CNC Machining Center
CNC Technology
Production-Ready

CNC Machining(CNC)Precision Subtractive Manufacturing

Forge Labs operates 3-axis and 5-axis machining centers alongside turning, inspection, and finishing services to deliver production-ready CNC parts. From rapid prototypes to validated production runs, we hold tight tolerances and deliver consistent surface finishes in metals and engineering plastics. CNC machining is ideal for high-precision parts where dimensional accuracy and surface finish are critical.

Build Volume
1000 x 600 x 500 mm
Tolerance
+/- 0.025 mm typical
Layer Height
N/A (subtractive machining)
Machinery
3-Axis CNC Mills
Technology Overview

Precision Subtractive Manufacturing

Precision CNC machining delivers exceptional tolerances and surface finish quality using advanced 3-axis and 5-axis capabilities. Perfect for functional prototypes and production parts requiring tight dimensional control.

Why manufacture with CNC

Advanced manufacturing capabilities enable complex geometries, functional prototypes, and end-use production parts that would be impossible or cost-prohibitive with traditional manufacturing methods. From functional prototypes to end-use production parts, this technology delivers exceptional performance across demanding industries.

CNC Machining machining example showing precision subtractive manufacturing quality

Advanced Applications

Advanced Manufacturing Components

The CNC manufacturing process delivers precision parts through controlled layer-by-layer construction, ensuring consistent quality and mechanical properties.

Production applications

Advanced Manufacturing Solutions

The CNC manufacturing process delivers precision parts through controlled layer-by-layer construction, ensuring consistent quality and mechanical properties.

Key advantages

Complex geometries: Intricate internal channels, overhangs, and assemblies impossible with traditional manufacturing.

Functional prototypes: Test mechanical properties and fit before investing in production tooling.

Custom tooling: Jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids tailored to specific production requirements.

End-use parts: Production components for aerospace, medical, automotive, and industrial applications.

CNC automotive components
CNC medical devices
CNC aerospace components
CNC complex geometries
Manufacturing Process

The CNC Machining manufacturing process

Every CNC project moves through DFM review, toolpath programming, precision fixturing, machining, finishing, and final inspection. The result is production-grade hardware that is ready for integration immediately on arrival. Multi-axis setups reduce secondary operations and protect critical datums, while materials remain fully traceable for inspection requirements.

Programming and DFM Review

Step 1 of 4

Programming and DFM Review

Engineering team reviews CAD files, optimizes toolpaths, and develops fixture strategy to balance precision and efficiency.

File Formats
STEP, IGES, Parasolid, Native CAD
Review Time
Same day to 24 hours
DFM Output
Toolpath strategy and fixture plan
Quality Plan
Inspection checkpoints defined
Build Volume

Large machining envelopes accommodate oversized parts or multi-setup fixtures with precision up to 1000 x 600 x 500 mm.

Precision (mm)

High-precision subtractive machining for tight-tolerance mechanical components to +/- 0.025 mm typical.

Speed

Cycle time optimized to geometry, toolpaths, and material selection using Cycle times optimized per geometry and material.

Machines

Forge Labs manufactures CNC parts using 3-Axis and 5-Axis CNC Mills / CNC Turning Centers.

Material Library

Precision CNC Materials

Select from certified metals and engineering plastics optimized for subtractive manufacturing. Our CNC material library spans aerospace aluminum, stainless steels, and advanced polymers with documented process controls.

Aluminum 6061-T6 Part
Metal

Aluminum 6061-T6

Lightweight Structural Alloy for CNC Machining

Aluminum 6061-T6 is an all-purpose alloy favored for CNC machining when weight, performance, and cost must be balanced. It machines cleanly, accepts a wide range of coatings, and maintains tight tolerances for production assemblies.

Tensile Strength

310 MPa

Flexural Modulus

69 GPa

Temp Resistance

300 °C

Applications

Lightweight Housings/Tooling Plates/Aerospace Components

Aluminum 7075-T6 Part
Metal

Aluminum 7075-T6

High Strength Aerospace Alloy

Aluminum 7075-T6 is selected when performance is critical. Its high strength, fatigue resistance, and dimensional stability make it a preferred choice for aerospace, motorsport, and defense components that cannot compromise on safety factors.

Tensile Strength

572 MPa

Flexural Modulus

71 GPa

Temp Resistance

300 °C

Applications

High Strength Brackets/Aerospace Structures/Motorsport Components

Stainless Steel 17-4 PH Part
Metal

Stainless Steel 17-4 PH

Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel

Stainless steel 17-4 PH is selected for CNC machined parts that require high strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance in a single material. It responds well to a range of heat treatment conditions, making it highly adaptable for performance-critical assemblies.

Tensile Strength

1275 MPa

Flexural Modulus

200 GPa

Temp Resistance

315 °C

Applications

Aerospace Hardware/High Load Tooling/Performance Shafts

Stainless Steel 304 Part
Metal

Stainless Steel 304

Corrosion Resistant Austenitic Stainless Steel

Stainless steel 304 is widely used for CNC machined parts that require excellent corrosion resistance, hygienic performance, and long service life. It is ideal for consumer products, laboratory equipment, and marine environments.

Tensile Strength

505 MPa

Flexural Modulus

193 GPa

Temp Resistance

870 °C

Applications

Food and Beverage Equipment/Corrosion Resistant Housings/Medical Fixtures

PEEK (CNC Grade) Part
Available Material

PEEK (CNC Grade)

High Performance Thermoplastic

CNC machined PEEK is used when thermal, chemical, and mechanical demands exceed the capabilities of standard plastics. It delivers exceptional stability for aerospace, medical, and oil and gas applications.

