machines.

Swiss screw machines can make complex parts using simultaneous operations – three or four tool can cut at the same time, for unmatched efficiency.

For more than 50 years, Sheldon Precision has been a leader in Swiss screw machine technology. As an independent manufacturer, we can produce the most challenging and complex Swiss screw machine components for your firearm or defense applications…confidently and confidentially.

For more information on how we can help you increase quality, precision and output, contact Sheldon Precision today.

What Does 2021 Hold for Swiss Precision CNC Manufacturing?

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2020 was a strange and difficult year for individuals and business.  In precision manufacturing, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought on new challenges and resulted in advances in manufacturing. Workforce reductions and restriction have placed greater emphasis on computer-aided manufacturing and automation.  While some aspects of precision manufacturing such as planning, engineering and programming can carry on remotely, Swiss screw machine manufacturing must occur at the facilities like Sheldon Precision where the battery of Swiss screw machines (single spindle Swiss screw machines as well CNC Swiss screw machines like Escomatic) are located.

Skilled CNC machine operators  and CNC programmers are still in demand and as the economy in North American and around the world starts on the path to recovery. manufacturing will rise. Manufactures like Sheldon Precision are leveraging automation, machines, computer software and skilled operators and engineers to maintain quality and output.

What advances and trends are expected in 2021? Here are four CNC trends to watch for next year.

  1. Manufacturing as a service will continue to gain popularity 

Manufacturing as a service (MaaS) has found its way into the CNC industry over the last few years and its popularity will only increase moving forward.  MaaS uses networked resources to accomplish manufacturing tasks.  CNC machines are located in a central location and the cost of maintenance and operation is spread across subscribers.  MaaS gives companies added agility, productivity and cost savings through reduced labor expenses.  Since there has been a large fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, companies will start to embrace a new network of supply chains by using MaaS.  

2.   The IIOT will dominate emerging technology 

The industrial internet of things (IIoT) allows networked CNC machines to communicate with one another without needing a human operator behind the scenes.  IoT has recently become  part of the CNC machining industry.  By using IIoT, companies can make manufacturing quicker, safer and produce higher quality products.  The level of process automation in 2021 will rise greatly due to the manufacturing industry trying to find new ways to increase efficiency and reduce waste.  

3.   The Use of 6-axis Machining will expand rapidly 

The 6-axis CNC milling machine first came on to the scene in 2019.  For many years before this machine was released, the 3-axis machine was the machine everyone chose to use.  Recently, the 5-axis machine has become popular due to the seamless rotations around the X and Y axes.  Now, the 6-axis allows an additional rotation around the Z axis leading to faster cut times.  

4.  An increased focus on waste product reduction 

Raw materials have been a precious resources for manufacturing and in 2021 there will be increased attention to wise materials usage.  One new strategy is to create scale models of components using 3D printing methods rather than trial and error design on CNC equipment.  

Sheldon Precision continues to focus on quality and continuous improvement in our manufacturing resources and process. As new machines and technology in precision Swiss manufacturing emerge, Sheldon Precision will leverage these resources for customers in all industries including medical device component manufacturing, defense systems component manufacturing and many others.  Contact us today for your custom quote https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/

Article includes information adapted from: https://www.sciencetimes.com/articles/27410/20200922/predicting-2021-trends-in-the-cnc-machining-industry.htm

What is Swiss Type Machining?

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 Manufacturers in many industries are recognizing the benefits of Swiss style tools such as cutting costs and being more efficient. 

A number of industries are starting to now use Swiss type machining.  The durable goods industry has discovered that Swiss-lathes are highly beneficial and help improve output.   The electronics and medical industries are becoming more reliant on Swiss lathes and other Swiss machining tools. 

There are a lot of Swiss machining tools on the market, all which have major benefits.  The Swiss style lathe has a turning center that allows the part to move in the Z-axis, while the tool is stationary.  Conventional CNC lathes have the part stationary while the tool moves.  One of the major differences is the holding mechanism is not exposed to the bed or the tooling. 

Here are some of the other benefits of using a Swiss type machine:

1. Better Support for all Stock Material

This is the greatest benefit of Swiss style lathes.  It provides much better support than a traditional lathe. There should be fewer defective parts due to the reduced risk of the support material moving.  If the material is not adequately supported, an uneven cut will result.  This is especially a problem if you are trying to create a thread for any cylindrical object.  The threads will be useless if the depth of the cut is not uniform across the entire length of the threaded area.

