Mechanical Assembly of Subassemblies – Why It’s Worth Outsourcing Complete Modules to a CNC Machining Supplier
Mechanical assembly in modern industry is increasingly becoming integrated with the manufacturing process instead of functioning as a separate stage. More and more companies are asking whether it is better to coordinate multiple suppliers or outsource the production of a complete module to a single partner. From our experience, combining CNC machining and assembly helps reduce fitting issues between components and simplifies production management. Is It Worth Combining CNC Machining and Assembly in One Place? In the traditional production model, individual components are manufactured by different suppliers. Only after delivery are they assembled and completed at the customer’s facility. This model requires coordination of multiple orders, shipments, and quality control stages. Each of these elements increases the risk of errors and makes it harder to maintain control over the entire process. As a result, the likelihood of delays and inconsistencies between suppliers grows. Reducing Organizational Costs Outsourcing the production of a complete module simplifies production management. Instead of handling multiple ERP entries and coordinating several purchase orders, you work with one consistent production order. It also reduces the number of administrative operations related to order processing and delivery control. This is especially important in projects involving a large number of components that require coordination between multiple suppliers. Shorter Lead Times in CNC Machining and Assembly Processes In an integrated model, the process runs more smoothly because components move directly from one production stage to the next without the need to organize transportation between suppliers. This eliminates downtime and reduces waiting times for subsequent operations, resulting in faster project completion. Reducing lead times is important not only operationally but also from a business perspective. It allows products to be introduced to the market faster and helps minimize costs associated with production downtime or project delays. Fits and Tolerances in CNC Machining – One Supplier, One Responsibility Most assembly problems occur where components produced by different suppliers must fit together. Even small differences in tolerances can prevent proper assembly of a subassembly. In such cases, the issue is not caused by a single mistake, but by the accumulation of minor deviations that only become visible during final assembly. We discuss the topic of tolerances and component fitting in more detail in the article: “Dimensional Tolerances and Fits – How to Optimize IT Classes in CNC Machining to avoid Overpaying?” Eliminating Assembly Issues When an entire module is handled by a single supplier, tolerances are adjusted already at the production stage, and any deviations can be corrected immediately. Components are verified as a complete system, which helps avoid assembly problems later on. This is especially important in serial production, where assembly repeatability directly affects production time and costs. Quality Control of the Entire Subassembly Quality control for a finished subassembly includes not only checking individual dimensions but also verifying overall functionality. Fits, movement resistance, and — if required by the project — sealing performance are tested. Thanks to this, the completed module can be used directly in further production stages. We describe quality control and measurement methods in more detail in the article: “How to measure workpieces in CNC machining? Measurement methods and their applications.” How Production and Assembly Integration Impacts the Project Combining CNC machining and assembly allows for a broader perspective on the entire production process. In practice, this means the possibility of simplifying the design or selecting technologies more effectively. Integration of CNC Machining and Assembly Processes In the integrated model, one supplier is responsible for the entire process — from CNC machining and finishing operations to part preparation and final assembly. This approach makes production planning easier and reduces unnecessary operations. As a result, subsequent production stages are better aligned, and the number of intermediate operations is minimized. This has a direct impact on overall process efficiency. Management of Standard Components As part of the module production process, procurement of standard components is also handled, including: This allows the entire subassembly to be produced as one cohesive order. It reduces the risk of using incorrect components and simplifies quality control of the complete assembly. Where Errors Occur in CNC Machining and Assembly Projects In demanding industries such as energy or heavy machinery, failure of a single component can lead to serious consequences. In more complex assemblies, even small errors may result in operational issues or the need for modifications during assembly. Most often, these problems arise from discrepancies between documentation and the actual execution of parts by different suppliers. The Importance of Process Control In the integrated model, assembly takes place in controlled conditions, reducing the risk of contamination and enabling material verification at different stages of the process. As a result, finished subassemblies are more repeatable and less prone to operational errors. Why the Price of a Single Part Is Not the Total Project Cost The cost of an individual component is only part of the overall project cost. Storage costs, assembly organization, team working time, and the risk of errors and rework are equally important. Only by considering all these factors can the actual total production cost be properly evaluated. For this reason, cost analysis should include the entire project lifecycle, not just the price of a single component. Summary Outsourcing mechanical assembly together with CNC machining helps simplify production organization, shorten lead times, and reduce the risk of errors at component interfaces. This results in greater process predictability and improved quality control of the finished subassembly. For more complex assemblies, consistency throughout the entire process — from CNC machining to final assembly — is essential. At SIM Gdynia, we provide production and assembly of components, ensuring proper fit, repeatability, and compliance with project requirements.
