Why Use the Same Precision Machine Shop for Prototyping and Low-Volume Production
Prototyping is an involved process that requires intensive upfront work and problem-solving. To get a high-quality prototype with superior functionality, you need a dedicated prototype shop with the right capabilities and expertise.
But suppose you plan to eventually take your prototype into low-volume production. Do you settle for a production shop that doesn’t specialize in prototyping, or do you work with two different shops—one for prototyping and another for production?
Neither option is ideal. If you ask a shop to do something they don’t specialize in, you risk quality and could be faced with longer lead times and increased costs.
But what if we told you that there’s a third option available? You could work with a shop specializing in low-volume production and prototype machining services to get all the manufacturing services you need under one roof. It may sound too good to be true, but Armstrong Machining is proof that it isn’t.
Our one-stop precision machine shop is here to take your part from prototype to low-volume production.
Benefits of Using the Same Precision Machine Shop for Prototyping and Low-Volume Production
Let’s take a look at the benefits of working with the same shop for prototype machining services and low-volume production:
Lower costs. Prototyping can be an expensive process. But when you work with one partner for prototyping and production, you have an opportunity to save money as you increase the number of parts in your order. We can apply the same programming and setup from the prototyping phase during your production run, eliminating duplicate work and reducing costs.
Better parts. During the prototyping process, shops get to know parts inside and out, and they can make proactive adaptations to result in better quality parts during production. For instance, a machinist who is already familiar with the prototype might fixture the part a certain way during production runs because they know they’ll have to deal with a perpendicularity callout. If you move your prototype to a new shop for production, they might not anticipate your needs in the same way.
Faster lead times. Using the same shop for prototyping and production streamlines projects for the quickest results. Customers save time by communicating their needs to only one partner instead of two. And because both services take place under one roof, shops can optimize the machining timeline for the fastest turnaround.
Our Process at Armstrong Machining
At Armstrong Machining, we make the transition from prototype to production as easy and convenient as possible for our customers.
We begin with a conversation to discuss your plans for a part or product, including key factors like the projected number of units per year and the target market.
Once we understand the initial requirements, we present a project timeline detailing the length of the prototyping phase and time to market.
We then build the prototype and conduct comprehensive testing for fit, form, and function. Prototyping is an iterative process, so we use this opportunity to test, scrap, and redesign the part until we get it right.
When the prototype is ready for production, we run the parts in-house at our machine shop in Massachusetts. We regularly run up to 200-300 units per week as part of our low-volume production services.
Don’t rely on multiple shops for your prototype and production needs. Come to Armstrong Machining, and we’ll provide both of these services under one roof. Request a quote today!