How to Choose the Right Machining Company for the Aerospace Industry

Almost every sector in the economy uses fabricated metals. The rise in demand for these products has led to the growth of the fabrication industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that this growth will add over 12,000 jobs over the next decade.

While the industry is expected to grow, selecting the right metal for your project can be challenging. The amount of different options to consider doesn’t help the situation, either. So, where do you start?

Thin Metal Sales offer various metals including stainless steel, thin aluminum strips, copper and brass metals. These metals play a vital role in aerospace engineering.

When selecting the ideal metal, you have to be cautious. Ensure you understand the respective properties of these metals. For instance, thin aluminum strips have a low density which makes it ideal for lightweight applications. Further, it increases in strength when exposed to low temperatures. Combining aluminum with other elements like copper, magnesium, and silicon forms stronger combined metals.

When using these metals for aerospace engineering applications, you should understand the machining of the parts. Better yet, you need a machining company that produces instrumental aerospace components. Here are the basic tips to consider when selecting a machining company.

1. Its Technological Capability

High precision aerospace components play a vital role in the operation of an aircraft. Most of these components are “life-critical,” which is why they require precise specifications. In the entire process, quality is prioritized as these parts are going to different areas including the landing gear and jet engines. Therefore, there is no room for mistakes.

Machining high-quality components require the use of state-of-the-art equipment. Be sure to check the technology used to avoid engaging under-equipped machining experts. If possible, the machining expert should have the following:

• High-quality machines capable of processing large volumes of metal faster and seamlessly.
• Multi-tasking capabilities that facilitate multiple machining processes in a single operation. It helps improve reliability in the production of aerospace parts.

Engaging a machining company with the required in-house technology reduces the lead time and improves the supply chain to provide consistent and quality parts.

2. High Quality and Precision

Making a mistake is impermissible in the production of aerospace parts. Quality and precision are crucial considerations that require great attention. But how will you know that the machinist can deliver thin aluminum strips, and other components consistently?

• Look for a firm with great experience and reputation in the manufacture of aerospace components or parts.
• The extent and length of the firm’s supply chain is also a consideration. Engage a company that has a reliable source of raw materials. This ensures you get your deliveries on time.

3. Check the Internal Operational Excellence

The internal operations of your ideal machining partner affect all the output operations. Such include timely delivery of your thin aluminum strips.

Other than the equipment in use, workforce productivity plays a major role in ensuring your needs and wants are met. Without these people, the equipment you get cannot offer any competitive edge.

4. Reliability and Cost Effectiveness

As a manufacturer, you want to get all the necessary parts on time. Any delay on a single component slows down the production process. Such encounters make it impossible for buyers to meet their customer’s requirements.

Dealing with correctly machined parts accelerates the speed of production by saving inspection time and reducing buyer issues. However, to enjoy such benefits, you must work with the right machining company.