CNC Machining in the Medical Industry – Surface Quality Requirements
CNC machining in the medical industry is one of the most demanding areas of manufacturing. In this context, build quality and process repeatability are of critical importance, as the components are used in demanding technical applications. Parameters such as surface roughness and process cleanliness are of key importance here, as they directly affect the safety of the parts’ use. Why is CNC machining in the medical field so demanding? Manufacturing for the medical sector differs from standard industrial production primarily in terms of the level of responsibility. Components such as surgical instruments or implant parts must be completely safe when in contact with the human body. It is not just about the material, but also its finish. Even minor surface imperfections can affect the durability and safety of the component. The importance of surface quality in CNC machining for the medical industry It is precisely at the surface finishing stage that the difference between standard machining and production for the medical industry is most often evident. The greatest challenge is not the fabrication of the part itself, but achieving the appropriate surface quality. Every scratch, microcrack, or irregularity can: This means a higher risk of operational issues and difficulties in maintaining the required cleanliness of the part during use. That is why medical manufacturing strives for a surface that is as smooth as possible and easy to clean. Surface roughness in CNC machining Surface roughness determines how much a given surface deviates from being perfectly smooth. The Ra parameter, which describes the average surface roughness, most commonly appears in documentation. Which values matter In standard industrial manufacturing, Ra values of approximately 1.25 µm are considered acceptable. In the medical industry, requirements are significantly higher—often below 0.4 µm, and even lower for certain components. For the end user, this means: This translates to greater safety of use and better control over the operation of the tool or implant. Sterilization and surface quality after CNC machining Excessive roughness can hinder effective sterilization. Contaminants can remain in microscopic irregularities, which are difficult to remove even in high-pressure processes. Therefore, additional finishing processes are used, such as: The selection of the appropriate finishing process depends on the requirements of the specific component and its application. Material Challenges in CNC Machining for the Medical Industry Materials used in the medical industry, such as stainless steels, titanium, or certain engineering plastics, are among the most difficult to machine. Their machining requires greater temperature control, stable cutting parameters, and the appropriate selection of tools. A lack of control over these factors can lead to a deterioration in surface quality and instability of the entire process. We discuss the topic of machining difficult materials in more detail in the article: “CNC Machining of stainless and acid-resistant steel – technological challenges in demanding conditions”. Temperature control and process stability in CNC machining During machining, some materials heat up faster than standard structural steels. If the process is unstable, this can lead to a deterioration in surface quality or changes in the material’s structure. Therefore, proper cooling, control of cutting parameters, and process repeatability are particularly important. Only the combination of these elements allows for maintaining stable part quality in mass production. We describe quality control and measurement methods in more detail in the article: “How to measure workpieces in CNC machining? Measurement methods and their applications”. Surface finish CNC machining itself is only part of the process. Finishing operations, such as deburring and edge smoothing, are also of great importance. In medical components, even very small imperfections can pose a risk, which is why the final surface quality is just as important as dimensional accuracy. Process cleanliness in CNC machining Part cleanliness is not limited to the absence of visible contaminants. It is also crucial to remove residues from the machining process, such as oils, coolants, or material particles. In medical manufacturing, special technological measures are employed, the cleaning process is controlled, and the material is verified as early as the production intake stage. Material inspection To ensure the quality of the part, material inspection is also crucial. This involves verifying its composition and compliance with requirements even before production begins. Process cleanliness and material inspection are crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of medical components. Summary The production of components for the medical industry requires a combination of precise CNC machining, quality control, and appropriate finishing processes. High requirements regarding surface roughness and cleanliness stem directly from the need to ensure the safe use of parts. Projects for the medical industry require special surface quality control and process stability. At SIM Gdynia, we manufacture parts where precise CNC machining and finish quality are critical to the safety and reliability of the components.
