How does the on-demand manufacturing process work?

Mechkonnect’s simplified process includes the submission of design files, selection of material and specifications, production and delivery.

What is on-demand manufacturing?

A service allowing the manufacturing of custom-designed products in small quantities tailored to specific requirements is called as On-Demand Manufacturing. This service is cost-effective as a large investment in equipment and inventory is not necessary.

How do I get started?

To get started, simply sign up for an account on our website, upload your design files, customize your product specifications, and follow the prompts to place your order. If you have any questions, our customer support team is here to assist you.

How long do manufacturing and shipping take?

Manufacturing and shipping times vary based on the complexity of your design, the quantity ordered, and the location of our manufacturing partners. You’ll receive an estimated timeframe during the ordering process.

Can I get a prototype before placing a larger order?

Yes. Many of our manufacturing partners offer prototyping services, allowing you to test and refine your design before committing to a larger production run.

What types of products can I manufacture on demand?

We manufacture a wide range of products, including but not limited to prototypes, custom parts, apparel, accessories, home decor, and more. Feel free to reach out if you have a specific product in mind.

Is my intellectual property protected?

We take intellectual property seriously. Our platform may offer options for secure file sharing and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with manufacturing partners to help protect your designs.

Do you offer international shipping?

Yes, we offer international shipping to many countries. The cost of shipping may vary as per location and time.

Can I cancel an order?

Order cancellation policies vary among manufacturing partners. Typically, if production hasn’t started, you might be able to cancel with a nominal fee. It’s advisable to review the cancellation policy before placing an order.

What are the advantages of casting?

Casting allows for complex shapes, and precision details, and is suitable for both small and large production runs. It can be cost-effective for certain designs.

What is forging, and how does it differ from casting?

Forging involves shaping metal through the application of force using hammers or presses. It creates parts with improved strength and structural integrity compared to cast parts.

Is fabrication ideal for producing custom designs?

Yes, fabrication is well-suited for producing custom-designed products, allowing for flexibility in shape, size, and functionality.

Is 3D printing suitable for large-scale production?

While 3D printing is excellent for prototyping and small-batch production, traditional manufacturing methods may be more efficient for larger quantities.

What types of materials can be used for moulding?

Various materials can be used, including plastics, rubber, and even metals in certain moulding processes.

A Guide to CNC Milling vs. CNC Turning for On-Demand Production

23 / 100

A Guide to CNC Milling vs. CNC Turning for On-Demand Production

In on-demand manufacturing, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining plays a crucial role in producing high-quality parts quickly and efficiently. Two popular CNC processes are milling and turning, each with its unique strengths and applications.

In this guide, we will delve into the differences between CNC milling and CNC turning, exploring their processes, advantages, and ideal use cases for on-demand production.

Understanding CNC Milling

CNC milling is a machining process that uses rotating cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece. The milling machine moves the tool in three dimensions, creating complex shapes and designs. Milling can be performed on various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.

Understanding CNC Turning

CNC turning, also known as lathe machining, uses a single-point cutting tool to remove material from a rotating workpiece. The turning process creates symmetrical, rounded, or cylindrical parts, ideal for producing shafts, pipes, and other rounded components.

Main Distinctions Between CNC Milling and CNC Turning

Factors	CNC Milling	CNC Turning
Machine Configuration	Milling machines have a stationary workpiece and a moving tool	Turning machines have a rotating workpiece and a stationary tool.
Tooling	Milling uses rotating cutting tools	Turning uses single-point cutting tools.
Material Removal	Milling removes material in three dimensions	turning removes material in a single plane.
Part Complexity	Milling can produce complex shapes and designs	turning is ideal for symmetrical, rounded parts.

Advantages of CNC Milling

1. Complexity: Milling can produce intricate designs and shapes.
Material Versatility: Milling can work with various materials.
Precision: Milling achieves high precision and accuracy.

Precision: Milling achieves high precision and accuracy.

Advantages of CNC Turning

Speed: Turning is generally faster than milling for symmetrical parts.
Efficiency: Turning requires less tooling and setup time.
Cost-Effective: Turning is often more cost effective for large quantities of simple parts.

Choosing Between CNC Milling and CNC Turning for On-Demand Production

For intricate and complex shapes, the milling process is an excellent choice. On the other hand, turning is best suited for producing symmetrical parts with relative ease. When working with a variety of materials, milling offers the flexibility to handle diverse materials. Turning, on the other hand, is particularly well-suited for working with metals and plastics. For large quantities of parts, turning is a more efficient option, whereas milling is preferable for manufacturing small batches or prototypes. Considering lead time, milling is known for its ability to deliver shorter lead times, while turning is recognized for its faster overall production.

On-Demand Manufacturing Considerations

When considering on-demand manufacturing, it’s essential to carefully assess the following aspects:

Flexibility: CNC milling presents a superior level of adaptability, allowing for seamless design modifications and intricate detailing. This makes it an ideal choice for projects that demand frequent design changes or intricate component designs.
Scalability: CNC turning is particularly well-suited for large-scale production, providing the efficiency and precision required for high-volume manufacturing projects.
Cost: In scenarios involving small batch production or the creation of complex parts, CNC milling may prove to be more cost-effective due to its ability to efficiently handle intricate designs and smaller production runs.

In conclusion, CNC milling and CNC turning are both essential processes in on-demand manufacturing, each with its unique strengths and applications. Understanding the differences between these processes enables manufacturers to choose the best approach for their specific needs, ensuring efficient and effective production. By considering part design, material, quantity, and lead time, manufacturers can optimize their CNC machining processes for on-demand production success.

Want to start a CNC Milling or CNC Turning Project? Get in touch with us today!