Sam Brown

CNC turning is a widely used manufacturing process that creates precise cylindrical parts. This computer-controlled process delivers exceptional accuracy, speed, and repeatability. If you're looking to produce precision components with efficiency, CNC turning is a key solution. In this guide, you'll learn what CNC turning is, how it works, and what machines and materials are involved.

Material testing in CNC machining: How to choose the right metal

Choosing the right metal for CNC machining isn't just a design decision; it has a direct impact on performance, reliability, and cost. When a part fails or wears out too quickly, the root cause is often the material. That's why material testing is such a critical step in the process. We'll explore what to consider when selecting metals for CNC machining, and how testing helps verify that choice.

CNC milling 101: An introduction to the CNC milling process

CNC milling has become a cornerstone of modern manufacturing. It plays a crucial role in producing precision components for industries like aerospace, medical, and defence. If you're sourcing parts that need to be exact, fast, and reliable, this is a process worth knowing. You'll discover what the CNC milling process involves, how different machines and operations are used, and what steps are needed to get started.

Hardness testing for material selection

Choosing the wrong material can lead to costly failures, production delays, and unreliable parts. Hardness testing helps you avoid these issues by showing how materials respond to pressure, wear, and force. It provides the data you need to make confident and cost-effective decisions. This guide covers the most widely used hardness testing methods, including Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers, Knoop, and Shore.

Best corrosion-resistant materials for CNC machined parts

28 May 2025

When your components are exposed to moisture, chemicals, or saltwater, choosing corrosion-resistant materials is key to ensuring long-term reliability. Selecting the right corrosion-resistant metal helps protect both performance and your bottom line. This guide explores the best corrosion-resistant materials for CNC machining in harsh environments. You'll learn which corrosion-resistant metals offer the most durability, and when each is the most suitable.

Tapped hole vs threaded hole: Comparing methods

27 May 2025

Threaded holes are a small but essential detail in CNC part design. If they're not specified correctly, they can lead to fit issues, tool breakage, or even part failure during assembly. You'll learn how each threading method works, when to use them, and how to avoid common pitfalls. We'll also touch on materials, tooling limitations, and how to clearly communicate your thread specs. Whether you're prototyping or placing a production order, this guide helps you get threads right the first time.

CNC machining thread pitch chart

27 May 2025

Thread pitch might seem like a small detail, but getting it wrong can cause serious issues, misaligned parts, poor fits, or even mechanical failure. If you're designing or sourcing precision-machined components, knowing how pitch works is essential for ensuring proper fit and function. This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know.

Additive vs. subtractive manufacturing: Key differences and use cases

08 May 2025

Additive and subtractive manufacturing are two of the most important methods used to create parts today. As technology advances, more businesses are comparing these approaches to find the best fit for their projects. The choice you make can influence your lead times, costs, and design flexibility. In this guide, you'll learn how these manufacturing methods differ and when to use each one.

JIT production 101: How just-in-time manufacturing works

23 Apr 2025

Just-in-time manufacturing (JIT) has reshaped how you manage production and inventory in today's fast-moving industries. By focusing only on producing what is needed, when it's needed, you avoid overproduction and save valuable resources. This lean, agile approach helps improve efficiency across your entire operation.

Green machining: How CNC manufacturing impacts sustainability

16 Apr 2025

Environmental responsibility is becoming a key consideration in modern manufacturing. Green machining offers a smarter, more sustainable way to produce high-precision components without compromising on quality or performance. As industries adapt to changing expectations, sustainable machining is becoming essential for staying competitive and future-ready.

Understanding unilateral tolerance vs bilateral tolerance

11 Apr 2025

Tolerancing errors are one of the most common reasons for quality issues in manufacturing. In CNC machining, even small tolerance mistakes can lead to part failures, rework, or costly delays. If you work with CNC-machined components, understanding how different types of tolerance work could save you both time and money.

The role of CMM in CNC quality control

11 Apr 2025

Quality issues in manufacturing often come down to one thing: precision. When you're producing high-spec components for aerospace, medical, or defence industries, even the smallest deviation can create major problems. That's why more manufacturers are turning to Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) to keep their quality consistent and their processes reliable.

Hard metal vs. soft metal machining: Choosing the right approach

09 Apr 2025

Material selection plays a critical role in the success of any machining project. Choosing between hard and soft metal machining can significantly impact your production time, overall cost, and the quality of your final part. Each approach has its own strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases.

A practical guide to geometric dimensioning and tolerancing

07 Apr 2025

Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) helps eliminate confusion by providing a shared engineering language. It clearly defines how parts should look, fit and function across every stage of production. If you're involved in designing, machining or inspecting parts, understanding GD&T is crucial.

Machining design tips for marine technology components

13 Sep 2024

Components for ocean technology applications need to meet two major criteria. How can you ensure your design will meet these criteria? Read more in this blog.

