cheap places to machine parts? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: engineheat
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2021, 04:35:54 am
content: Does anyone some cheap places that can machine parts out of aluminum or delrin? I got CAD drawings of some simple and small parts that I want made for a prototype. Anyone know expensive it would be? Rough ballpark.Thanks

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2021, 04:48:07 am
content: I only know of this servicehttps://www.xometry.com/(not affiliated, never used them to actually order anything).They have a cost estimate tool based on the STEP and other file formats. I tried to plug in a few different files, prices ranged from acceptable to unrealistically expensive for no apparent reason. So there is probably some tuning that can be done for their process.

author: radar_macgyver
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2021, 04:58:46 am
content: If they're flat and less than 10 mm thick, consider Front Panel Express. You need to use their CAD tool to re-enter your design, but their prices are reasonable and their CAD program gives you an exact quote instantly, no human in the loop.Then there's emachineshop, which still requires you to use their CAD tool, and can be quite expensive for small runs.Protocase will machine small parts, I've only used their sheet metal service. Requires talking to a human for a quote.For "2.5D" parts, cut from flat stock without any Z milling, consider Ponoko, OSHCUT or one of the other laser or waterjet cutting services.

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2021, 06:06:20 pm
content: Cost can vary considerably with the required geometry and precision. Something that looks simple may end up costing more because of difficulties in holding it for machining (especially if the part is small or oddly shaped) or because it has to be machined in multiple setups (or on a more expensive 4/5 axis machine, which may be more cost effective for a job shop since it can save on the number of setups required).If the parts are 2D or can be made from a folded 2D shape, then laser/waterjet is going to be cheaper than machining, and some places like OSH Cut will do CNC bending on lasercut parts for what I think is a reasonable cost (haven't used them myself).If you only need a couple of small parts, 3D printing may be more cost effective than machining, since there's not really any setup and no workholding, and the cost is determined by size rather than complexity. You may have to do some post-processing depending on the required tolerances and finishes, but this may be as simple as just reaming some holes with a drill and/or some sanding depending on the part. I think shapeways will give you an instant quote from a solid model, so worth just seeing what it would cost.If you do job it out for machining, beware of what your important tolerances are. It's very easy to over-specify a part with tighter tolerances than you actually need, which will drive the cost up unnecessarily.It may also be worth looking around for a local shop, a small place that can fit your job in around other work may be able to give you a better price than one of the bigger internet places, especially if you aren't too picky.Finally, there are some places likehttps://100kgarages.com/where you may be able to connect with someone who has the equipment to do what you need. I've never used that either so can't vouch for it, but if it's a hobbyist who's just looking to cover some project costs the prices may be better there. Again, it'll be easier to get a good price if you're not too picky or in a hurry.