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Process Improvement for the CNC Machining Process

A group of people in hard hats working on machinery.


Two machinists adjusting a milling component

Every manufacturer knows that eliminating waste via process improvements reduces costs. They also know that removing variation in processes results in the most accurate and repeatable product.

The experts at United Scientific have incorporated continuous process improvement throughout the shop because they want to produce the highest quality part at the lowest cost.

Read on to learn more about applying process improvement techniques to the CNC Machining process. Then contact United Scientific to get started on your next component manufacturing project.

Group of light bulbs with shining fibers in a shape of Change Management, Strategy, Solution and Innovation concept related words isolated on black background

What is Process Improvement?

Process Improvement is just what it sounds like. It is looking at the processes involved in running your business, from accepting customer orders to moving materials in the warehouse, to the machine settings used to fabricate a part, and improving them.

You can implement many Process Improvement tools on the shop floor.  These tools are grouped into broader improvement categories such as Lean and Six Sigma. These quality methods utilize tools such as 5S, Kanban Systems, Single Minute Exchange of Dies, and Standardized Work, among many others.

Below, we’ll cover a variety of these tools that are most commonly put to use when machining parts.  To see any of these continuous improvement tools in action on the shop floor, contact USI to get a quote on your next component fabrication project.

Two men adjusting the controls on an automated milling machine

It takes teamwork

Process Improvement takes a team effort. Gathering stakeholders in different departments around the company with varying levels of experience will enhance input for improvements.

Pulling in members from adjoining functions like material handling and accounting can round out improvements for optimal efficiency in production.

It’s imperative to include someone from the finance side of the business.  Being efficient on the job floor usually requires requesting materials and closing jobs in a cost tracking system.

Be sure to include someone with an in-depth understanding of the specific steps required to issue materials or close a shop floor job, to track costs correctly.

Another added benefit of including personnel not directly involved in the machining process itself is that they provide fresh eyes and a new perspective. Inviting innovation means thinking outside the box without judgement until reaching team consensus on the best process.

Be sure also to include those experienced in the process. People with expertise, experience, and longevity can remind everyone of past lessons learned.

Improving the “wheel†over reinventing it may be the goal of process improvement. However, re-creating all the failed models along the way is best avoided.

Always be on the lookout for whether the “wheel†is in fact obsolete and easily replaced by something entirely different. A key takeaway for process improvement is staying flexible in your approach.

Define your problem

Figure out if you are solving a problem from a 10,000 ft perspective or a 10 ft perspective.  For example, are you trying to determine why production output has decreased by 10% in the last quarter (10,000f t)? Or, do you wonder why machine #3 only yields 80% accuracy when fabricating part XYZ (10 ft)?

Defining the problem also prevents “scope creep†from occurring, so your end product doesn’t turn into a 300-page manual. Keep your areas of process improvement precise and clear. Now, write a brief description of the problem and include:

  • the metric used to measure the improvement,
  • where the problem is occurring,
  • the time frame over which the problem has been happening, and
  • the magnitude of the problem.

The words Act, Plan, Try, Review around the word Improve

Select your process

Before you can choose which process improvement tool to use, understand the strengths of each tool. Let’s look at a few here.

Is/Is Not Matrix – is often used to help define the problem.  In simplest terms, look at what, why, when, where, who, and how, and ask what is it and what is it not?  Where is it? Where is it not?

Write a concluding statement to each of the questions above to define your overall project scope and potential first steps.

Follow up this particular exercise with another process improvement tool like the 5 Whys or the Fishbone Diagram.

5S – is a process for Sorting, Setting in order, Shining, Standardizing, and Sustaining your work environment. It eliminates waste and lost time due to a poorly organized work area.

Check sheets – also referred to as location or concentration diagrams, are used to collect and display data. The data collected can be used to identify the location of an issue, the frequency, patterns in defects or downtime, etc.

Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) – provides a measure to track how well you eliminate waste from the process.  Check out this article for a more in-depth explanation.

Bottleneck analysis – finds the weakest link in the manufacturing process.

Value stream mapping – charts a current state and a future state and then provides a means of mapping out how to eliminate waste and make process changes to reach the optimal future state.

Fishbone Diagram – starts with listing out a problem definition in the head, then identifies the significant factors involved. Included in the diagram and manpower, method, material, and machine as major bones. In a fishbone diagram, you’ll continue creating “bones” off of each of the significant factors and identify causes to eliminate.

Plan – Do – Check – Act (PDCA) – applies scientific experimentation methods to a manufacturing process. First, propose an improvement (Plan), then implement the improvement (Do), evaluate the results (Check), and refine and propose new changes (Act).

Spaghetti Diagram – provides a map of the physical flow that material or documentation travels throughout a manufacturing process. This diagram can be useful in identifying wasted travel times or ways to streamline complexities.

All of these processes are helpful in both micro and macro levels of manufacturing. For example, 5S could review the entire production floor layout, or it could look specifically at the tool and material locations around a given machine.

Be better!

At United Scientific, we use process improvement to create parts with a 99-plus percent accuracy factor and yielding only 131 defective parts per million. For superior accuracy, and high quality, precision parts, contact United Scientific.

Let their experience in process improvement make your next project outcome the best it can be.

 

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Parts Manufacturing With Subtractive vs Additive Methods

A table with many different types of metal parts.


Samples of stainless steel metal parts

Making the right manufacturing choices is crucial for quality products and a successful business.

If you’re involved in designing, building, sourcing, or purchasing metal components, you’ll want to understand the differences between subtractive and additive manufacturing.

You’ll also want to know when it’s better to choose one of these manufacturing methods over the other.

There are a few things you’ll want to know about your finished part when choosing between subtractive and additive manufacturing. For example, the size, the volume, the finish, and the materials used all affect the decision.

Here at United Scientific, we’ll help ensure your parts manufacturing choices meet all your needs. We’ll help you determine what is the best parts manufacture process for your project — subtractive or additive manufacturing.

What’s the difference between subtractive and additive manufacturing?

It’s easy to remember the most significant difference between additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing. Here’s why: the two terms mean just what they sound like they say.

Subtractive manufacturing starts with a single piece of material, such as metal, glass, or plastic. There are also some composites and woods that can be used.

