Precision Engineering

Precision engineering is classed as a subdivision of manufacturing and gets its name from the extremely high level of accuracy that is needed to carry out the service. The concept has been around for hundreds of years in some format or another, only changing with the invention of new technologies and ways of working.

Nowadays, precision engineering services are most commonly used to mass-produce small parts and components, eliminate the risk of human error, increase business efficiencies and create new and unique precision parts.

The two main types of precision engineering services are CNC Milling and CNC Turning. These disciplines use computer aided design (CAD) software to read digital instructions and design specifications, before feeding this information to the computer. The computer will then control the machining tools to shape the raw material to match the specifications given.

With each advancement in technology, machines become ever more complicated and the parts used to build them become increasingly intricate. This is where precision engineering excels. Using this discipline, manufacturers are able to mass-produce even the most complex components with ease – saving a great deal of time and money, while also reducing the amount of waste.

The components that are manufactured using precision engineering services are often subjected to extreme conditions and pressures. If even the smallest of parts fails, it could have disastrous consequences. Using precision engineering techniques allows manufacturers to produce components that can withstand the test of time and deal with all manners of situations.

Put simply, modern-day manufacturing would certainly not be where it is without the rise of precision engineering services. Manual production is not capable of coping with deviations in measurements and the demand to create the exact same component over and over again. Only precision engineering can deal with the need for finer and finer detail and an increase in mass production. The UK manufacturing sector has really experienced a boom in recent years, and precision engineering has been the driving force.

One of the many advantages of precision engineering services is the versatility that they offer. The most common material used by manufacturers in this field is metal, which can be turned into a huge variety of components. For example, aluminium (the most popular metal used in precision engineering) can be used to create parts such as electronic housings, shafts, gears and aircraft fittings.

Plastics are also commonly used in precision engineering. Nylon, which is extremely simple to machine, can be manufactured into insulators, bearings and products used in injection moulding. PVC, meanwhile, is popular due to its cost-effectiveness and can be found in items ranging from toys to water and gas pipes. Finally, ceramic PEEK is ideal for creating connectors, switches and test sockets.

While metals and plastics are the most commonly-used materials in precision engineering, wood can also be used. This extremely sturdy material is ideal to handle wear and tear, but can be quite expensive and usually requires specialist cutting equipment. Meanwhile, foam based materials are a fantastic choice for carrying out test runs on a project – before moving onto a more expensive material.