STOM 2026 Trade Fair – SIM Gdynia at the Industrial Spring in Kielce
STOM 2026 is behind us. Several days filled with intensive meetings and discussions with machine manufacturers, tooling suppliers, and partners from the CNC machining industry. From March 24–27, 2026, Targi Kielce once again became a meeting place for the industrial sector during the Industrial Spring event cycle, covering areas such as metalworking, automation, robotics, and manufacturing technologies. Meetings and Observations from the Trade Fair Participation in the event was primarily an opportunity for direct contact with technology suppliers and for evaluating solutions presented at the exhibition stands. Such meetings make it possible to: This is particularly important in an industry where technological decisions directly affect process stability and component quality. Development Trends in CNC Machining We returned from the trade fair with new tools to test and new ideas for further development. The key trends we observed include: In CNC machining, there is an increasingly visible shift toward solutions focused on production predictability rather than only individual technological parameters. The Importance of Industry Events Industry trade fairs remain one of the most valuable sources of knowledge about technological development trends. Direct contact with manufacturers and the opportunity to see machines and tools in operation make it easier to evaluate their application in real production environments. Such meetings are highly valuable because they allow solutions to be compared with practical experience and current market requirements. We would like to thank all organizers and participants for the valuable conversations and exchange of experience.
SIM Gdynia’s participation in the drone trade fair – the development of UAV technology in the defence sector
We took part in a drone trade fair to gain a first-hand insight into the development of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, with a particular focus on its applications in the defence sector. We focused on analysing solutions, talking to market participants and identifying key technological trends. For us, events of this kind are a vital source of knowledge about the industry’s real needs. This is particularly important in the context of SIM Gdynia’s development in the defence sector, which, following the granting of a licence in 2025, has become one of our strategic priorities. The role of drones and directions for technological development Drones are used in reconnaissance, logistics and operational activities, and their development focuses on increasing autonomy, operational precision and efficiency in diverse environmental conditions. From the perspective of mechanical component manufacturing, this means increasing demands in terms of quality, repeatability and design optimisation with regard to weight and strength. Increasing emphasis is being placed on advanced materials and precision manufacturing technologies, including CNC machining, which plays a key role in ensuring the stability and reliability of entire systems. The trade fair also showed us how dynamically the approach to design is changing – functional integration, miniaturisation and the ability to rapidly implement new solutions are becoming increasingly important. Summary Participating in the drone trade fair was a valuable experience for us, enabling us to better understand current trends in technological development and market needs. Direct contact with the industry has provided us with inspiration and is an important element in building our expertise in the field of demanding applications. We will closely follow future events and the further development of UAV technology, treating them as a natural source of knowledge supporting the development of our production and technological processes.
Dimensional and fit tolerances – how to optimise IT classes in CNC machining to avoid overpaying?
Modern CNC machining allows for very high precision in the manufacture of parts. However, in production reality, the most important question is not: how precisely can we manufacture a part, but what level of precision its function actually requires. In practice, many designs include tolerances that are far stricter than necessary. Every tightening of the accuracy class affects the production technology, cycle time and unit cost of the part. In many industrial applications, CNC machining uses IT7–IT8 classes, which ensure adequate accuracy whilst maintaining process stability. Moving into the IT6 range or higher usually involves increased technological requirements and can lead to higher production costs, particularly for more complex parts. IT tolerance classes in CNC machining – the basis for communication between designer and manufacturer IT (International Tolerance) tolerance classes define the permissible range of deviation from the nominal dimension. The lower the IT class number, the narrower the tolerance range and the greater the demands on the manufacturing process. What is the IT accuracy class in CNC machining practice In accordance with ISO 286, classes IT01 to IT5 are mainly used in measuring instruments and reference elements. In machine design, the IT6–IT11 range is most commonly used. For example:for a shaft with a diameter of 50 mm, IT7 denotes a tolerance of approximately 0.025 mm. By way of comparison, the diameter of a human hair is approximately 0.05–0.08 mm. Such minute dimensional differences demonstrate the high level of stability required in the CNC machining process at high accuracy grades. Thermal expansion of the material One of the factors affecting the maintenance of tolerances is the temperature of the material. Maintaining IT6 class for larger components can be challenging, particularly with materials that have high thermal expansion, such as aluminium. Temperature variations between the production and measurement environments can affect the measurement result and the maintenance of the required tolerance. For this reason, temperature stabilisation is often employed in precision CNC machining prior to final quality control. How tolerances affect production costs in CNC machining The relationship between tolerance class and production cost is not linear. Each successive level of accuracy results in a significant increase in process complexity. Cycle time and number of operations Moving from IT9 to IT6 very often means a change in production technology. Instead of a single finishing operation, the following may be required: Each of these stages