2. Superior Tolerance

Swiss style lathes use the process called guide brushing which enhances rigidity and leads to a higher tolerance level. 

3. Ability to Work with Smaller Parts

Standard lathes are not ideal when working with small parts.  You would need to use more expensive machining processes such as making laser cuts.  Swiss style lathes are able to handle very small parts and are often the most affordable option to make cuts. 

The latest Swiss lathes are fully CNC operated and often have additional capacities such as milling and laser cutting.  Not only can both tuning and milling be performed on a Swiss machine but they can be performed simultaneously.  A Swiss lathe allows for the machining of intricate designs utilizing drilling, knurling and other unique processes on a single machine. 

Manufacturers with Swiss machines can produce long runs of small, complex parts faster and cheaper than traditional lathes.  This is an ideal addition to boost efficiency, productivity and capabilities in your business.  Swiss lathes are great for high production work, often with cycle times under a minute.  An Escomatic machine is an ideal Swiss type screw machine for turning accurate parts produced in high volume with diameters up to 5mm.  Parts machined on a Swiss lathe are often found in the electronics, medical device and defense industry.

Sheldon Precision prides themselves on producing highly engineered parts.  Contact us today to request a custom quote: https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/

Article adapted from: https://roboticsandautomationnews.com/2020/02/03/understanding-swiss-type-machining/29461/

Understanding CNC Swiss Screw Machines and Their Functions

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CNC Swiss type automatic lathes are now more powerful than ever.  They have fast cycle times and flexibility that have made them the standard and number one machine used in precision, high production applications.  Swiss machines were always preferred for long, slender turned parts, now they are widely used for small, complex parts – even pieces that have no turned surfaces. 

In a conventional lathe that has a fixed headstock, the workpiece is held in a collet and extends into the machine enclosure as a cantilever or can be supported on the end by the tailstock.  A distinguishing feature of the Swiss machine is that the headstock moves.  Bar stock passes through a chucking collet in the headstock, which clamps onto it.  The bar emerges into the tooling area through a guide bushing, which locates the bar radially during machining.  The headstock moves precisely back and forth in the z-direction, taking the bar with it. 

The turning tools, carried on gang slides contact the bar very close to the guide bushing, usually within 1 mm to 3 mm.  The motion of the bar provides the feed for the cutting action.  Gang slides carry holders for fixed single-point or other tools and may support live tooling.  Many machines have a secondary spindle, back working tool stations and one or more turrets that carry more tools. 

The guide bushing supports the workpiece to maintain precision throughout the machining of the workpiece.  A physical object subjected to a force will deflect.  On a conventional lathe, if the cutting forces cause too great of a deflection, the accuracy of the cut will suffer.  When you turn parts on a conventional lathe with a length-to-diameter ratio of greater than 3:1 you should use a tailstock to prevent excessive deflection.  For any ratio greater than 6:1, you would use a steady rest or follow rest to support the middle of the part.  If you hold a workpiece securely at one end and push sideways on the unsupported end, the workpiece bends a little bit.  If you are pushing with the same force on a longer workpiece it will bend more.  The deflection for a given force increases as the cube of distance from the support to the force is twice as long with eight times the deflection.  In a Swiss machine, the guide bushing supports the workpiece so close to the tools that the deflection due to cutting forces are close to zero.  You are able to make heavy cuts and still maintain precise dimensions on the part.

Some advantages of CNC Swiss Machines come from both the guide bushing and the geometry and mechanics in the tool zone

  • – Depending on the machine, there may be room for 20 tools or more in the tool zone
  • – Chip-to-chip time from one tool to the next cab be one second or less
  • – A single heavy cut often removes all the necessary material
  • – Surface finish can be excellent, often eliminates the need for grinding
  • – Machines with sub-spindles allows working on the back side of the part
  • – A Swiss machine can make complex parts using simultaneous operations, three or four tools can cut at the same time
  • – Most secondary operations are eliminated, since a Swiss machine can mill, drill, ream, saw and do other operations within the machine
  • – The Swiss machine can run for hours unattended after the machine is set up and the bar stock is placed in the bar loader

Medical devices are often manufactured on Swiss machines.  The United States is the world’s largest medical device market and these devices help improve surgical outcomes with advanced technologies to help make a difference in people’s lives.  Medical components are highly complex pieces that are critical to the safe operation of the device.  Medical devices include parts such as surgical needles, screws and lock plates.  Medical component specialist are experts in these high precision machine parts and can identify when tighter that necessary tolerances have been specified for these parts.

