Optimizing for Higher-Volume Machining

Machining for Higher‑Volume Needs

At Konlida, we fill the production‑quantity gap while solving upfront‑ and warehousing‑cost issues. Our machining capacity – with over 90 advanced CNC machines (including DMG MORI and MAZAK 5‑axis centres) – can mill or turn parts as fast as one day for rapid prototyping, and also serves low‑volume, end‑use part production. This brings down machining costs without adding lead time.

The nominal price‑break point between quick‑turn prototyping and production machining is approximately 15 parts. Production machining also assures part quality with FAI reporting, Certificate of Conformance (CoC) documentation, and certifications such as ISO 9001 and AS9100D.

Production machining does not offer the same economies of scale as moulding or casting – especially at very high volumes (tens of thousands or more). However, as machined production volume increases, cost per part decreases (typical low‑volume runs from dozens to a few thousand). Production machining also solves warehousing and inventory issues, providing supply chain flexibility by producing parts on‑demand. In many cases, customers find our machining service allows them to use a single‑source supplier from concept validation to short‑run production.

Machining for Production Provides Supply Chain Flexibility

Many machine shops can produce machined parts. Konlida offers key advantages, particularly when you need production volumes relatively quickly or varying quantities. With our capacity, we can produce higher volumes faster than typical shops.

Our end‑to‑end process begins with design analysis and quotes. Upload a CAD model to receive a free analysis and quote within hours. If you need prototypes, request a quick‑turn quote and get finished parts in as fast as one day. When ready for higher volumes, request a production quote and get parts in as few as five days. Our capacity, plus a large stock of materials, enables this speedy turnaround. The entire production process – from toolpath development to machining to finishing – is handled in‑house for maximum speed, quality, and process control.

Leveraging machining eliminates the high initial costs of mould or die production. Once the toolpath is developed, you can order machined parts in lots as small as 15 pieces. If your ultimate production volume will be high enough to justify moulding or casting, you can use machining for bridge production to take your product to market while production tools are being made.

For design guidance, refer to our CNC Milling Design Guidelines and CNC Turning Design Guidelines.

Production Machining of Plastics

At volumes of 1,000 or fewer, machining plastics can be less expensive than injection moulding. Machining can produce parts that would be difficult to mould – including those with uneven wall thicknesses or wall thicknesses over 3.81 mm, often needed for fixtures or wear plates.

The speed advantage of machining versus injection moulding at modest production volumes increases with part size. Machining plastic eliminates the risks of sink, warp, and knit lines that can occur in moulded parts, and machined parts do not require draft angles as injection‑moulded parts do.

In some cases, engineers might consider 3D printing for these volumes. However, machined parts are cut from solid billet, offering advantages: greater physical integrity (no layering), ability to use materials not available for 3D printers, and smoother achievable finishes.

Plastic production materials at Konlida (maximum part size: 178 mm × 381 mm × 44 mm):

For a complete list of machining materials, visit our Materials Comparison Guide.