extends production time and increases the unit cost of the component. Approximate impact of the IT class on the cost of the workpiece IT class Process complexity Estimated production cost IT11 – IT13 Rough machining Base level IT8 – IT9 Standard CNC machining +20–40% IT7 Precision finishing +60–100% IT6 and above Grinding / controlled conditions +200% and above These figures are indicative, as the actual cost depends on the material, the part’s geometry and the size of the production run. Tools and tooling Higher accuracy also requires more precise tooling. In CNC machining, the following are used, among others: Importantly, the tools may still cut the material correctly, but they no longer maintain the required accuracy class. In practice, this means they need to be replaced sooner. The higher the accuracy class, the more complex and costly the production process becomes. Therefore, optimising tolerances is one of the key elements in the design of parts intended for CNC machining. Fits in mechanical assembly Tolerance classes are directly linked to the selection of fits between components. Three basic types of fits are used in mechanical assembly: Loose fit There is always clearance between components. This is used in moving components, e.g. in plain bearings. Mixed fit Depending on the actual dimensions of the components, there may be clearance or interference. Press fit Joining the components requires the application of considerable force or a temperature difference, for example by heating one component or cooling the other. With large industrial components, incorrect selection of tolerances can cause serious problems as early as the assembly stage. The selection of the appropriate fit has a direct impact on the functioning of mechanical joints. Incorrectly selected tolerances can lead to assembly problems or excessive wear of components. Quality control and measurement of parts in CNC machining Precision CNC machining requires equally precise quality control methods. The measuring system must be more accurate than the tolerance we wish to verify. Depending on the geometry of the workpiece, the following are used: In the case of complex geometries, it is precisely coordinate measurements that allow both linear dimensions and geometric tolerances to be controlled. We discuss this topic in more detail in our article on part measurement methods and the role of the measurement room in CNC machining. Summary Optimising tolerance classes is one of the most effective ways to reduce production costs without compromising the functionality of the part. In many cases, applying a more stringent IT class does not improve the product’s performance, but merely increases its manufacturing cost. Therefore, it is worth analysing what level of accuracy is actually required as early as the design stage. At SIM Gdynia, when carrying out projects, we not only manufacture parts in accordance with the documentation, but also support our clients in selecting tolerances and CNC machining technologies to maintain a balance between precision and production economy.Does your project require specific fits or non-standard tolerance classes? Consult our technical department – we will help you select the parameters to strike a balance between precision and production economy.
CNC machining of stainless and acid-resistant steel – technological challenges in demanding conditions
CNC machining of stainless and acid-resistant steel requires significantly greater process control than working with standard structural steels. These materials are commonly used in environments requiring high corrosion resistance, yet they present many technological challenges during machining. We describe the basics of CNC machining technology for ‘standard’ steel in a separate article, whereas stainless and acid-resistant steels require a different approach to cutting parameters and process stability. Process stability is key: tool selection, temperature control and minimising work hardening. Even minor parameter errors can degrade surface quality and shorten tool life. At SIM Gdynia, we carry out projects requiring precision CNC machining of stainless steel for the medical, energy and marine sectors. In this article, we share our experience and highlight the key challenges associated with machining these materials. Why CNC machining of stainless steel is challenging Stainless steels have properties that can cause technical difficulties during machining. Understanding these phenomena is the basis for proper production planning. Stainless steels are one of the most commonly machined groups of materials in industry – we describe this in more detail in our article on the most commonly used materials in CNC machining. Low thermal conductivity Stainless steels dissipate heat much less efficiently than aluminium or structural steels. As a result, a large proportion of the energy generated during machining remains in the tool and the chips. If the machining parameters are incorrectly selected, the cutting edge quickly overheats, leading to blade deformation and a reduction in tool life. An additional challenge is the hardening of the material during machining, which can hinder further cutting and accelerate tool wear. Build-up on the cutting edge Austenitic steels are ductile materials. During machining, small fragments of material can adhere to the tool’s cutting edge, forming what is known as build-up. This alters the geometry of the cutting edge, which negatively affects surface roughness and the maintenance of dimensional tolerances. The properties of austenitic steels, such as low thermal conductivity, a tendency towards work hardening and the formation of built-up edges on the cutting edge, significantly complicate the machining process. Understanding these phenomena allows for the correct selection of tools and CNC machining parameters, thereby reducing the risk of process instability. Strategies for machining stainless steel Stable CNC machining of stainless steels requires the use of appropriate tools, cooling and cutting parameters. Tool coatings When machining AISI 304 and 316 steel, tools coated with AlTiN or TiAlN are often used, as these coatings offer high temperature resistance. These coatings form a protective layer of aluminium oxide, which acts as a thermal insulator and protects the cemented carbide from degradation. High-pressure cooling During deep milling, standard cooling may not reach the cutting zone directly. The use of high-pressure spindle cooling enables effective chip removal and temperature