If you are running small, complex parts on your CNC lathes you might be better off using a Swiss Machine so that the lathe can be saved for larger parts.  Many new Swiss machines already run Muti-function fixed head lathes that mill and drill in addition to turning.  The controls on Swiss machines are familiar to most users and offline programming software helps users generate programs tailored to Swiss machines.  By using a Swiss machine in your operations, you can help reduce cycle times and eliminate secondaries for parts on the smaller end.  If you are looking into using Swiss machines to manufacture one of your products contact us today at https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/

Article adapted from: https://todaysmachiningworld.com/magazine/how-it-works-why-swiss/

What is an Escomatic Machine?

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In the 1940’s, Willy Rosetti, a Swiss parts maker, had a problem with a burr on a watch part he was trying to produce.  Conventional radial-fed cut-off tools that he was using generated the burr that needed to be filed off.  Willy came up with a new turning concept that we now know as Esco, that turned into the Escomatic machine tool line. 

An escomatic machine is a Swiss screw machine with a tool head that rotates around the material.  Unlike conventional lathes, the material (coil stock or bar) in escomatic lathes does not rotate.  The Esco concept turns turning 180 degrees.  The cutting tools are mounted onto the tool head which rotates around the material to produce components and remove the metal.  As the head spins, two – four cutters feed into the stationary material creating the designed part. 

The machine’s cutters are operated by cams or CNC servomotors.  Maximum head rotational speeds run from 8,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm depending on the machine model.  The toolholders pivot into the stock through an arc rather than a straight radical feed motion to help overcome the centrifugal force generated at these high speeds.  The cutters are set very close to the stock and also reduces non-cutting time. 

A rotating straightener is usually found on an Esco machine.  For material up to 6 millimeters in diameter, it is necessary to straighten the incoming coil before it is fed into the rollers and guide bushing.  It revolves around the stock, cambering and straightening the wire by a using a combination of three movements applied to the stock.  After machining is complete, a counter collet supports the machined parts to be cut off.  Supporting the machined part during this step produces a flat clean end, eliminating the pip (unwanted material created by conventional cut-off processes). 

Features and benefits of escomatic production:

  • – Machines simple to moderately complex parts and parts with very high production
  • – The machine has fast cycles and short machining times with high precision
  • – Machines handle material from .012” up to .250” diameter to save material cost
  • – There are fewer machine stops, by using material from coil and reduces labor costs
  • – 24 hour production
  • – Low maintenance costs

At Sheldon Precision, we utilize a combination of of CNC and cam driven Swiss Screw machines including Escomatic Machines.  Click here to request a custom quote https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/

Article adapted from: https://www.productionmachining.com/articles/a-different-way-to-turn

What Green Manufacturing Can Expect From CNC Machining in the Future

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Green businesses are looking for more sustainable manufacturing solutions.  There are a number of ways that manufacturing can be changed to produce a lower carbon footprint including the switch to CNC machining.  One of the biggest reason that CNC machining is greener is because it can be done electronically.  Customers can send electronic files to the factories so there will be no travel to the site therefore, reducing carbon emissions from driving. 

CNC Machining Is the Key to Sustainability in 2020

Modern manufacturing and production is changing rapidly.  The growth of industries using the CNC machine is aiding this change.  The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine was first introduced in the 1940s and changed the manufacturing game to what we see today.  CNC Machines make it possible to scale any given manufacturing process without losing any quality or accuracy during production.  As computers have become more mainstream, CNC machining has become essential in the manufacturing industry. 

One of the benefits of using a CNC machine is improved efficiency.  One of the biggest reasons CNC machining lowers emissions is by reducing transportation, while reducing material waste and machining time. 

CNC machines rely on Computer-Aided Design (CAD) files to create prototype parts.  Every part of the process is controlled by a computer and are technical and highly automated products. Old industrial equipment such as routers, drills and lathes are driven by computer programs and achieve a precise level of control.  This simplifies the whole manufacturing process and is widely used in many different industries. 

Over the past few years there have been a number of changes with CNC products.  CNC machining is becoming more affordable.  The barrier of entry into the CNC machining industry is lower than ever.  Manufacturing companies now offer a diverse range of services including prototype manufacturing and prototype machining. 

Many companies have started to adapt to use The Internet of Things, a system of interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines that has the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human to human or human to computer interaction.  This encourages collaboration which leads to the development of a higher quality product.  Machines are also now connected to computers or mobile devices.  CAD files can be transmitted electronically and you can now send designs for injection molding services and rapid machining.  Automation can help create new jobs in this industry for technicians and programmers.   