Then, the manufacturer removes any part of the material not needed until only the desired manufactured product remains.

Additive manufacturing analyzes the finished product and then builds it “from the ground up,†layer by layer. Once all the layers are assembled, the product is complete. Materials are often plastic composites and may be more flexible.

 Close up of CNC machine at work with coolant streams

More About Subtractive Manufacturing

Here’s an easy way to understand subtractive manufacturing: Visualize a sculptor chiseling away marble to leave behind a beautifully detailed statue made out of one piece of stone.

Subtractive manufacturing is a similar process. You start with one solid piece of material, and sections are removed until you’re left with the finished product you want.

The removal process can be done manually, but most often, it’s done with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. CNC uses computer technology to ensure the removal process is precisely accurate and replicable on a large scale.

Now, you might be wondering: how is the material removed? Lasering, drilling, and boring are just a few of the ways unneeded sections can be removed.

Many different materials can be used with subtractive manufacturing, but aluminum and stainless steel are popular options. Glass, nylon, and composite materials can also be used.

3D printer printing blue wavy shaped part

More About Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing builds a part layer by layer. Often, a computer program like CAD is used to create a 3D model that is then “sliced†into layers that the 3D printer (the most common additive manufacturing tool today) produces.

Parts made from additive manufacturing may need additional work after they are manufactured. For example, the finish may be wrong, or there may be support structures that need to be removed.

There are many different materials that can be used in additive manufacturing, such as nylon or resin. However, material selection is more limited in additive manufacturing than in subtractive manufacturing.

When Should You Choose Subtractive Manufacturing?

You might want to choose subtractive manufacturing if:

  • The part is made of metal. While it is possible to use metal in additive manufacturing, it’s usually cost-prohibitive.
  • Durability is important. Because the item is from one solid piece, there are no seams or weak spots. The durability of subtractive manufactured goods has made them a popular choice for aircraft manufacturing, for example.
  • You want a smooth finish. The lack of lines might mean less work post-manufacturing, depending on your desired outcome.
  • Stringent specifications or sharp angles are required. Using CNC machining results in more consistency and detailed precision.
  • The part is needed in high volume. Subtractive manufacturing with CNC machining is fast and is an excellent choice if you need a large number of identical parts.
  • Industry qualified materials are required. The automobile industry is one industry that relies heavily on subtractive CNC manufacturing.
  • The part is large. Building a large part from “nothing,†as is done with additive manufacturing, can take a long time and diminish the stability and sturdiness of the piece. On the other hand, subtractive manufacturing is a quicker process.
  • There is a near-net-shape part produced by additive manufacturing that needs to be finished. Hybrid manufacturing is an option, and subtractive manufacturing is usually the last step.

CNC machining with sparks shooting out

When Should You Choose Additive Manufacturing?

You might want to choose additive manufacturing if:

  • The design is exceptionally complex geometrically. Intricate models and minor changes are more difficult and costly to make with subtractive manufacturing.
  • Only a few copies of the part are required. Additive manufacturing can be an excellent choice for prototypes or samples.
  • The turnaround time is incredibly short. It is quicker to program a 3D printer than a CNC subtractive machine, so if you need your part in a day, choose additive manufacturing.
  • The material for the part is flexible. Subtractive manufacturing works better with more rigid materials.
  • Limiting waste is crucial for your business. Since the part is built layer by layer, there’s less wasted material to discard when finished, and compostable plastics can even be used. (However, it’s not entirely waste-free and will still require waste-management efforts.)
  • The part has a hollow center. Additive manufacturing is more efficient at creating pieces with hollow interior sections.
  • The part is small. The layered construction method means the finished product isn’t as structurally solid as an item manufactured subtractively.

Can you use both additive and subtractive manufacturing together?

Some clients find that the best way to complete a project is to create a hybrid part, one made using both subtractive and additive manufacturing.

Typically, a hybrid manufacturing process means the geometrically complex pieces are completed using additive manufacturing. Then subtractive manufacturing is used for precision elements.

Need help getting started?

Starting your manufacturing process right is essential. Reach out to United Scientific today to discuss your manufacturing needs and how we can help you fulfill them.

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What is Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)?

Two men in blue overalls are looking at a machine.


Two workmen operating machines in modern industrial shop standing by control panel and pushing buttons

Makers of Things, this article is dedicated to you. In any production line, all stakeholders benefit from Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). The ability to produce or receive high-quality parts and products at the lowest price, and the quickest turn-around should be a primary goal for all CNC operators.

From food service to rocket mechanics, your productivity hinges on the achievability of top OEE. At United Scientific, our CNC operators understand the ins and outs of overall equipment effectiveness. OEE is a metric we use to improve our efficiency regularly.

Join us as we break down the components of OEE and show you what to look for in a highly effective parts manufacturer. When only the best CNC collaborator will do for your product or part, United Scientific stands ready. Contact us today to discuss your precision cutting and part production project.

The moving parts of overall equipment effectiveness

One might think that quality or on-time delivery alone signals a high OEE score. In fact, there are three components to achieving top marks for OEE. They are:

  • Availability
  • Performance
  • Quality

Let’s define those terms in depth.

Pale blue mirrored letters OEE on gray gray upturned arrows

Availability

The availability metric of OEE is a product of Planned Production Time, Planned Stops, and Unplanned Stops in production.

In other words, if your factory runs from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday, a 100% Availability score means there are no stops in production during your open hours. A perfect availability score each day is not realistic.

Every production line will encounter equipment breakage or downtime, as well as material shortage from time to time. Other unplanned stops may involve staff shortages or other personnel issues while the line is scheduled to run.

Planned stops include regular equipment maintenance, cleaning, shift change over, process set-up, or something else. Though it would seem that unplanned stops affect the OEE availability the most, the truth is that planned stops have the largest negative impact on availability.

If your shop has inefficient maintenance schedules, long and lingering shift changes, or unclear set-up instructions for your shop floor team, these phenomena can drag down your availability score quickly.

Performance

The performance metric of OEE measures actual cycle time or run rate against ideal cycle time or run rate. In other words, if at our best we could complete a production cycle in 45 minutes, but instead only complete it in one hour, our performance metric would only be 75%.

Slow cycles and small stops contribute to a lower performance score. Whenever your line sits ready-but-idle, constitutes a small stop. Reduced speed on your production line defines a slow cycle.

