FAQ
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Can you detail the tolerances of your machined parts?
Our exact tolerances depend on the specific requirements of the drawings provided by your company. For our current equipment, the maximum accuracy we can process is 0.002mm. In addition, if your company has high-precision requirements, the cost will definitely increase accordingly.
Which materials are compatible with TOPS CNC machining services?
Commonly used CNC materials include metals such as aluminum, steel, brass and copper, and plastics such as ABS, polycarbonate and POM. You can contact us directly for more information.
How much does your CNC machining service cost?
The cost is related to several factors, one is the material you choose, and the other is the quantity of your order. If you choose expensive materials and the quantity requirement is relatively small, the price will be relatively high, otherwise, the price will be low. Of course, this requires detailed analysis of the specific situation. We can only give an accurate quotation after receiving your detailed quotation requirements.
Do you have a MOQ for CNC machining services at TOPS？
Tops can accept single part or mass production orders. Therefore, there is usually no strict minimum order quantity. No matter what your needs are, tops can provide you with a solution.
What is the typical lead time for receiving a part after placing an order?
Delivery time will be determined based on the complexity of the product design, the ease of purchasing materials and TOPS's current production load. However, one of the advantages of CNC machining is its speed. Especially for simple parts, once the program is set up, the machining time is still very fast. Processing time may only take 1 day, but in order to get an accurate estimate, it is best to come to us directly for a quote.
Can you elucidate your strengths and expertise in CNC milling?
Tops precision offers the capability to manufacture exceedingly intricate rapid prototypes and low-volume production components. Our CNC milling procedure accommodates an extensive array of materials suitable for diverse applications. We can attain standard tolerances as precise as +/- 0.05mm, and for even more exacting specifications, tolerances of up to +/- 0.01mm are attainable.
What distinguishes CNC milling from CNC lathe processes?
Milling is ideal for machining flat or contoured surfaces. During the machining process, the cutting tool rotates and moves on the workpiece to machine the material, creating features such as grooves, holes, pockets and complex contours. CNC lathes are best suited for cylindrical or rotating parts. During turning, the workpiece rotates and the tool moves along its axis to machine the material into cylindrical shapes such as shafts, pins and threaded parts. The choice of CNC milling and CNC lathe processes depends on the specific requirements of the part to be produced. Some manufacturers combine CNC mill and lathe functions in a single machine, called a CNC turning center or mill-turner, which in turn increases versatility and efficiency.
Which components can be produced through CNC turning?
CNC turning is a relatively versatile machining process with a wide range of applications, especially suitable for processing parts with cylindrical or rotating features. These include: shafts, pins and fasteners, bushings and bearings, threaded components, flanges, etc.
Can you produce plastic turned parts?
Yes, we can produce plastic turned parts using CNC turning processes. Plastic turned parts are commonly used in a variety of applications across a range of industries due to their lightweight, non-corrosive and cost-effective nature. The main plastic raw materials used by our company are: Acetal (Delin), Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Nylon, PEEK, PVC, PC, PTFE, UHMW. Choose from our wide range of plastic materials and Send your drawing request to get customized plastic parts.
What are the steps of die casting process?
Mold preparation: The mold is usually made of high-strength steel, and the mold consists of two parts: the male mold and the female mold.
Injection molding: Next, liquid metal, usually an alloy such as aluminum, zinc, or magnesium, is poured and forced into the mold under high pressure. This ensures that the entire mold cavity is filled and the metal solidifies quickly.
Cooling: After injection, the molten metal cools and solidifies inside the mold. Cooling can be accelerated by using internal cooling ducts within the mold.
Ejecting the mold: Once the metal has solidified and formed into the desired shape, an ejection pin is used to eject the part from the mold. Then take the parts out.
Deburring: After the casting is taken out, there is often excess material, called a water gap, which needs to be removed through trimming or deburring processes. This involves hand sanding or grinding to obtain the final part shape.
What type of metal is most suitable for die casting?
There are many metals and alloys to choose from for die casting projects. Commonly used metals include zinc, aluminum and magnesium alloys. Each metal alloy has different physical properties, advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you need to choose according to the different needs of your project. You can contact us and we will provide professional advice.
Does the temperature play a crucial role in the process of metal die casting?
For sure, temperature is a very important factor in the die casting process. Different metals have different melting points, and the appropriate temperature ensures that the metal alloy can be heated correctly and flow into the mold. Otherwise, too high a temperature will cause damage to the mold cavity; too low a temperature will cause insufficient metal melting and defects such as shrinkage cavities in the casting. Therefore, it is very important to monitor the temperature.
Is rusting a potential problem for metals used in die casting?
Depends on the time and environment you store it in. Cast parts are typically made from aluminum, zinc, and magnesium rather than primarily iron, which makes them somewhat resistant to corrosion and less prone to rust. However, if the casting is exposed to the natural environment for a long time without surface treatment, it will oxidize with the air and then rust. And with proper coating, electroplating or powder coating, castings can be protected from rust and corrosion.
What materials does TOPS offer?
Tops offers zinc, aluminum, and magnesium die cast alloys.
Can I expect to receive die cast parts that are 100% free of porosity defects?
It is impossible to achieve 100% porosity-free die castings. Porosity in die castings is usually caused by trapped gas generated during the casting process and is difficult to completely eliminate. We can reduce porosity by optimizing casting parameters, using appropriate equipment, and employing techniques such as pressure die casting. In addition, we will negotiate with the customer to locate the reduced pores in non-critical areas.
Which surface treatment options can be applied to aluminum die-cast products?
Various surface coatings and treatments can be applied to aluminum die castings that can enhance their appearance, durability and functionality. Some common types of surface coatings and surface treatments for aluminum die castings include:painting, Anodizing,plating,power coating etc.
Can anodize treatment be employed on aluminum die cast products?
Yes, die cast aluminum can be anodized. For aluminum die-cast products, anodizing is a common surface treatment, and black anodes are very commonly used. The anodizing process is widely used in various industries to achieve the specific functional and aesthetic requirements of die-cast aluminum parts.
Why is there a requirement for 2D drawings when I've already transmitted a 3D CAD (STEP) file?
3 CAD can see the structure and dimensions of the product, but most files do not include the tolerances, quality standards, inspection standards, etc. of the parts, which is why 2D drawings are needed.