Does anyone know of any machine shops that can do custom work around here? I modeled up a few designs for shift knobs, ebrake handles, and HVAC controls that I need to have CNC’d. Ideally I would like to just send the shop the 3D model, but I can make CAD drawings if I need to.
Any info is appreciated, thanks.
You’re probably better off going with an online prototyping company that can do rapid CNC work. Most local companies won’t touch 1 off or 2 off parts, it’s not worth their time, or your $$.
And be prepared with some astroglide, CNC one-offs are $$$$ (Maily due to the programming time and if there are fixtures required to manufacture the part)
I’m already assuming it’s going to cost quite a bit, I was just wondering if there were any specific shops in the area that I could go to and get a quote. I know the process of how everything needs to get programmed and everything, I just don’t have access to a CNC machine anymore.
Do you know of any good rapid prototyping companies out there?
If I can’t find anything, I’m considering buying a tabletop CNC machine so I can make small scale parts and start designing/selling them too.
Thanks!
Through work most of our stuff is done by local shops, but in the past I’ve used:
http://www.quickcutcnc.com/
http://www.rapidmachining.com/
Local in buffalo, I haven’t used anyone for CNC, the companies I worked for there all had in-house capabilities.
what does the material NEED to be made out of? how big are the parts? There’s a website that’s super reasonable if you can deal with plastic…(could be used to make a sand-cast part with aluminum or something)
can do up to 7"x7"x7"
Is this full 4th axis contouring work or more basic shift knobs, etc?
PM’d…What program are you using?
I’ll need quantities, drawings and material type: shift knobs, ebrake handles, and HVAC controls
also include your tolerance
http://www.rpdg.com/ is the “new” guy in town.
+1 for First cut as well.
I would not send to a local machine shop unless you want Billet and will pay $500 for one.
I don’t have a banner yet but I am an advertiser on here. I have several CNC machines including water jet. And I did buy a nice welder from Lowly a while back. 
Oh yeah, that’s right! Btw, we are Praxair now…Buffalo Welding Corp no longer exists.
You mad bro? Where you been? No NOCO?
I have a feeling you’re going to be shocked how much it costs to make this stuff. If you use plastic at least you can just print it.
There is no doubt about that. I just may have to invest in one.