stabilisation. Cutting parameters The selection of cutting parameters for stainless steel differs significantly from those used for structural steels. Machining parameter Carbon steel (e.g. S235) Stainless steel / acid-resistant steel Cutting speed (Vc) 200–300 m/min 60–120 m/min Feed per tooth (fz) higher moderate and stable Process stability high crucial for quality Lower cutting speeds are necessary to limit tool overheating and ensure process stability. Stable CNC machining of stainless steels requires the right choice of tools, effective cooling and appropriate cutting parameters. Only the combination of these elements allows for tool life and consistent part quality. Control of material chemical composition In projects carried out for the energy or medical sectors, material documentation alone does not always provide full certainty regarding the material’s composition. That is why at SIM Gdynia we verify the steel grade using a spectrometer, which allows us to quickly determine the content of key elements such as chromium, nickel and molybdenum. One of the differences between these steel grades is the presence of molybdenum in the latter, which significantly increases corrosion resistance in a chloride environment. We discuss this method of material testing in more detail in our article on analysing the chemical composition of materials using a spectrometer. The use of stainless steels in demanding industries High corrosion resistance and good mechanical properties mean that stainless steels are widely used in many demanding industrial sectors. Medical industry In the manufacture of surgical instruments and medical equipment components, surface quality is crucial. Very low roughness values are often required to enable subsequent finishing processes. Marine and energy industries In a marine environment, components made of stainless steel are exposed to chlorides, which can cause pitting corrosion (a type of corrosion in which the metal is destroyed locally, forming small, deep holes rather than uniform wear across the entire surface). Therefore, when machining components for the marine and energy industries, we pay particular attention to surface integrity, cutting parameter stability and material quality control. Their high corrosion resistance and stable mechanical properties mean that stainless steels are widely used in the medical, marine and energy sectors. In these sectors, surface quality and the stability of the CNC machining process have a direct impact on the operational safety of components. Summary CNC machining of stainless and acid-resistant steels requires appropriate technological preparation, stable cutting parameters and material control. These materials are commonly used in the medical, energy and marine industries, where even minor deviations in quality can lead to serious operational problems. That is why at SIM Gdynia we place great emphasis on both CNC machining technology and the control of materials and finishing processes, which ensure the durability and reliability of the components we produce. Does your project involve stainless steel or acid-resistant steel components?Please contact our technical team.
Quality control in CNC machining – how do we ensure precision at SIM Gdynia?
There is no room for compromise in modern industrial production, which is why quality control in CNC machining is the foundation of every project carried out at our plant. At SIM Gdynia, based on over 45 years of experience, we know that even the most advanced machining centres require rigorous supervision to guarantee the highest quality of mechanical components. The role of a quality controller in CNC machining A quality controller at SIM Gdynia is a person who links the design documentation with the actual detail. Their work begins long before the finished component is shipped. They are a partner to the machine setter – it is the controller who decides whether the first piece in a batch meets strict technical standards. In our practice, this process is dynamic: the controller receives the part, takes measurements and provides feedback to the production department. If the dimensions are within tolerance, the “green light” is given for the entire series. If any deviations are detected, the inspector indicates the necessary corrections, which helps to avoid material losses and ensures operational continuity. Such close cooperation between departments is crucial for building the company’s authority as a reliable supplier. From calipers to “gates” – the quality control process at our production plant The selection of measuring tools depends on the complexity of the part’s geometry and the required precision. At SIM Gdynia, we use a technological process that allows us to validate even the most demanding orders. Measuring instrument Technical application Role in the process Digital calliper Workshop measurements, verification of basic linear dimensions. Quick inter-operational control at the machine. Height gauge Precise determination of height, distance between planes and hole axes. Verification of parts with a more complex vertical structure. Mitutoyo CMM machine 3D coordinate measurements for complex solids and curves. Final validation of parts with the highest degree of difficulty and dimensions up to 1000 kg. Our measuring machine allows us to digitally map the geometry of a detail and compare it with a CAD model. This ensures that every hole, thread or milling is exactly where the engineer planned it to be. Before starting the machining process, we often perform a spectrometric analysis of the chemical composition of the materials, which eliminates the risk of using raw materials that do not comply with the specifications. Step-by-step control process In accordance with the principle of continuous optimisation, quality control at SIM Gdynia is a closed, multi-stage process: Implementing this sequence of actions allows us to minimise the risk of products that do not meet production specifications. Summary Quality control is not just a dry measurement of dimensions – it is a comprehensive production risk management strategy. At SIM Gdynia, the inspector guarantees that the components leaving our plant will work reliably for years to come. By combining experienced staff with modern Mitutoyo metrology technology, we provide solutions that build a lasting competitive advantage for our customers. Do you want to be sure that your components will be manufactured with the highest precision? Contact our experts and find out how our control procedures can support your project.