Old equipment breaks or runs slowly. Machines have their quirks and must be reset. Lubrication runs out, and production materials come in different quality grades. Operators have varying levels of experience and expertise.

All of these “kinks†can slow production or stop it for just a few moments to enact a quick or routine “fix.â€

Since production equipment and personnel are fallible from time to time, small repairs or settings adjustments seem like a frustrating but normal part of manufacturing. Many shops become “blind†to these performance-suckers because they happen with such regularity.

However, when slow cycles and small stops pile up, those seemingly “routine†stoppages can have a disastrous effect on performance metrics. It’s smart to periodically evaluate your reasons for slow cycles and small stops so you can proactively reduce their frequency.

Engineer wearing a yellow hard hat and safety glasses inspects a manufactured part while holding a laptop computer

Quality

The quality measure of OEE has everything to do with finished product output. Any imperfect pieces that must be reworked or scrapped will bring down overall OEE.

If you’re striving for a 100% quality score, that means every part you machine must come out to acceptable selling quality. It’s nearly impossible to hit a 100% quality score consistently, as there will always be defective or rejected parts that can be reworked and sold in any project.

Making sense of OEE and setting realistic goals

Of course, any machining or production shop wants a 100% OEE score all the time, right? However, with three independent scoring factors, an A+ in OEE is likely the unicorn you’ll never capture.

A company’s OEE score is a product of Availability x Performance x Quality. Even if each criteria scores 85%, the composite OEE score comes out significantly lower than each individual marker.

On a positive note, improving even one of your OEE component scores will raise your overall OEE. As a company, you’ll likely have one score where you can truly be a rockstar when you apply conscious effort and sound strategy.

As a benchmark, an OEE score of 85% puts you in a world-class category. If you’re not close to that mark yet, consider setting realistic goals for incremental improvement.

For example, if you’ve noticed your shift changes lack a sense of urgency, consider rallying your shop floor team leads. Perhaps you can empower your team to innovate ways to help staff keep production lines running at top speed even as employees change locations on line.

What if the bottleneck in your production is an old and worn out cutter?

A strict budget for the short-term goal of replacing a cantankerous piece of equipment makes sense to increase OEE for long-term productivity.

Two machinists and one supervisor standing around a piece of CNC machining equipment

Increasing OEE is a team effort

When your team knows and understands why OEE is essential to the company’s success and how they benefit from that, OEE scores may be easier to improve.

Gaining valuable input from operators as well as motivation from the top leadership down is essential in achieving and maintaining a high OEE score.

When you get serious about elevating your OEE score, be sure to include all stakeholders in goal setting and benchmarking for success.

Outsource your OEE with United Scientific

At United Scientific, we machine parts with superior precision for each client we serve. We partner with a wide variety of sectors, from automotive to medical devices, and many industries in between.

Contact us today and see how our attention to OEE in our parts production can work for your application.

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What Can You Make with Fiber Reinforced Plastic?

A close up of a drill bit on top of a keyboard


The milling machine processes the plastic blank

The manufacturing world has transformed drastically over the decades as materials have become stronger, lighter, and more readily available. One of the most innovative changes has been the introduction of fiber-reinforced plastic. This incredible product helped revolutionize many industries.

With the advent of CNC machining, fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) now has many applications. The experts at United Scientific Inc. use computer numerical control processes to craft what you need from FRP for all your design and building needs. We work with expertise, accuracy, and precision on all of your projects.

If you’re ready to see what FRP can do for your business, take a look at all the possible applications.

What Is Fiber-Reinforced Plastic?

Also called fiber-reinforced polymer, FRP is a composite material. It consists of a plastic matrix that has fibers in it made of a different material. These fibers are usually glass or carbon, and they serve to reinforce the plastic to make it stronger without adding significant weight.

The plastic matrix, on its own, is prone to breakage under high heat or pressure. It is quite weak. But with the addition of the fibers, the product suddenly can handle more demanding tasks. This strength, without a lot of weight, makes FRP an ideal product for many industries.

Toy parts designed and precisely cut out by a CNC machine from a sheet of ABS plastic.

Benefits of Fiber-Reinforced Plastic

This incredible material offers tremendous advantages over stand-alone plastics.

  • Corrosion Resistance – Because of its ability to maintain integrity, even in water, FRP is excellent for maritime applications. The material remains intact, no matter the environment.
  • Lightweight – FRP is exceptionally light for its strength and durability, making it perfect for civil engineering and aerospace projects.
  • High Strength – The simple addition of fibers to the plastic matrix vastly increases the strength of the product. FRP is highly valued in civil engineering and seismic retrofitting projects for this reason.
  • Impact Resistance – Panels made of FRP retain their shape and integrity even in collisions.
  • Moisture Resistance – Fiber-reinforced plastic won’t warp, crack, or mold when exposed to water. This property makes FRP perfect for oceanic uses.
  • Environmental Friendliness – Since FRP has excellent durability on its own, it does not require hazardous coatings to protect it from the elements. FRP’s long lifespan means it does not require frequent replacement, so there is less waste.
  • Cost-Effectiveness – Compared to other high-end or unique building materials, fiber-reinforced plastic tends to be lower in cost and much more economical.
  • Exceptional Thermal Properties – FRP products provide excellent insulation, making them the perfect choice for many uses.

Engineers, designers, and builders know that FRP is a game-changer for their businesses. With the availability of this incredibly durable, lightweight, and relatively inexpensive product, the sky’s the limit.

Inlet manifold of car engine with fuel injection. Shallow depth of field with the manifold in focus.

Who Uses Fiber-Reinforced Plastic?

