CNC Machining
Precision CNC Machining Services for High-Performance Parts
FERPA Precision Machine Inc. provides precision CNC machining services for components that require tight dimensional control, repeatability, and consistent quality. We manufacture prototypes, first articles, and production parts using multi-axis turning centers, and 3-axis and 4-axis machining centers.
Our capabilities support parts with demanding features such as close-tolerance diameters, complex profiles, cross-holes, lock-wire holes, milled flats, threads, sealing surfaces, and critical geometric relationships. By matching each component with the appropriate equipment and machining strategy, we help reduce setups, maintain accuracy, and improve production efficiency.
FERPA serves customers in the aerospace, defense, energy, and industrial markets. We machine specialty metals and high-performance engineering plastics for components used in demanding operating environments.
Materials We Machine
FERPA machines a broad range of engineering plastics and specialty metal alloys for demanding applications. We have experience working with:
Engineering Plastics including:
- PEEK (unfilled, glass-filled, and carbon-filled)
- PTFE (unfilled, glass-filled, and carbon-filled)
- Acetal and Delrin®
- PCTFE
- Torlon® (PAI)
- UHMW and HDPE
- Vespel®-type polyimides
- Nylon 6 and Nylon 11
Metals and Specialty Alloys including:
- Aluminum alloys
- Stainless steels (15-5PH, 17-4PH, 304, 316, Nitronic® 60, and A286)
- Inconel® 625
- MP35N
- Aluminum Nickel Bronze (C63020)
- Copper Nickel Tin (C72900)
Specialty alloys and high-performance plastics can present challenges related to heat, dimensional stability, tool wear, burr control, and surface finish. Our machining experience helps us select appropriate tooling, workholding, cutting parameters, and inspection methods for each application.
Precision Tolerances & Sizes We Support
Our CNC machining processes support components with demanding dimensional and geometric requirements, including:
- Critical-feature tolerances approaching ±0.0002 inch
- Close-tolerance diameters and bores
- Concentricity, runout, and positional requirements
- Precision sealing and mating surfaces
- Fine surface finishes
- Complex turned and milled features
- Features produced through multiple coordinated axes
- Tight relationships between diameters, faces, holes, and milled details
Surface finishes of approximately 8–16 microinches may be achievable on suitable features. Final tolerance and finish capabilities depend on the material, feature geometry, part size, wall thickness, manufacturing process, and inspection requirements.
FERPA specializes in small- to medium-sized precision components. As a practical rule of thumb, if a part fits inside a shoebox, it is generally within our machining sweet spot.
For turned components, we typically machine parts under five inches in diameter.
Our milling capabilities accommodate plates and other components up to approximately 30 inches long, although most of the parts we produce are under 14 inches in length.
Maximum part and raw-stock sizes depend on material density, geometry, workholding, and safe material-handling requirements. We review each project individually to determine the most effective machining approach.
Selecting the Right CNC Machining Process
Every component presents a different combination of geometry, material, tolerance, quantity, and delivery requirements. Before selecting a manufacturing process, our team reviews:
- Part geometry and critical features
- Material specification
- Dimensional and geometric tolerances
- Surface-finish requirements
- Lot size and annual usage
- Inspection and documentation requirements
- Target lead time
Based on these requirements, we select the equipment, workholding, tooling, and machining sequence best suited to the part. Available processes include:
- CNC turning
- Multi-axis turning
- CNC milling, including 3-axis and 4-axis machining
Our objective is to deliver the required performance while minimizing setups, handling, production time, and overall manufacturing cost while maintaining consistency between critical features.
From Prototypes to Repeat Production Support
FERPA partners with you and supports your projects throughout every stage of the manufacturing lifecycle.
Our CNC machining production capabilities include:
- Prototype machining
- First article production
- Low-volume production
- Mid-volume production
- Repeat production programs
Typical order quantities range from approximately 10 to 500 pieces. Depending on the part, material, and production strategy, we can also support quantities of several thousand pieces.
Our range of CNC equipment allows us to support development work without losing sight of the process control and repeatability required for ongoing production.
Partner with FERPA for Precision CNC Machining
When quality, repeatability, and precision matter, FERPA delivers CNC machining options tailored to your exact requirements. From prototypes through repeat production, our experienced team works closely with you to manufacture high-performance components that meet your demanding specifications while optimizing cost, efficiency, and lead times. Get a custom quote today to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
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What information is needed for a CNC machining quote?
To provide an accurate CNC machining services quote, we typically require:
- A part drawing and, when available, a 3D CAD model
- Material specification
- Required quantities
- Inspection, certification, and documentation requirements
- Requested delivery date
Providing complete technical and commercial information helps us select the appropriate manufacturing process and prepare an accurate quotation.
What types of parts can FERPA manufacture?
FERPA manufactures precision turned and milled components. Our equipment supports parts ranging from small cylindrical components to larger workpieces with complex profiles, cross-holes, lock-wire holes, milled features, threads, sealing surfaces, and closely controlled geometric relationships.
The most appropriate process depends on the component’s geometry, material, tolerances, and production quantity.
What inspection capabilities does FERPA offer?
FERPA uses calibrated inspection equipment and documented quality processes to verify dimensional requirements, geometric tolerances, surface finishes, and first article inspection requirements. Inspection methods and reporting are selected according to the part’s complexity and customer requirements.
FERPA Precision Machine is proudly ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified.
Can FERPA help reduce my manufacturing costs?
Yes. FERPA can provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback identifying features, tolerances, materials, or production requirements that may affect machining time, process stability, or cost. This feedback is advisory; FERPA does not assume design authority or change customer requirements without written approval.
When a proposed change affects the drawing or another controlled requirement, the customer may issue a revised drawing, or FERPA may submit a Supplier Deviation Request (SDR) for review and disposition. No change is incorporated into production until it has been properly documented and approved.