CNC machining changeovers – how to reduce errors and quality losses?
CNC machining is a process in which every minute of downtime directly affects the profitability of production and the unit cost of the finished part. At SIM Gdynia, based on over 45 years of experience in the mechanical component manufacturing industry, we know that the most critical moment for maintaining operational fluidity is retooling in CNC machining. It is at the stage of changing the product range that the greatest number of errors can occur, which can result not only in material loss but also in tool damage. In the following article, we present specific technological solutions that we use in our daily practice to minimise the risk of errors when setting up machines. Why is changeover a production bottleneck? From a technical point of view, retooling in CNC machining is the sum of the activities necessary to prepare the machine to produce the first correct part from a new series. Industry statistics indicate that inefficient setup procedures can consume a significant portion of the machine’s available working time, which we consider to be a structural error in production management. The most common errors and their technical consequences – know-how from the SIM Gdynia production hall The table below presents a summary of the problems most commonly faced by operators and the methods of eliminating them that we have implemented at SIM Gdynia as part of our quality optimisation strategy. Type of error Technical cause Quality effect SIM Gdynia solution Incorrect tool offset Manually enter the corrector into the tool table. Spindle collision or “undersized” workpiece. Automatic measuring probes. Contamination of the base Chip residue under the vice or chuck. Runout error and lack of surface flatness. High-pressure cleaning procedure. Incorrect choice of tooling Use of flexible chucks with high cutting force. Vibrations and poor surface quality. Selection of rigid, dedicated clamping systems in technology. Error in the NC (Numerical Control) programme Outdated version of the so-called post-processor (digital translator of instructions for the machine). Damage to the tool upon first contact with the material. Mandatory simulation of the tool path in a virtual CAM environment before start-up. Eliminating these technical errors allows for the implementation of a rigorous process, which at SIM Gdynia forms the “backbone” of every operation and guarantees the highest quality and precision without unnecessary material losses. SMED optimisation: How do we reduce machine downtime? Effective CNC machining requires the division of activities into internal operations (performed when the machine is idle) and external operations (prepared while the spindle is running). The goal of SMED optimisation is to move as many tasks as possible to the external group. At SIM Gdynia, the preparation of tools in holders, their measurement and the collection of technical documentation takes place while the machine is still executing the previous order. Our experience shows that this approach significantly reduces downtime, which directly translates into shorter lead times for our customers. Key steps in the error reduction process: First-Off quality control – a guarantee of repeatability At SIM Gdynia, we do not start serial production without fully verifying the first piece. This is a critical moment when we check the linear dimensions and surface roughness, ensuring that the machine settings guarantee a basis for any further processes. If the parameters are consistent with the documentation, we start the series, confident that each subsequent detail will be perfectly prepared for final refinement. However, dimensional precision alone is often only half the battle – in the medical or defence industries, the final part must be free of micro-burrs and meet stringent visual standards. You can read more about the finishing process for mechanical components in our article “Surface finishing after CNC machining“. Summary and conclusions Effective CNC machining is a multidimensional process in which attention to detail at the setup stage determines the stability of the entire production. In order to permanently reduce quality losses, it is necessary to focus on three pillars: Are you planning to manufacture complex mechanical components and looking for a partner who takes full responsibility for the quality of the process? Contact us and receive a quote based on optimised manufacturing technologies.
Spectrometric analysis in CNC machining – why is verification of the chemical composition of the material critical?