FRP panels show up in all kinds of applications. No matter where you are in the supply chain, there is likely to be a use for fiber-reinforced plastic. The highly-prized benefits of this material make it ideal for parts manufacturers, designers, and builders. The top industry users of FRP are:

  • Aerospace Industry – The high strength and low weight of FRP make it perfect for aeronautical applications. Aerospace engineers and design teams require materials that can withstand significant pressure and can handle vast changes in temperature. Fiber-reinforced plastic fits the bill.
  • Maritime Industry – Because FRP is less likely to corrode than other materials, it is an ideal candidate for shipping and oceanic purposes. The strength and low weight are also necessary for this industry.
  • Civil Engineering – Structural projects such as bridges, skyscrapers, and seismic updates benefit from the use of fiber-reinforced plastic. In particular, FRP is ideal for projects that involve retrofitting and upgrading existing structures.
  • Automotive Industry – With an unmatched strength-to-weight ratio, FRP is perfectly-suited to car manufacturing. From gas pedals to intake manifolds, this miracle product provides just what the engineer and design crews need to make their ideas a reality.
  • Construction Industry – Aluminum doors and windows often have FRP coatings for insulation.
  • Sporting Goods – FRP no longer exists solely in big engineering industries. It is making its way into homes, gyms, and clubs as part of sports equipment. Hockey sticks, rackets, and bike frames can all make use of FRP products. Sporting items with fiber-reinforced plastic are very lightweight, improving the player’s performance.
  • Other Consumer Goods – As FRP becomes more mainstream, it’s showing up in guitar picks, violin bows, instrument cases, and remote-controlled items. Drone manufacturers also rely on fiber-reinforced plastic.

lathe machining a plastic blank

Can CNC Machinists Work on Fiber-Reinforced Plastic?

Not all machinist shops can work on FRP. At United Scientific Inc., however, we are proud to provide excellent FRP work for our clients. From small and intricate parts to large panels, we can deliver what you need.

FRP is valuable to many industries and for a wide variety of uses. The CNC machinist works with precision and care to create what the customer requires. The USI team is proud to offer this service to our clients. Here is some of what our expert crew provides:

  • Molding
  • Extruding
  • Laminating
  • Drilling
  • Forming
  • Assembly
  • Stamping
  • Deburring
  • Swiss Screw Machining

Whether you need a part that is big or small, our team can craft it for you with accuracy and skill. We create the quantity you need when you need it.

Fiber-reinforced plastics have changed the face of manufacturing across all industries. Designers, builders, and engineers have almost limitless choices now thanks to FRP products. And planes, trains, and automobiles are built stronger than ever.

United Scientific Provides Expert CNC Machining

No matter what parts your company needs, the USI machinists can deliver. Fiber-reinforced plastics offer almost unlimited options in size and configuration. And the United Scientific CNC machinists are up to the task.

Whether you need a single prototype or thousands of parts, our team can get the job done. We have the highest-quality technology and expert staff to create just what you need. Our machinists deliver on time and with 99% accuracy.

As leaders in the machining world, we serve a range of industries, including aerospace, defense, automotive, and agriculture. Reach out today to the most trusted name in machining to get your project underway.

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The Basics of Heat Treating Metals

A group of cylinders in the middle of an orange room.


metal parts on a glowing orange hot oven floor

Long before blacksmiths were making horseshoes and shaping armor, metalworkers knew that if you heated metal, worked it, and cooled it again, the final mechanical properties of the piece differed from where it started. Metalworkers and machinists are still using the same basic process, but now have precise techniques and advanced technical equipment to control the exact characteristics of the final part.

Specific heat treating processes will change the grain structure of steel, and make metals harder or more ductile – an optimal characteristic needed for wire forming. Additional reasons for incorporating heat treatment into the production process include increasing a metal’s resistance to electrical current or making it less magnetic.

Heat treating is just one of the processes used at United Scientific Inc. to guarantee a durable, high-precision component. Read on for more information on the basics of heat treating, or contact us today to learn about all the services we have to offer.

What is Heat Treating?

Many standard CNC production facilities use heat treating. Manufacturers can modify the strength, plasticity, and corrosion resistance of a finished component by opting to include a heat treatment process.

Heat treating metal consists of systematically heating the material to a critical temperature and then cooling it to modify the material’s physical state or mechanical properties. The high-temperature target, how long it remains at that temperature, and then how rapidly, or gradually, the item is cooled is what determines the altered material characteristics.

open door to a hot furnace interior

Types of Heat Treating

There are many heat treatment types, and one or more of these processes can be applied to any given component. The desired mechanical, magnetic, or electrical properties of the final part will define which steps to include.

Annealing

Annealing is the heat treating process by which the material is brought to its critical temperature and then slowly cooled. The annealing process changes the physical structure of the material, making it softer and more malleable.

Quenching

Like annealing, quenching heats the material to its critical temperature, but then it is quickly cooled, or quenched. Typical quenching materials include water and oil, however, gases, polymers, or salts are sometimes used depending upon the final desired mechanical properties of the part.

The goal of quenching versus annealing is to keep the metal’s original microstructure as intact as possible. This consistency is needed if the slower cooling process results in undesirable changes, such as making the material brittle.

Cryogenic treating

Components can also be cryogenically treated by slowly lowering the temperature of a part in liquid nitrogen, leaving it in that state for a defined period, and then putting the part through a more standard heat treatment process. This cryogenic treating results in a more corrosion resistant piece.

Stress relieving

A secondary heat treatment process requires heating the material to a temperature lower than the critical temperature used in the methods above, and then slowly cooling the part. This process is referred to as stress relieving.

Stress relief is necessary to remove the stress within a material caused by previous manufacturing processes. Without stress relief, the part can crack or lose its tolerances upon use, eventually leading to part failure.

CNC machine working w/ a coolant flush

Heat Treating Processes

Each of the types of heat treating listed above can be achieved through one or more different processes.

Annealing is one of the most common heat treatments and is achieved through retort, air, or vacuum processing. Retort furnaces are optimal for the continuous heat treating of small parts.

Cryogenic, air and vacuum processing are often used for stress relief. When used for stress relief, these processes do not change the material’s mechanical or chemical properties.

Magnet and metal nails on light background

Benefits of Heat Treating Metal

Hardening is a typical desired outcome of the heat treatment process. Selectively applying that process to a limited section of a component allows for localized hardening. Creating a specific finish on just the surface of a piece is another example of selective heat treating.

An additional reason to incorporate heat treatments is to upgrade a particular characteristic of the metal or alloy, such as improving electrical or magnetic properties or increasing the toughness of the material.

Iron and steel are the most common heat treated metals. However, non-ferrous metals such as aluminum alloys, copper, and other materials also benefit from the application of heat treating.

Benefits associated with heat treating non-ferrous materials such as bronze and titanium include improving strength, preventing cracking, and improving durability at high temperatures.

