Materials and tolerances
What we hold, in what, and what drives the price
So the print you send is one we can quote well.
TOLERANCES
What the shop holds
| Feature | Standard | Tight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Linear dimensions | ±0.005 in | ±0.0005 in | Tight tolerances called out per feature cost less than a blanket note |
| Hole diameters | ±0.002 in | ±0.0002 in | Reamed or bored for tight holes |
| Flatness and parallelism | 0.002 in | 0.0002 in | Ground where the print needs it |
| Surface finish | 63 Ra | 16 Ra | Finer finishes are quoted separately |
| Threads | 2B / 2A | 3B / 3A | Gauged every lot |
What makes a part expensive, and what does not
Setups cost more than cycle time. A part that needs five setups costs more than a part that needs two, whatever the material. Tolerances that apply to every dimension cost more than tight tolerances on the three features that matter.
Deep pockets with sharp inside corners, thin walls, and threads at the bottom of blind holes all add time. We flag these on the quote, and often a small change to the print halves the cost.
Cheaper to machine
- Inside corner radii at or above the cutter size
- Tolerances only where they matter
- Standard thread sizes
- Wall thickness above a sixteenth
- Stock sizes where possible
Finishes we manage
- Anodize, type II and type III, clear and colors
- Zinc, nickel and chrome plating
- Passivation and electropolish for stainless
- Heat treat and stress relief
- Powder coat and paint
- Laser marking and engraving