Acetal vs Delrin: What's the difference

21 Aug 2024

What's the difference between Acetal and Delrin? A question we often get asked here at Penta Precision. In this blog we're explain the operational differences, how to choose between them and see our handy side by side comparison table.

The truth about CNC machining: Myths vs. reality

10 Jul 2024

With so many misconceptions about CNC machining floating around, we thought we'd set the record straight.

Machining for space applications

18 Jun 2024

Satellites, and all components that are destined for space travel, experience a unique set of conditions that necessitate careful design and manufacture.

Balancing aesthetic and functional design in CNC machined components: A guide

29 May 2024

Aesthetics vs functionality…the ongoing conflict in the minds of product designers and engineers. In this blog we consider both Aethetic and Functional component design, how you can balance the two and consider some common trade-offs.

Delivery for machined components: Penta Precision's process

20 May 2024

As consumers, we've been conditioned to expect free delivery as standard (thanks Amazon!) and as a result, we often find it hard to accept delivery charges from smaller companies. But do you really want a poorly-paid courier to throw your machined parts on your doorstep? Probably not. So what do you get for your delivery charge?

Understanding manufacturing lead times: How to get your CNC machined parts faster

16 Apr 2024

Discover essential tips for optimising lead times in precision machining, including effective design practices and alternative buying methods. Learn how Penta Precision can streamline your CNC machining projects for faster delivery and improved efficiency.

How much does CNC machining cost?

18 Mar 2024

As a buyer of machined components, cost is probably never far from your mind. In this blog, we break down what a CNC machining quote should cover to help you compare quotes between suppliers in the UK.

3 design considerations for cylindrical components

04 Mar 2024

There are some design considerations that are specific to cylindrical components that make the machining process easier, and therefore, save money. This blog outlines the top three.

Tips for higher quality from CNC machining providers

19 Feb 2024

Quality. Everyone wants it but not everyone is getting it. Here we take you through the main things to look for and questions to ask prospective machining suppliers when it comes to quality.

Unlock cost-effective precision machining

20 Nov 2023

If you're trying to get a component within a specific budget, consistently getting quotes that are just too high is going to cause you problems. Here are a few tips on how to optimise your design and get your component in budget.

Is your supplier ghosting you? How to improve supplier communication

19 Oct 2023

It's all too common. At the start of a relationship, everything's rosy. But then you take the next step... and bam. You've been ghosted. What next? In this blog, we take you through what might be a familiar situation when it comes to communication from your CNC machining supplier, what the horrifying cost of that might be, and how you can improve communication with your existing or new supplier.

Has pre-production exposed hidden problems? Solve your CNC prototyping challenges

09 Oct 2023

CNC prototyping is an essential step in bringing your product to life. It lets you see how your design performs in the real world and identify issues early. However, turning that prototype into a production-ready part can be tougher than you think.

Design for manufacturability (DFM) - Why collaboration is crucial

Design

19 Sep 2023

From cost-efficiency to tight schedules, quality demands, and specific application requirements - there are so many factors to consider and balance during the component design phase. In this blog, we dive into the world of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) – a critical early-stage process in production development that can make or break your project's success.

Electronic enclosure design for machining in 2025

15 Aug 2023

Designing an electronic enclosure isn't always straightforward, and keeping costs down can be crucial for making the end product financially viable. From material choice to surface finish, there are decisions made across the whole manufacturing process where you may be adding unnecessary costs.

Why is my CNC machining supplier less helpful now?

17 Jul 2023

Exploring some common issues that may have arisen with your once reliable, existing CNC machining supplier. From quality and consistency concerns to communication gaps and inflexible approaches, we shed light on the signs that indicate it might be time to consider a new supplier. We delve into the reasons behind these frustrations and help you navigate the process of finding a more reliable CNC machining partner.

Precision machining quality issues: A checklist for success

19 Jun 2023

If your machined components arrive with quality issues, this may not be simply a problem with your supplier producing components to drawing. In reality, quality issues are a symptom of a bigger problem. Find out why this occurs and ensure it doesn't happen in the future.

The price of precision: 5 factors that influence CNC machining costs

22 May 2023

Under pressure to cut spending? Struggling to maintain quality standards? The increase in raw material and energy costs is pushing up the price of CNC machining, but knowing what other aspects of your project will affect price can help you to keep costs down.

How to design a heatsink for manufacture

23 Feb 2023

If you're designing an electronic product, particularly one with a plastic housing, there's a good chance you'll need a heatsink. This blog will take you through the key design considerations to achieve the best efficiency and value for money.

2022 - A year in review

08 Dec 2022

2022 was a big year for Penta: our first full year in our new premises, new team members, new machines and new customers, all while continuing to deliver the exemplary service that we have become known for.

What to know before buying machined components

20 Oct 2022

You place a lot of trust in your suppliers, and usually there is a lot riding on everything going as expected. Here's our spooky take on breakdowns that can happen in that relationship.