Manufacturers and Heat Treatment

The history of metalworking is impressive, and modern technology in metalworking continues to break new ground. These advances continually offer manufacturers improved opportunities in terms of component accuracy, material strength, forming options, surface finishes, and pricing of materials. Advances that yield better components while maintaining competitive pricing.

The industries that benefit from heat treating metals are countless and include automotive, construction, aerospace, and agriculture, to mention just a few. United Scientific Inc. is committed to providing top-notch service to all the industries with which we work.

No matter the industry or customer base, United Scientific Inc. operates under the Quality First banner. That means we provide consistency, precision, and attention to every detail – on the production floor and throughout the organization.

As a full-service Computer Numerical Control (CNC) component manufacturer, heat treating is just one of the additional processes available.

Join the community of Midwest manufacturers, engineers, and designers that trust United Scientific Inc. to provide top-of-the-line services. Our management team combines more than 70 years of expertise and customer service. For more information about the services offered by our full-scale CNC operation, visit our homepage here.

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CNC Precision Machining Best Practices

A man holding up a sticky note that says " best practice ".


A man holding up a yellow post-it with the word "best practice" on it.

When thinking about best practices for CNC precision machining, it’s not just the process at the machine on the production floor that you should scrutinize. Producing the most optimal part in the least amount of time, at the lowest cost, while maintaining the highest levels of quality, means you need to consider the entire organization.

Starting with a full team of experienced professionals, United Scientific has implemented best practices throughout our company in the Twin Cities. Our methodology includes:

  • Creating prototypes
  • Designing for Manufacturability (DFM)
  • Maintaining an ISO 9001 certification and 99+% accuracy factor,
  • Customized inventory management
  • Fulfillment solutions

United Scientific will apply our full range of best practices to your next project. Contact us today and let us put our experience and expertise to work on your next CNC precision machining project.

Design

CNC machining best practices start before any material ever hits the production floor. DFM is the first step in the optimally produced piece part.

DFM for machined parts starts with standardization:

  • reviewing the design for any simplifications,
  • replacing with standard parts wherever possible, and
  • reducing the number of individual components.

Material selection is next, determining the most cost-efficient material that will:

  • meet strength requirements,
  • handle the environmental conditions of the final part, and
  • meet functional needs such as being weldable, corrosive resistant, or heat treatable.

Also, whenever possible, choose material blanks in standard sizes rounding to the nearest 1/8 inch as smaller tolerances on starting blanks may require unique mill runs.

You should also consider the final part tolerances. The tighter the tolerances, the more time consuming and costly the machining process. Therefore, reviewing tolerances to allow for the maximum amount of variability while still maintaining a final working design will ensure the best value in your project.

Shop Floor

Now that you have optimized your design, it’s time to move the best practices to the shop floor. The main goals here are to:

  • minimize WIP,
  • minimize the number of touches to optimize the processes, and
  • eliminate variation.

You can achieve these goals with Lean manufacturing processes and some Six Sigma techniques.

Lean manufacturing tools can range from something as high level as Hoshin Kanri, where you align company strategy to middle management tactics in the form of action taken on the floor. Or it can be as straightforward as incorporating 5S into the workstations:

  • Sort
  • Set in order
  • Shine
  • Standardize
  • Sustain

Lean manufacturing works well as a best practice on the production floor.

While Lean takes out the excess waste in a product or process, Six Sigma takes out the variation.

One Six Sigma tool is utilizing run charts to establish upper and lower control limits for a machining process. Using process maps to define the workflow steps is another Six Sigma effort.

The point of implementing any of these best practices is so the manufacturing process can repeat regardless of shift, operator, or machine.

Business man holding a computer tablet. Background is out of focus, 4-high warehouse racking.

Supply Chain

Lean and Six Sigma are best practices not confined only to the shop floor. You should implement these best practices along the entire supply chain.

Sourcing and Procurement

Using swim lane diagrams to make sure the communication between functions is the most efficient and accurate every production step. This diagram is one way to implement Lean at the start of the supply chain.

Warehouse and Fulfillment

A critical best practice to incorporating Lean in the warehouse is minimizing steps and touches. If the most commonly used materials are located at the back of the warehouse, or moving materials to the production floor requires touching four different screens in the ERP software first, those moves require an excessive amount of time and overhead.

Locating the most commonly pulled materials, the least amount of physical distance from the production floor eliminates wasted steps.

Better yet, implementing a Kanban system ensures that materials are always available. A Kanban system pulls a standard quantity of the most commonly used materials whenever that item hits the low stock level value. This way, there is no downtime waiting on material moves.

To eliminate touches in the issuing process, determine how frequently the rest of the organization needs real-time inventory data.

Once the urgency of the inventory transactions is determined, utilize the most straightforward steps within the software, and complete the steps promptly within the defined time-frame.

Now, you’re assured that the rest of the organization has the most up-to-date information. Current information eliminates wasted time tracking down exact inventory levels or recalculating demand multiple times due to misaligned data.

Distribution and Logistics

Implementing standardized work in the distribution and logistics portions of the organization are also best practices that can lead to repeatable, auditable results. At United Scientific we have incorporated this best practice, as evidenced by an Independent ISO 9001 Auditor stating that we have one of the best internal audit programs ever witnessed.

This best practice culminates in United Scientific’s continuing ISO 9001 Certified status.

Person holding a touch screen control panel programming a mechanical machining arm.

Technology

You might think that a technology best practice is ensuring you invest more money in the latest equipment and software upgrades. There is some truth to that; however, it is more important to upgrade your processes and people first.

Never throw a piece of software or equipment at a problem thinking that is the solution. Put the process steps in place first and then implement a software solution or new machine to speed those steps or increase capabilities.

As for technology and equipment, that brings us to our last CNC Precision Machining best practice area — Human Resources.

Older gentleman wearing a light blue shirt and safety glasses setting up a CNC machine using an electronic control panel.

Human Resources

One final CNC precision machining best practice is to ensure that you have the most experienced and trained staff available. Continue providing training for your team, in all areas of your organization. You’ll keep their techniques and skills at the top of the industry standards. Everyone can benefit from this best practice.

