Frequently Asked Questions
What types of parts and materials can be machined?
At Cwm Engineering, we specialize in high-precision CNC machining for a wide range of materials, including: ✅ Metals: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Inconel, Hastelloy, S17400, 440C, and Nickel Alloys. ✅ Plastics & Composites: Engineering-grade plastics, Carbon Fiber, and Glass Reinforced Plastics. ✅ Exotic & High-Temperature Alloys: Materials designed for aerospace, defence, medical, and oil & gas applications. We machine complex geometries with tight tolerances using 3, 4, and 5-axis CNC milling and CNC turning. If you have specific material requirements, contact us for a consultation.
What is the minimum order quantity?
We offer flexible production runs, ranging from one-off prototypes to full-scale manufacturing. Prototype & small batch CNC machining is available for customers needing low-volume production. High-volume production is supported with lights-out manufacturing for maximum efficiency. We also provide contract CNC machining services for OEMs and subcontract manufacturing. If you have specific quantity requirements, get in touch, and we will tailor a solution to fit your needs.
How do you ensure precision and quality?
Quality is at the heart of our operations. We are AS9100 Rev D & ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring full traceability and strict quality control throughout production. Our quality assurance process includes: 5-Axis CMM Inspection with our Mitutoyo CRYSTA-Apex V7106. In-Process Probing using Renishaw technology to maintain tolerances during machining. Surface Roughness Testing with Mitutoyo Surftest SJ-210. Temperature-Controlled Inspection Facility for high-precision measurement and verification. We guarantee zero-defect manufacturing by using real-time quality checks throughout production.
What are the turnaround times for production?
Lead times vary depending on part complexity, material availability, and order volume. However, we aim for: Prototyping & Small Batches: Typically 1-3 weeks, depending on design complexity. Production Runs: Lead times start at 3-6 weeks, but we can expedite orders when required. Urgent & Fast-Track Orders: We offer priority manufacturing for critical projects. We work closely with our customers to meet project deadlines and offer Just-in-Time (JIT) and Kanban delivery solutions.
How do you handle design files and CNC programming?
We accept STEP, IGES, DXF, DWG, and SolidWorks files. Our engineering team uses: ✅ CAD/CAM software for CNC programming, including SolidWorks, SolidCAM, and MazaCAM. ✅ Advanced CNC toolpath optimization for efficient, high-accuracy machining. ✅ G-Code programming expertise to support custom manufacturing needs. If you need help with design modifications, manufacturability analysis, or CNC programming, our team can assist.
Can you provide additional services (e.g., finishing, assembly)?
Yes! We offer a complete, end-to-end manufacturing solution, including: Surface Treatments & Metal Finishing: Anodizing, Plating, Heat Treatment, Chemical Conversion, and Powder Coating. Assembly & Sub-Assembly Services: Full or partial mechanical assembly for production-ready parts. Laser Marking & Part Identification: Permanent fiber and CO₂ laser marking for serial numbers, branding, and compliance markings. Custom Packaging Solutions: CNC-cut polyethylene foam packaging for secure transport. We can handle all post-machining operations through our trusted subcontract network.
What are your pricing models and payment terms?
Our pricing is based on material costs, machining complexity, tolerances, and order volume. We provide: ✅ Fixed Pricing for Batch Production to ensure cost predictability. ✅ Volume-Based Discounts for larger orders. ✅ Prototype & Development Pricing for R&D projects and low-volume production. 🔹 Payment Terms: Standard 30-day payment terms (Net 30) for approved customers. New customers may require payment upfront or deposits depending on project scope. For a custom quote, please send us your part drawings and specifications.
How do you protect intellectual property and confidentiality?
We take intellectual property protection very seriously and have policies in place to ensure confidentiality, including: ✅ NDA Agreements: We sign Non-Disclosure Agreements upon request. ✅ Secure Data Handling: Your CAD files and drawings are stored securely with restricted access. ✅ ISO 9001 & AS9100 Compliance: We adhere to strict process control and documentation requirements. ✅ UK-Based Production: All manufacturing takes place in our secure facility in South Wales. If you have concerns about data security or compliance, we are happy to discuss additional protections.
What is the process for requesting a quote and project consultation?
Our quoting process is simple and efficient: 1️⃣ Send Us Your Drawings – Submit STEP, IGES, DWG, or DXF files via info@cwmengineering.co.uk. 2️⃣ Specification Review – We analyze tolerances, materials, and machining feasibility. 3️⃣ Pricing & Lead Time Estimate – A formal quote is provided, typically within 48 hours. 4️⃣ Order Confirmation – Once approved, we schedule production and provide a lead time estimate. 🔹 Need a consultation? Contact us for a discussion about design feasibility, manufacturability, and cost efficiency.
Do you offer trial runs or prototypes before full-scale production?
Yes! We support: ✅ One-off prototypes and small batch CNC machining. ✅ Low-volume pre-production runs to validate maneuverability. ✅ High volume production ✅ Material and process inspection before full-scale production. ✅ Fast-turnaround prototyping for urgent development projects. Prototyping allows for design validation, performance testing, and cost optimization before committing to full production. 🔹 Contact us to discuss your prototype machining needs.