Tensile Strength

100 MPa

Flexural Modulus

3600 MPa

Temp Resistance

250 °C

Applications

High Temperature Components/Chemical Resistant Hardware/Medical Devices

Delrin (Acetal) Part
Available Material

Delrin (Acetal)

Low Friction Engineering Plastic

Delrin combines excellent machinability with low friction, making it ideal for CNC machined components that require smooth motion, tight tolerances, and wear resistance without lubrication.

Tensile Strength

69 MPa

Flexural Modulus

2900 MPa

Temp Resistance

107 °C

Applications

Motion Components/Fixtures and Jigs/Fluid Handling

Polycarbonate Part
Available Material

Polycarbonate

Impact Resistant Transparent Plastic

Polycarbonate is chosen for CNC machined parts that need clarity and impact resistance without the brittleness of acrylic. It performs well in enclosures, protective guards, and optical fixtures that require precise machining and finishing.

Tensile Strength

65 MPa

Flexural Modulus

2300 MPa

Temp Resistance

120 °C

Applications

Protective Guards/Optical Components/Medical Enclosures

Post-Processing

Material Surface Finishes

CNC machined parts can be supplied as-machined or with specialty surface treatments that improve aesthetics, corrosion resistance, and functional performance.

As-Machined CNC Finish
Standard

As-Machined

Ra 1.6 - 3.2 Micrometers

Parts deburred and cleaned straight from the machine with visible tool marks. Ideal for functional components and internal features where cosmetic appearance is not critical.

Finish attributes

Surface RoughnessRa 1.6 - 3.2 micrometers
AppearanceVisible tool paths and matte finish
ApplicationsFunctional parts and prototype assemblies
Precision Milled CNC Finish
Premium

Precision Milled

Ra 0.4 - 0.8 Micrometers

Fine tooling and optimized stepovers produce near-polished surfaces on sealing, optical, or cosmetic faces without secondary finishing.

Finish attributes

Surface RoughnessRa 0.4 - 0.8 micrometers
AppearanceMinimal tool marks and uniform sheen
ApplicationsSealing surfaces and aesthetic components
Post-Processed CNC Finish
Specialty

Post-Processed

Custom Finishing and Coatings

Includes bead blasting, anodizing, chem film, passivation, electropolishing, painting, and part marking tailored to your specification.

Finish attributes

Surface RoughnessProcess dependent
AppearanceUniform cosmetic finish or coated surface
ApplicationsCustomer-facing products and regulated hardware
Value-Added Services

CNC production services

Subtractive programs succeed when DFM, fixturing, secondary ops, and inspection documentation are treated as one workflow.

DFM and tolerance stack review

Balance machinability, cycle time, and critical dimensions before release.

Custom fixturing and workholding

Soft jaws and dedicated fixtures for repeatable multi-op manufacturing.

Secondary operations

Deburr, inserts, engraving, and finishing steps aligned to final integration.

Design Guidelines

CNC Design Guidelines

Our CNC machining guidelines help you design parts that take full advantage of precision subtractive manufacturing. This section is a quick primer before full DFM review.

Maximum Part Envelope

Maximum Part Envelope

1000 x 600 x 500 mm (39.4 x 23.6 x 19.7 in)

Plan part geometry within our standard milling envelopes.

Tolerances

Tolerances

+/- 0.025 mm typical, down to +/- 0.010 mm on request

Standard milling tolerances cover most functional components.

Minimum Feature Size

Minimum Feature Size

Tool access: 1.0 mm end mill | Engraving: 0.25 mm cutter

Feature size is limited by available tool diameters and tool deflection.

CNC Machining advantages
Technology Advantages

Why teams choose CNC

CNC machining delivers production-grade quality with precise dimensional control, premium surface finish, and traceable quality documentation for critical applications.

01Inspection-Ready Tolerances
Hold critical dimensions down to +/- 0.020 mm with in-process probing and CMM verification.
02Production Surface Quality
Achieve Ra 1.6 micrometer as-machined finishes with optional polishing and bead blasting.
03Hybrid Material Capabilities
Machine aerospace alloys, stainless steels, and engineering polymers within a single workflow.
045-Axis Complexity
Produce intricate geometries, undercuts, and multi-face features in a single setup.
05Quality Documentation
First article inspection, FAIR, and traceable certifications available for regulated industries.
06Rapid Turnarounds
Optimized CAM programming and fixture libraries reduce lead times for urgent builds.
Instant Quote Tool

From Upload to Delivery

Upload files, configure manufacturing specs, and track production in one workflow built for engineering teams.

File upload interface
Uploading files

75% complete

Step 01

Upload CAD Files

Automated file checks before production

Drop your CAD files and receive immediate manufacturability feedback. Critical geometry and wall checks run as soon as files are uploaded.

  • Upload STEP, STL, OBJ, and production drawing files
  • Auto-detection for thin walls and trapped volumes
  • Instant design feedback before checkout
Industry Applications

CNC Applications Across Industries

CNC machining is used when tight tolerances, surface finish, and predictable material performance are non-negotiable. Teams use CNC for fixtures, brackets, enclosures, prototypes, and production components across metals and engineering plastics.

Machining is the default choice for production-ready parts when you need tight dimensional control, broad material selection, and established finishing options. It is often used for first articles, fixtures, and end-use components that must match spec without process variability.

Start a quote

Ready to manufacture your parts?

Upload your CAD files to receive CNC machining quotes for CNC components. Production-grade manufacturing with fast turnaround times.

  • Instant pricing with automated manufacturability analysis
  • Production workflows built for repeatable quality
  • Engineering support from prototype to production
View Design Guidelines

Upload your CAD file

STL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF supported

Instant pricing and manufacturability feedback

6
Manufacturing technologies
50+
Engineering materials
1-500+
Part quantities
Frequently Asked Questions

CNC Questions & Answers

Common questions about CNC machining technology. Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out to our technical team.