When you need the best people, as well as the best practices utilized on your next piece-part production job, contact United Scientific. You can benefit from over 70 years of experience producing superior quality components at the highest accuracy rates around. Let’s put practice into action and be the best together.

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The Basics of Aluminum Machining

A man in glasses is using a machine

Man wearing safety glasses closely watching milling machine drilling into a block of metal

Whether you must complete a production run of components or need a few prototypes created for testing, aluminum machining is often the first process that comes to mind for metal componentry.

Weighing in at around 170 lbs/cu ft, aluminum, and its alloys, are much more lightweight than the 490 lb/cu ft density of the average steel. Aluminum is soft, non-magnetic, and ductile.

Due to this lower density and increased workability, aluminum is much easier to machine than steel. It can, therefore, decrease machine time, which means an increase in productivity, and generate an all-around more affordable component.

Whether you already know which aluminum alloy to use or could benefit from some expertise in choosing the optimal material for your project, turn to the experts at United Scientific for your precision machined parts in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Keep reading for some more of the basics of aluminum machining.

Chosing your aluminum

How you ultimately end up using your metal component will determine which type of aluminum you select. Some end-use factors to consider include:

  • Does it need to be welded to other parts?
  • Does it need to be resistant to corrosion?
  • What kind of forces will the part need to withstand?
  • Will the material be able to produce the required tolerances for the final part?
  • How complicated is the design?
  • Is the material the best option for all necessary fabrication process steps?

For example, what if welding your component to others is required in its final assembly? Welding is not feasible for many of the strongest alloys. So, 2000 and 7000 series alloys are not an option for this project, as they are not weldable.

Because the 2000 and 7000 series alloys have such high strength and a desirable response to heat treatment, they do make excellent components for the aerospace industry.

Let’s look at another option — alloy 5052. It’s acceptable for welding and has better strength. What truly makes alloy 5052 stand out, though, is its exceptional corrosion resistance, making it an excellent choice for marine applications.

United Scientific works with a wide variety of aluminum alloys for applications across industries ranging from aerospace to recreational equipment. Their experts can help you navigate the matrix of material characteristics to determine the best alloy for your needs.

A dozen different milling tools displayed with cutting edges pointing up

Choosing your tooling

Flute count and helix angle are two fundamental considerations when choosing aluminum machining tooling.

Flute count

Typical end mills for aluminum machining are usually 2 or 3 flute shapes. Higher flute counts do not evacuate chips effectively at faster speeds. However, since you can run aluminum at higher speeds and the alloys usually yield larger chips, the 2 or 3 flute configurations are the optimal choice.

Helix angle

Helix angle is defined as “the constant angle between the tangent to a helix and a generator of the cylinder upon which the helix lies.†This angle ranges from 30 – 45 degrees.

Higher helix angles provide better surface finish and more effective chip evacuation. These properties make higher angles the preferred choice for aluminum finishing.

Resolving typical issues

Long chips, welded chips, and built-up edges are some typical problems associated with aluminum machining. They can be resolved with a few proactive steps.

Long chips

Long chips are problematic as they can get in the way and mar the surface of the finished part. They also pose a safety hazard to the machinist.

The simplest method of eliminating long chips is to change the speed and position of the cutting tools. An additional option can be to employ a chip breaker tool.

A 3-flute, chip breaker tool will leave a semi-finished surface but runs at increased speed and feed rates, allowing time for additional passes to achieve final tolerances.

Welded chips

Welded chips occur when aluminum chips produced during the machining process weld themselves to the flank of the cutting tool. These types of chips are very detrimental to the tooling itself, eventually causing breakage.

Controlling or changing the machining parameters, reducing the amount of heat generated during the fabrication, and making sure you are using the right materials for the process are all used to resolve this particular issue.

Built-up edge

Built-up edges are similar to welded chips, though in this case, the chip welds itself to the actual cutting surface of the tool. This build-up causes scratches to the machined part, an inferior surface finish, and can also ultimately end up breaking the tooling itself.

Similar to the solutions for welded chips, the proper use of coolant is one preventative step. The coolant prevents the materials from reaching a high enough temperature to weld together initially. Higher cutting speeds can be another solution.

Space shuttle still attached to boosters launched as viewed from above

Beyond aluminum

In addition to machining a wide range of aluminum, United Scientific is also proficient at fabricating parts using more exotic alloys such as Inconel and Hastelloy.

Inconel, although much harder to machine, retains its tensile strength up to 2,000°F and is corrosive resistant. These properties make it well suited for extreme applications such as securing the space shuttle’s solid rocket boosters to the launch platform. Inconel alloys are also replacing the steel in the main battery pack contactors at Tesla.

Hastelloy alloys are also highly corrosion resistant, yet still weldable. These alloys are resistant to many aggressive chemicals and acids and suitable for high-temperature and high-pressure wells.

These characteristics make Hastelloy alloys an ideal choice for the pharmaceutical and chemical processing industries and are being used in space shuttle engine components.

Choosing a CNC machining partner

Aluminum machining is a science, and here at United Scientific, we are “Scientific in Process, United in Purposeâ€. We have experts in design, prototyping, fabrication, and inventory management ready to help you and your business successfully fulfill its purpose.

Whether you already know what material to call out on your specifications or would like a second opinion in making sure you have created the optimal part in terms of cost and function, United Scientific will be your partner.

Contact us today to get started on your next fabrication order.

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CNC Milling vs. Turning: What’s the Difference?

A man operating a machine in a factory.


Man standing in front CNC milling machine control panel adjusting dials

When you need an accurate, machined part for your project, factory, or product, you may not be concerned with which machines to use or how a CNC milling machine works. Your priority is obtaining the right part for your needs, in the quantity you need, the delivery date you desire, and with quality assurance on which you can count.

At United Scientific, we deliver on all of the above criteria with excellence. We also like to make sure that our customers are informed about all our fabrication methods so they can make an educated decision when choosing a manufacturing partner. Knowledge builds trust, and we strive to instill customer confidence through transparency in our operations.

Determining the right process for your part-making project results in the highest quality component at the lowest cost and on schedule. Today, we’ll look at an overview of the differences between CNC milling and turning — two divergent pathways to parts, but both with nuanced characteristics that make them the right choice for different applications.