As technology has evolved, the manufacturing process of these machines have too.  CNC machines have become smaller and more compact and now companies have decided tp use smaller portable devices rather than big, immobile machines.  As the demand for CNC machinery made products increases, so does the need for CNC machines to operate at optimum levels.  Coders and developers will need to simplify the user interface of the machinery to make them more user friendly. 

Companies that offer CNC services are continuously working on tightening their tolerances and quality control systems.  Orders are being produced of any quantity, by using a wide range of materials at affordable prices while still remain the highest quality possible. 

At Sheldon Precision we have learned to adapt and follow current trends, as technology is constantly changing and evolving.  Contact us today for a custom quote https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/

Article Adapted from: https://blueandgreentomorrow.com/features/what-green-businesses-can-expect-from-cnc-machining-in-future/

How Precision Machining Has Become Beneficial in Manufacturing Medical Devices

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Precision machining is used in many industries including electronics, aerospace and medical.  Many medical parts and devices are manufactured by using CNC machines.  The medical device industry is made up of different medical parts including implants for reconstructing spines and for hip and knee replacements.  

You count on your medical parts to be manufactured with accuracy and precision and ultimately safe for use in your body.  Precision machining helps create the exact dimensions and sizes for the surgical tools that will be used to administer these medical parts.   Machining is also used to create the complex parts for lasers and robotics now used in surgeries.  Using these machines will create more innovations that will lead to future medical advances.  These tools require extremely small and precise parts that only CNC machining tools can make.  

These tools are used for the finest surgeries including on your heart or brain so they should be accurate, reliable and safe while they are being produced.  The materials for use in the medical world need to meet strict standards for durability, safety and non-reactiveness with the human body and the ability to be sterilized.  Precision machining allows these materials to be skillfully transformed into the detailed shapes and sizes needed for specific medical applications and devices.  Many of these pieces are permanently implanted into people and need to be smooth and tight to eliminate any reactions in your body such as being rigid and scratching.   CNC precision machines are ideal for making these parts ensuring that every part is identical and fits together for optimum function.  

Insulin pumps, heart monitors and defibrillators are medical implants that save lives every day.  As medical parts have evolved and machines have advanced, over time medical designs have been become smaller and more precise.  This includes the casing and cables for these parts.  The implants can now be placed inside the body, allowing those people who need these implants to be able to live a normal life.   

Precision machining allows certain medical devices to be custom designed for a more personalized fit.  This is extremely important for prosthetics such as artificial limbs, knees and implants like defibrillators which needs to fit each person’s needs.  Precision machining is used to create and design custom parts along with being cost effective.  Designs are inputted to the computer controls and parts can be quickly and accurately made for small or larger runs.  

Precision machining has contributed so much to advance in the medical industry and will continue to evolve and be an important part of this industry moving forward.  The medical industry counts on Sheldon Precision for our expertise, quality and attention to detail. Contact us today for a custom quote at https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/

Industries Using Precision CNC Machinery

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Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining creates numerous detailed parts required in dozens of industries.  Many industries require custom-created parts for specific uses rather than mass production.  The ability to accurately design and create pieces with a computer is the key factor many companies are looking for.  Industries including the medical field, transportation, the military and more rely on machining parts.  Since the technology that makes up computers and machines advances daily, this allows for more intricate and customized designs to be achieved.  

Precision is what is needed in the medical, aerospace, electronics and other industries.  If any of these parts are not manufactured with a high degree of precision and held to tight tolerances, serious product defects could result 

Machining uses many different devices such as milling, Swiss screw machining and machine turning.  The machine operators choose the best method to use based on the required precision of the product and content used. 

  • Machine turning – like a lathe, CNC milling machines turn the material but a computer controls the entire process.  This makes mass production of parts possible 
  • Swiss Screw machining – requires an expert for set up and needs extra time but produces the most precise parts within 0.005 inches 
  • Machine milling – turns the tools around the piece and the mills can use numerous tools for highly detailed parts.  

By using the right machine and material for the job, CNC machinists can serve in a wide range of industries.  Each of these industries have their own needs which means that all of the different options that can be used in CNC machining will be not necessary for every business.  