In modern industrial production, the CNC machining process does not begin when the spindle is started, but much earlier – at the raw material quality control stage. At SIM Gdynia, we use spectrometric analysis, which is a key link here and guarantees that the chemical composition of the delivered metal is 100% compliant with the metallurgical certificate. In this way, we eliminate the risk of introducing raw material with lower strength parameters into the production process, ensuring that the material meets the exact specifications required in our customer’s design. What is spectrometric analysis of materials? At our CNC machining facility, we do not rely solely on suppliers’ paper documentation, because the reliability of raw materials is the foundation of safety. We verify every material relevant to the project using a stationary SPECTROMAXx spectrometer, which utilises optical emission spectrometry (OES) technology. This process involves generating a spark between the electrode and the metal sample being tested, which leads to the emission of light of different wavelengths. The device’s optical system, equipped with high-resolution sensors, analyses this spectrum, allowing the full chemical composition of the alloy to be precisely determined within a few seconds. Thanks to the device’s advanced tenth-generation optics, we can define not only the content of the main elements, such as carbon, chromium and nickel, but also trace amounts of phosphorus, sulphur and nitrogen. At SIM Gdynia, based on over 45 years of experience, we know that it is these microelements that determine whether the material will retain its weldability and corrosion resistance in extreme operating conditions. 3 key reasons for testing the chemical composition of materials in CNC machining Success in positioning product quality is not a matter of chance, but of a rigorous process. Material verification is standard practice in professional CNC machining because it helps to: Information architecture and security – how does the verification process affect the final price? Many decision-makers wonder whether additional testing of the chemical composition of materials increases the unit cost of a part. Yes, but the cost of testing is negligible compared to the losses resulting from the production of a series of 1,000 defective components made of the wrong alloy. At SIM Gdynia, we make sure that the most important control processes are not “hidden deep” in the production structure, but are an integral and easily accessible part of it. You can read more about the device we use in our production plant in the article: “SpectroMaxx spectrometer – what it is and how it revolutionises the testing of the chemical composition of metals“. The most common mistakes in material selection and how to avoid them Errors in the selection of metal grades can have disastrous consequences for business. The most common problem is ignoring the so-called “material gap” – a situation in which the designer assumes steel parameters that are not 100% reproducible by commercially available alloys. Regular technical audits of the raw material allow us to detect these discrepancies at an early stage. Another mistake is not taking into account finishing processes, such as anodising or hardening, which react differently depending on the precise concentration of alloying additives. Spectrometric analysis gives us the certainty that these processes run smoothly. Summary Verification of chemical composition is the foundation of modern CNC machining. At SIM Gdynia, we combine traditional craftsmanship with technology to deliver components of proven quality. Thanks to spectrometry, our customers in the automotive, defence, medical and energy industries can be sure that every gram of metal meets their stringent standards. Do you need safe mechanical components with a material guarantee for your next project? Consult our engineers.
CNC machining in practice – SIM Gdynia in the TVP3 Gdańsk programme “Zawodowcy”
On a daily basis, we focus on stable processes, quality and timely production. This time, however, we had the opportunity to take a break from our daily work routine and look at our CNC machining from a slightly different perspective – that of a television camera. We had the pleasure of participating in the Zawodowcy programme, broadcast on TVP3 Gdańsk. The programme crew visited our plant to show what modern mechanical component production looks like in practice – from the technological background to the daily work of the team. CNC production “from the inside” CNC machining is often associated exclusively with machines and automation. However, the reality of production is much more complex. During the recording, we were able to present the entire process of manufacturing parts – from technology preparation, through tool and parameter selection, to quality control. The camera accompanied us on the production floor, where we carry out turning, milling and more complex multi-axis operations. We showed how important process stability, repeatability of operations and operator experience are, especially in series production and for parts with high quality requirements. The people behind the technology One of the important elements of the episode was the presentation of the daily work of CNC technicians and operators. Modern machinery is essential, but without a competent team, predictable and safe production is impossible. The material clearly shows that CNC machining is a team effort – requiring precision, responsibility and continuous process control. These are the aspects we tried to show the viewers of the “Zawodowcy” programme. We encourage you to watch the episode The episode featuring SIM Gdynia is available online. We encourage you to watch the material and take a look behind the scenes of our daily work: https://gdansk.tvp.pl/90312497/odc-01122025-technik-mechanik We would like to thank the TVP3 Gdańsk team for their visit and the opportunity to show what modern CNC machining looks like in practice at SIM Gdynia.