Metal Prototyping Services

For metal prototypes, achievable tolerance depends on the process, geometry, and how the part is fixtured—not a single blanket number.

For CNC-machined metal prototypes, most parts with stable datums and reasonable feature access are typically held in the ±0.02–0.05 mm (±0.001–0.002 in) range on fit-critical features. Tighter tolerances are possible on specific dimensions, but they need to be reviewed and confirmed at quote.

For sheet metal prototypes, tolerance is driven by material thickness, bend depth, and bend sequence. Flat features and hole locations are usually tighter than formed features, and we call out realistic bend tolerances during DFM review.

For metal 3D printed prototypes, as-built tolerances are looser due to the process. When critical interfaces are involved, we typically machine those features after printing to bring them back into tolerance.

In all cases, we review your drawing, identify CTQ features and datums, and confirm which dimensions will be controlled and how they’ll be measured. If required, we can support dimensional or CMM inspection reports so tolerances are verified, not assumed.

Yes. We support GD&T and CTQ feature control on metal prototype parts.

When you provide a drawing with GD&T, we review the datums, tolerance scheme, and CTQ features during quoting—not after machining. For each CTQ, we confirm how it will be produced, how it will be fixtured, and how it will be measured.

For parts with positional, profile, or multi-face requirements, we plan setups to protect datum relationships across operations. Where needed, we align the machining strategy and inspection method to the GD&T callouts rather than treating them as nominal dimensions.

We can also provide dimensional inspection or CMM reports for CTQ features so critical requirements are verified and repeatable across prototype iterations.

It comes down to what you need to prove on the prototype—geometry, tolerance, or speed.

• Choose CNC machining when you have tight datums, precise hole positions, sealing surfaces, threads, or mating features. If the part has CTQs tied to assembly fit, CNC is usually the most reliable route.

• Choose sheet metal prototyping when the part is mainly bends, flanges, brackets, panels, or enclosures and you want a fast fit check. It’s also the right choice if you need PEM hardware, spot welds, or a realistic enclosure build early.

• Choose metal 3D printing when the geometry is hard or impossible to machine—internal channels, lattice/lightweighting, part consolidation, or complex organic shapes. For functional prototypes, we often print the shape and then CNC-machine the critical interfaces so CTQ features still land in tolerance.

If you send the STEP + drawing and tell us what the CTQ features are (fit, seal, alignment, strength, weight), we’ll recommend the process that hits those requirements with the least risk and fastest path.

Yes. We support fast-turn metal prototypes, with lead time driven by process, part complexity, and material availability.

For CNC-machined metal prototypes, typical lead time is about 3–9 business days once the design is released. Simple geometries or single-setup parts can often be turned faster if needed.

For sheet metal prototypes, flat laser-cut parts and basic formed components can move quicker, especially when standard materials and finishes are used.

For metal 3D printed prototypes, lead time depends on build scheduling and post-processing. When critical features are required, additional time is planned for secondary CNC machining.

If turnaround is critical, tell us your target date and CTQ features when you request a quote. We’ll confirm what can be expedited and set a realistic build plan before starting.

Yes. We support a range of secondary operations and finishing to deliver metal prototypes that are ready for testing or assembly.

Common secondary operations include deburring, chamfering, tapping, reaming, threaded inserts, and light assembly. For sheet metal prototypes, we also support PEM hardware insertion, welding, and basic sub-assemblies.

For surface finishing, options include as-machined, bead blasting, brushing, anodizing, plating, passivation, and laser marking, depending on material and application. For metal 3D printed parts, we can handle support removal, surface cleanup, and post-machining of critical features.

During quoting, we confirm which secondary steps are required and how they affect tolerance, appearance, and lead time, so the finished prototype matches your functional and validation needs.

We prototype in a wide range of commonly used metals, with material selection matched to the process and the purpose of the prototype.

For CNC machining, typical materials include aluminum alloys, stainless steels, carbon steels, brass, copper, and titanium. These are commonly used for functional prototypes where strength, fit, or surface finish needs to match production intent.

For sheet metal prototypes, we regularly work with aluminum, stainless steel, and mild steel in standard thicknesses suitable for forming, welding, and hardware insertion.

For metal 3D printed prototypes, material options depend on the printing process and build availability, but commonly include stainless steel and aluminum alloys, with post-machining used when tighter tolerances are required.

If you’re unsure which material makes sense at the prototype stage, share the application, test requirements, and CTQ features, and we’ll recommend a material that supports validation without over-engineering the first build.