We assist our customers with large and small-scale production projects and deliver your parts on time with 99+% accuracy. We serve a wide variety of sectors. Fill out our contact form today to get more information or request a quote from United Scientific for your next manufactured component purchase.

Analog to CNC

Part machining technology has come a long way in a few short decades. Before the advent of CNC applications, machining parts required a significant amount of manual control. A worker would steer a block of material around a fixed rotating or oscillating blade or would move the saw through the raw material on a fixed surface.

Though the principles of milling and turning haven’t changed much since the advent of the saw, milling machines have. CNC cutting technology relies on CAD programming in the design phase of your component.

The part designer then sets the cutting coordinates into G-Code that CNC machines can read and translate to blade, spindle, and bed movements in 3D space. A technician inputs the coordinates into the device and oversees the cutting process, checking for quality and accuracy along the way and in the end product.

This type of automation has revolutionized the accuracy and efficiency of tool cutting.

Read on for a more detailed look at two CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting processes, and which one is best for your project.

CNC mill cutting intricate angular pattern into a silver metal disk

CNC milling

Part-milling begins with a block of material, referred to as a blank, secured in place on a tool-bed. In CNC milling, the cutting or shaving blade attaches to a spindle. The spindle spins the tool rapidly and can travel in several axes, depending upon the machine capability.

To cut the part, the tool-bed moves the blank at different angles to the cutting blade to form the desired surfaces and shape the design. The spindle with the cutting tool can also shift to add further detailing capability.

A CNC machine technician enters coordinates into a computer controlling the bed position, and the bed moves in space to the same specifications with each part machined. The cutting blade could have a vertical or horizontal orientation, dependent on the part material and the forces involved in the cutting process for best efficiency and safety.

A CNC milling process works well for precision parts like enclosures, engine components, complex mechanisms, or other detailed cutting.

round metal chucks for lathe

CNC Turning

For parts that require fewer detailed cuts, CNC turning may provide superior and efficient cutting results.

A CNC lathe holds that block of material on a “chuck†and rotates, or “turns†it at high speed. In this application, the blank spins on an axis but remains stationary in space.

A computer-controlled blade contacts the spinning material and moves back and forth across the length of the raw material. The blade begins to carve the desired shape out of the block at specified intervals.

Before the advent of Computer Numerical Control, a worker turned the lathe and carefully shaved the cuts into the part with either a hand-held blade or a more massive cutting tool.

Today’s CNC turning machines can cut multiple parts on a variety of spindles. We can control rotation speeds with more accuracy for exceptional results. Different cutting tools and spindles can reside on the same machine, making the cutting process accurate, more time-efficient, and safer than ever before.

Fascinating fact: turning machines come in several different categories, depending upon the functions they perform and the type of parts best suited to the device. For example, Swiss-type turning machines turn and cut tiny parts for watches, medical equipment, and dental tools.

Further, some turning centers can turn up to four pieces on a standard lathe. Other lathes can machine two differing pieces simultaneously with specialized software.

Male worker leaning over CNC machine watching fabrication process

Which application is best for your project?

When deciding between CNC milling and turning to manufacture your parts, several factors can help you determine the best process:

  • Cost per part: When accuracy matters most, and your part requires many cuts to achieve a perfect fit, CNC milling may be the best option. Though the milling process may be more time-intensive, depending on the complexity of your part, it’s more cost-effective to get each piece correctly machined the first time.
  • Quantity: When you need larger volumes of parts that are a more straightforward design, CNC turning could be the more efficient option. You’ll benefit from controlled accuracy measures, so each piece conforms to the same precise specifications in the shortest time possible.
  • Multi-method part: If you require a highly complex designed piece, a blended application may be best, depending on the specifications for each part of the design.
  • Capacity: If you machine parts in-house in your manufacturing facility, you may need a separate machining partner for larger jobs or specialized parts. Choosing a protocol that allows you to scale up, down, or outsource your projects accordingly is paramount to successful results.

Choose an experienced, accurate CNC partner proficient in milling and turning

When the need to collaborate on your component manufacturing arises, choose a partner with comprehensive capabilities. At United Scientific, we support wide-ranging industries from aerospace to food processing and more.

Contact us today to customize your unique part-machining strategy. Our expert staff and industry expertise ensure cost-effective, accurate results with each client we serve.

 

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The World of Modern Manufacturing: Is There a Stopping Point?

A person holding an earth in their hands.
Abstract palm hands touching earth at night on sunset city background.

Modern manufacturing companies across the globe continue to innovate their industries with its ability to morph from impossibilities into legitimate and precise, computer-controlled results. The introduction of the computer was the catalyst driving society to recognize our potential for incredible growth. United Scientific Inc. has been in business for over 70 years utilizing the very best for their customers, call today to get started!

There are computer-controlled manufacturing methods today, known as computer numerical control or CNC as opposed to the labor-intensive and incredibly unsafe practices of the industry’s first revolution. We are now in the fourth, known as industry 4.0 referenced on-the-dot for the integration of computers into manufacturing. 

Subtractive, additive and formative are methods of manufacturing used in the 21st century by businesses depending on their field. United Scientific Inc in St. Paul, MN uses top-of-the-line equipment, including the highly trained quality control department. The quality control department ensures every order is filled and delivered on time, as it should be. 

Types of manufacturing

lathe machine in a workshop , Part for equipment in the factory manufacturing metal structures

Additive, subtractive, and formative methods are the three categories of manufacturing. 

Subtractive manufacturing is the most utilized type of production today. Although 3-D printing has had many strides in the last decade, the cost and manufacturing time have held 3-D printing back from entering the mainstream on a full scale. 

3-D printing is a type of additive manufacturing – adding material layer by layer to eventually build a product. Powder metal is one substance used in additive manufacturing or 3-D printing, layering the material layer by layer until the design is complete. This method is captivating, although too slow to compete with the widely used subtractive process combined with the CNC machine.

The opposite is Subtractive method – removing material from the object the machine is shaping. Removing the subject medium being the most efficient type is utilized by several means, including laser and router. Computerized Numerical Control devices are often used in modern manufacturing for items such as gears, proprietary designs, everyday bolts, and collaborate designs. 

Third, Formulative manufacturing – this is molding or casting material to solidify into negative space, forming a positive result. Resin molds are popular these days, as well as an example of a formative method of production. The resin is poured into a mold and left to solidify, leaving the positive image. 

