CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a subtractive manufacturing process that produces parts by cutting material away from a solid block using computer-controlled machines. It’s ideal for producing accurate, functional parts in a wide range of materials.

Numerous types of metal and plastic material can be machined using CNC machining. We keep a stock of commonly used materials in-house, including:

• Aluminium alloy 6082
• Stainless steel, AISI grade 304
• Stainless steel, AISI grade 316
• Acetal (Delrin)
• Acrylic (PMMA)

Other materials are available quickly from our suppliers including a large array of different engineering plastics. If you’re unsure which material is best, our team can advise based on performance, finish and function.

CNC machining is well-suited to parts that need high accuracy, excellent surface finishes or strength in production-grade materials. 3D printing is often used for complex geometries and rapid turnaround, while CNC machining delivers precision parts with robust mechanical properties.

Our general quoted tolerance is ±0.1mm. In reality, CNC machining is usually accurate to much less than ±0.1mm, and critical dimensions can be held to tight tolerances depending on the material and geometry. We always check your drawings and requirements before machining.

For our low volume production work and 3-day production work, we typically use our 5-axis VMCs. These machines are configured to handle two main billet sizes: 150mm x 100mm x 90mm and 150mm x 50mm x 40mm. However, we can accommodate smaller parts with a range of billet sizes available.

We also have a wide array of 3-axis machines which can produce parts up to approximately 450 x 350 x 150 mm, subject to geometry. See our Plant List for full details.

If in doubt, it’s best to speak to us about your specific needs.

We typically offer flexible production speeds for CNC parts, depending on part complexity and quantity, as well as our capacity at the time. Timescales will be confirmed as part of the quotation / ordering process.

While we do not offer in-house plating and anodising services, we do have a sub-contractor that we work closely with to ensure you receive the finish you are looking for. Common requests are black, clear and hard anodising, surtec 650 and nickel plating. Other finishes are available on request just contact us on 01763 249760 for more information.

Vapour honing is a type of finishing that can be applied to parts after the machining process to both clean and provide a more uniform surface finish. It is a technology that involves blasting the part with a mix of abrasive material and pressurised water. It is effectively a ‘wet’ version of dry blasting however the water softens the blow of the material and washes dirt and debris away.

We vapour hone CNC machined parts as standard unless instructed not to, or it is not suitable for your part.

Yes, we can machine free issue material. This is dependent on part geometry and material, but please contact us to discuss your needs.

Browse our finishing options.

Yes. Our CNC expertise underpins not only the production of standalone parts, but also the manufacture of mould tooling for our injection moulding service. This gives us complete control over tool accuracy, timescales and modifications.

We provide CNC machining for clients in medical, aerospace, automotive, consumer products and more — for both prototypes and production-quality parts.