Medical Industry 

The medical industry relies on customized products to fit the many needs of their patients.  Many devices used in the medical field are disposable to protect patients from infectious disease.  Businesses in this field require precision and high volume parts to fulfill the needs of their facilities.  Sometimes the companies may request prototypes of the product before requesting a full run especially if they are testing out new ideas.  CNC machines adapt well in the medical field due to the variety of materials and devices available.  Here are some of the parts that can be created by CNC machining: 

  • Implants 
  • Orthotic devices and screws
  • Electronic enclosures for monitoring devices 
  • Research equipment 
  • Shielded enclosures 
  • MRI Machines 
  • Electrical parts 
  • Customized packaging to maintain sterility 
  • FDA approved production 
  • Pieces made from high temperature plastics 
  • Medical instruments 

These machines include the rapid creation of customized parts and manufacturing done in an environment approved by the FDA.  When making individual designs, the computer allows the engineers to see the piece in 3D before machining it.  This ensures every part has the exact dimensions required.  These parts must have the smallest possible margin of error to avoid medical misdiagnoses and part malfunctioning.  Our ability to manufacture to tight tolerance with consistency coupled with superior quality control has set Sheldon Precision apart from competition within the medical industry.  

Aerospace Industry

High speeds, fast air currents and extreme pressure are three conditions devices in the aerospace industry encounter on a daily basis.  To avoid damage to the aircraft, engineers muse precisely construct every component.  CNC machining for the aerospace and aviation industries must meet high precision requirements which often reach as tight as 0.0004 inches.  Machinists must create these tolerances with extra durable materials such as titanium, aluminum, nickel, alloys and plastics.  The materials used will depend on the parts created and properties desired from that component.  Parts made for the aerospace and aviation industry include many different components of aircraft and the devices that service them including: 

  • Manifolds 
  • Bushings
  • Airfoils 
  • Landing gear parts 
  • Electrical connectors 
  • Antennae 
  • Radio frequency suppression materials 

Without the ability to design and create multiple precisely made parts, the air and space industry may not have reached the technological level that it is at today.  CNC machining is ideal for manufacturing prototype parts.  By seeing the 3D image on a computer, the engineer can make quick changes to the design based on testing.  Once the design has been finalized, the CNC machining process for one or multiple parts can begin.  Similar to the military and defense industry, the aerospace industry has demanding standards.  Sheldon Precision utilizes modern CNC machining to produce accurate and reliable components use in many aerospace applications.  State of the art machinery and skilled operators turn our precise components in a variety of materials including aluminum and titanium. 

Military and Defense Industry

The military industry is similar to the petrochemical industry where they use parts that need to be rugged and durable for every environment and climate.  The military has strict regulations set forth by the government and the products produced need to adhere to these regulations.  The parts created for the military can be similar to those produced in the aviation, transportation, electronic, marine and medical industries.  Though the parts may be similar, they don’t have the needs of the defense sector to keep up with the latest technology and having parts that reliable in the most out of reach locations.  These parts can include: 

  • Communications components 
  • Electronics 
  • Transportation components 
  • Plane parts 

Due to the strict regulations and security measures, the exact products and procedures used for creating military equipment require secrecy.  CNC machining can create quick upgrades, long lasting parts, creation of parts from robust materials and mass output of approved parts that require tight tolerances.  If CNC machines are being used, regular testing and upgrades of the devices must be done to allow the technology to be the most up to date to help ensure the best protection for our country.  Accuracy, precision quality and dependability are indications of the components Sheldon Precision manufactures for the military and defense industry. 

Electronics Industry

CNC machining can be used to create both large and small parts such as the sizes needed in the electronics industry.  Some of these elements will require laser precision to produce the parts with fine accuracy up to 10 micrometers that may be required.  In addition to electronics and insulators commonly found in electrical devices, the electronics industry may also need communications components.  These parts can protect communications devices from electronic interference or create electrical connections between elements such as: 

  • Heat sinks
  • Amplifier housings 
  • Radio frequency interference shielding 
  • Electrical insulation 

The smaller the parts needed, the tighter the tolerances.  There is little room for error in the micro machining process.  By using a CNC machine, it increases the accuracy levels humans would not be able to achieve.  The electronics industry greatly benefits from this precise accuracy for components, housings and other parts.  Electronic, telecommunications and wireless products require precise components and smaller sizes.  Sheldon Precision has the experience and capability to manufacture a wide variety of components to any size and tolerance.

CNC machining can be used in a wide variety of industries and are able to create parts out of multiple types of materials.  If you are looking to use CNC machining for your products, contact us today for a custom quote at https://sheldonprecision.com/request-a-quote/