How To Avoid Faulty Custom Machine Parts And Reduce Delays
Faulty custom machine parts don’t just cause headaches; they cost your business valuable time and money. Whether you're dealing with CNC-machined components or waterjet-cut profiles, reducing the risk of part failures and project delays starts with the right approach.
If you’re on the hunt for a custom CNC machining parts supplier, it’s critical to avoid common pitfalls that can derail production timelines. Here’s how to ensure quality from the start.
1. Choose A Reliable Supplier
Your supplier sets the tone for your entire manufacturing process. If they cut corners with materials or processes, you’re far more likely to receive faulty custom machine parts. Instead, work with reputable CNC-machined parts suppliers who have a proven track record and verifiable customer success stories.
Guide for a reliable supplier:
- Check that they use certified materials from a reputable source.
- Do they have any quality certifications, such as ISO 9001, that demonstrate their commitment to high-quality parts?
- Do they machine your items in-house? Some suppliers will subcontract the manufacturing to other companies that may not have the same accreditation they have.
- Are they the right size for you? A small CNC shop may be cheap, but it can easily get overwhelmed with too much work, leading to longer lead times than first quoted and lower quality when it gets too busy.
Poor communication and subpar quality from your supplier will lead to lost time, rework, and mounting frustration.
2. Understand Their Quality Control Process
Before committing to any custom CNC machining parts supplier, ask them to walk you through their quality control process.
Look for:
- In-house inspection equipment (e.g., CMMs, gauges)
- Traceable documentation
- Pre-shipment verification
- Quality certification, such as ISO 9001
A robust process ensures your parts meet spec the first time around, minimising delays and avoiding costly corrections.
3. Opt For Efficient Manufacturing Methods
Not all manufacturing techniques are created equal. Some processes, like certain types of manual milling, are more prone to human error or longer lead times when precision and repeatability matter; waterjet cutting or CNC machining may be better options for your parts.
These methods not only offer faster turnaround times but are also known for their accuracy and reliability, reducing the risk of receiving parts that need rework.
4. Work With UK-Based Suppliers
Choosing UK-based CNC-machined parts suppliers brings several benefits:
- Faster delivery times
- Lower risk of shipping damage
- Quicker issue resolution
- Easier communication
- Site visits are more straightforward
- Easier return of out-of-specification components
If something goes wrong, a local supplier can provide a fix or replacement far faster than an overseas provider.
5. Always Have A Plan B
Even with a trusted supplier, unforeseen issues can occur, such as a material defect, a miscommunication, or a machine failure. That’s why having a contingency plan is essential.
Whether it's keeping extra stock on hand or developing relationships with multiple suppliers, your backup plan can help prevent production downtime.
A good supplier will communicate any delays and work with you to help resolve any issues. It may be that one item is holding up an order from being sent to you, and therefore enabling you to continue with your processes.
6. Communicate Clearly And Frequently
The more detailed your specifications and expectations, the more likely your supplier is to deliver custom machine parts that are right the first time. Maintain regular contact throughout the design and manufacturing process. Share:
- Technical drawings
- Tolerance requirements
- Material preferences
- Surface finish expectations
- Make sure all the information is given at the quote stage; if not, the supplier may have to requote to include the extra work
A proactive supplier will welcome this communication, as it helps them help you.
7. Don’t Overlook The Risks Of Secondary Processes
Even perfectly machined parts can be ruined during secondary processes such as painting, chemical blacking, hardening, phosphating, chroming, PTFE coating, or anodising. These treatments can alter part dimensions, warp delicate features, or result in inconsistent surface finishes, especially if handled by third-party vendors unfamiliar with the part's function or tolerances.
To reduce risk, consider having the same manufacturer that produced the part also handle the finishing. This ensures better process control, reduced handling damage, and clearer accountability. A supplier familiar with the geometry, critical surfaces, and intended fit/function of the part is better positioned to monitor quality throughout the entire workflow.
Before committing, always ask:
- Who is responsible for the secondary process?
- How is quality verified post-treatment?
- Have similar finishes been successfully applied to parts like yours?
Clear instructions and full disclosure of finish requirements at the quotation stage can also prevent surprises or costly reworks later on.
Need Reliable Custom CNC Machining Parts?
At JR Gilbert Engineering, we know that when it comes to custom machine parts, precision, reliability, and turnaround time are non-negotiable. That’s why we go beyond simply machining components; we deliver complete, end-to-end solutions tailored to your exact specifications and deadlines.
With over 20 CNC machines and decades of hands-on engineering experience, our expert team manufactures high-quality, precision-engineered parts for a wide range of sectors, including aerospace, defence, automation, and industrial equipment. Whether you're producing one-offs or high-volume batches, we maintain the same high standard of accuracy and performance.
And we don’t stop at machining. To minimise delays and reduce risk, we can also manage your secondary processes in-house or through trusted partners, including:
- Anodising
- Chemical blacking
- PTFE coating
- Chroming
- Hardening
- Painting
- Phosphating
This ensures better quality control, seamless coordination, and reduced handling errors, all while saving you the hassle of managing multiple suppliers.
As a UK-based partner, we offer:
- Faster lead times and lower shipping risks
- Real-time communication and responsive support
- Rapid resolution of any issues or changes
- Full ISO 9001-certified quality assurance
From first cut to final finish, JR Gilbert Engineering is your trusted partner in precision.
Contact us today to get started.
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