Penta wins business growth award

06 Oct 2022

We are over the moon to have been awarded the Business Growth Award 2022 at the Central South Business Awards. The award recognises outstanding vision and leadership through significant and sustained growth.

Is the cost of your machined components increasing?

17 Feb 2022

If you outsource CNC machining, you are probably seeing component prices rise. For buyers that are focussed on getting best value for money, an environment where prices are rocketing can make your job very hard indeed.

2021 - A year in review

14 Dec 2021

2021 has marked a year of change at Penta. From new employees to new locations, our focus for the year has been the same as ever – providing an exemplary service for customers.

How to beat the rise in raw material prices

18 Nov 2021

Engineering raw material prices have rocketed and it's causing chaos. Uncertainty over availability means it's difficult to get quotes for materials, and difficult to get quotes for manufacturing. The timeframe in which a quote remains valid is shortening significantly. We're feeling the effects, and we know our customers are too.

Are badly specified engineering tolerances pushing up your costs?

19 Jul 2021

It can be a tricky balancing act to specify components in industries where there is a need for volume but also for safety, competition is high, or the market is commoditised. Designers and product development teams facing these challenges understand that precision machining tolerances must be detailed. And the datum must be precise. If they get any of this wrong, they risk compromising the product's fit, form and function.

Specifying the right aluminium grade and plastic type for medical devices

14 Jun 2021

You love the brushed aluminium finish on your top-of-the-range designer laptop. And you want the same finish for the high-end medical device you're specifying. But this may not be as easy as you think. The aluminium grade you want may not be readily available. Or the finishing may require special techniques.

Who's at fault? Your CNC machining supplier or your drawings?

12 Apr 2021

You're having difficulties with a precision component for a critical medical device. The part won't fit the assembly. Or the finish isn't right. Or the quality/consistency is hit and miss. Or any number of other issues. But your existing supplier – who perhaps has been reliable up until now – is pushing back: they did "exactly as instructed", they protest. They followed your drawings/CAD models "to the letter". So what went wrong? And how can it be fixed quickly and cost-effectively? You want a second opinion – is the issue with the supplier, the drawings or both?

3 vital questions to ask your medical machining suppliers

15 Mar 2021

Procuring subcontract precision engineering for medical device components can be a minefield. Sourcing the right fit for your supply chain is far from easy because of the sheer number of players out there. Many claim to be specialists in their own particular sphere of CNC machining (while still taking on plenty of non-core work). And you will know from experience that some precision engineers are more precise than others.

How to shortlist your new CNC machining suppliers

01 Mar 2021

You're not happy with your existing CNC machining suppliers. You're seeing warning signs relating to quality, SLA breaches and late deliveries. That's never good – particularly for critical sectors such as medical or aerospace.

Four more reasons to change your CNC machining suppliers

15 Feb 2021

Quality issues and inconsistency… failure to meet SLAs… wrong skill set… late deliveries. These are four of the biggest issues involving suppliers. They make procuring CNC machining challenging and stressful. They waste time and money. But they're not the only reasons to change supplier. Here are four more…

4 reasons to change your CNC machining suppliers

01 Feb 2021

If you're unhappy with your CNC machining supplier(s) then you don't need anyone to tell you it's time to look at other options. But if the jury is still out, this blog post (and free guide) will help you to review your options and decide on the best course of action. Here are the four most common reasons that procurement professionals – either buyers or specifiers – contact us because they're unhappy with their existing machining suppliers…

Specifying aluminium machining for medical applications

10 Nov 2020

Aluminium is not like stainless steel: there is no one 'stand out' grade that is the first choice for medical devices. There is no '316L' of aluminium. Instead, as a purchaser of medical component machining solutions, you are confronted with a plethora of aluminium grades – any, all or none of which may suit your specific medical application. To suggest that's a challenge is an understatement. But it also offers you a great opportunity to improve quality, consistency and savings. How so? Simply this… you won't be on '316L autopilot' as sometimes occurs in the world of stainless steel medical components.

Specifying 316L and other medical-grade stainless steel

25 Sep 2020

316L is usually the first choice for medical manufacturing but it is not the only stainless steel that is available for healthcare applications. Other grades of medical stainless steel may be better suited for your purposes and/or more cost effective. But let's start with 316L. Here is why it is the 'go-to' stainless steel for most medical applications…

Medical plastics machining: Guide to choosing the right types

14 Sep 2020

Plastics can be harder to machine than metals: they can be less forgiving. Machining plastics requires specialist expertise – the kind that comes only with years of experience. But that's just half the battle. Not every plastics machining specialist has the experience needed to meet the stringent requirements of medical equipment OEMs. Choosing the right machining partner for medical applications is vital to ensure quality, consistency, validated processes and traceability of materials.