Products you would see created with these methods commercially use a CNC machine, machinist, and programmer for quality and quantity efficiency. Machinist learns the individual devices they use in conjunction with the CNC component. United Scientific Inc., for example, makes sure their employees are well informed, trained, and certified for their state-of-the-art equipment. 

What is Relatable to Me?

CNC projects or products are most commonly internal parts of a whole, also known as subtractive manufacturing. The general public would see a CNC router, producing engraved wooden signs in contrast to hand-carved signs seldom produced. Routers can create some artistic pieces using a variety of materials. Everyday modern items you need a CNC device to produce: 

  • Your smartphone
  • Aeronautics
  • Military equipment
  • Weaponry
  • Production line machines
  • Vehicles
  • Medical equipment
  • Some styles of artwork

The items listed above are the completed product in which computer-controlled machines cut, lathe, mill, and drill on several axes’ for the unbelievably fast result in modern manufacturing today. Given this technology and the introduction of the additive method 3-D printing, we are to expect surprising things in the future. We may even see flying cars from The Jetsons finally. 

CNC machines in modern manufacturing are rapidly filling the demand of other manufacturers and advancing their output. Integral components created using computer-assisted technology has grown the industry, making parts efficiently, giving the end-user access to products once unavailable. The ability to mass-produce a mechanism is a great leap forward for humankind. 

On a Serious Note

Modern manufacturing is at the beginning of a historical jump into the future. Science is at the forefront of this innovation craze, tech science to be precise. Artificial intelligence has been introduced on a publically usable scale, something we could not fathom without the technology innovations of the last few decades. A computer and printer can be the future of manufacturing, sending objects through a data stream printing on the other side.

We are witnessing the first-ever devices, such as Google Assistant and Siri, the general public can experience in their own homes. These machines continue to learn the habits of its user, sometimes knowing what you need before you do. Environment concerns will propel the modern manufacturer to upgrade and innovate, thus a need for additional development, safer equipment, and quicker turn-around times. 

To Sum it Up

In terms of technology advances for manufacturers and the public alike, there are no limitations. Scientists, innovators, manufacturers, and programmers have created a new world to understand. Our goal as humans is to advance our knowledge, expand the possibilities in our minds, and explore the depth of so-called limitations we used to believe wholeheartedly.

Artsy CNC projects are fun and exciting at home with the right tools, equipment, and flare for computer design programs. The non-artsy person can dive into the world of creating by learning the software and applying it to their potential art! If you require large amounts of product, product storage, or design expertise, call United Scientific Inc. for your manufacturing requirements. Their results speak volumes. 

Continuing population growth will ensure the need for manufacturing far into the future. Clearly stated there is no stopping point for our imaginations. The world of modern manufacturing will only grow – growing into a future we may not be able to imagine just yet. With 3-D printing well on its way to becoming a resource for building, we may see the far future sooner than we could have dreamed. 

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CNC Career Training: Work in an Exploding Field

A close up of the word future on gears

 

Do you love working with computers and using technology to create? Do you enjoy using your imagination to solve seemingly unsolvable problems? Do you hate working just to make ends meet? If so, a CNC Machinist career is perfect for you.

United Scientific Inc. can help you get the CNC Machine training you need to become a highly-skilled CNC Machinist.  

WHAT IS CNC?
Industries worldwide have used Computer Numerical Control since the 1940s, though many people have never heard of CNC.

Before the arrival of advanced CNC machining, various manufacturing aspects such as mills, drills, and routers needed operators. The operators read specifications and drawings to determine the best and quickest approach to create and produce the necessary parts.

Technological advancements, such as 3D printing, led to many improvements to industries worldwide. Today, instead of manually administering every step in the manufacturing process, CNC Machinists can simply program CNC machines to interpret CAD files.

As a CNC Machinist, you’ll play an indispensable part in manufacturing processes. 

WHAT DOES A CNC MACHINIST DO?

Group of young students in technical vocational training with young female muslim teacher

As a CNC Machinist/Programmer, you’ll use computers and the latest manufacturing technology to produce parts and products for a multitude of diverse industries and companies. 

CNC Machinists often use blueprints and 3-dimensional computer technology to develop the software used to create the parts and products used in everything from the aerospace industry to food services.

Computer integration and advanced automation have created a demand for more complicated parts and products to be produced faster than ever. 

If you work at or have worked at, an engineering or manufacturing company, you’ll no doubt work with CNC at some point. With the right credentials, you’ll earn promotions and gain more financial security and stability.

CNC EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK 

The CNC Machinist career field continues to grow every year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “employment of tool and die makers is projected to decline seven percent from 2016 to 2026.†

However, during the same time frame, new technological advancements and innovations, including CNC machining and programming, have created a need for employees with CNC machinist and programming skills. 

Employers continue to state the difficulties in finding employees with CNC machinists and programming skills. Entry-level positions offer immediate employment and an opportunity to attain valuable work experience as a CNC machinist.

The outlook for CNC Machinists sounds good, but success in the field first requires the necessary training.

CNC MACHINIST TRAINING

Education is often a crucial factor in finding excellent jobs. Although a degree or certificate in CNC machining isn’t quite a “must-have,†it does add a significant benefit in helping you get your foot in the door.  

The modern CNC Machinist needs to have the following skills at a minimal:

  • Basic understanding of electronics
  • Computer literacy
  • Knowledge of basic physics
  • Time Management
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Team Player

Employers are seeking individuals with formal training. Formal training may include apprenticeships, certification, or post-secondary training. Many employers, mostly for liability reasons, seldom hire machinists who don’t possess some type of formal training.

In the United States, many vocational training facilities and trade schools have incorporated courses accredited by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills. NIMS accreditation “is the nation’s only distinction for excellence in metalworking training as based on NIMS industry-written, industry-approved skills standards.â€

The majority of courses are designed to educate and provide hands-on instructions for various types of CNC topics. Some subjects include: 

  • Introduction to CNC Machines 
  • Basics of the CNC Mill 
  • Computer Numerical Control Fundamentals
  • Geometric Dimensions and Tolerancing 
  • CNC Manufacturing Shop Management
  • Lean Manufacturing 

Mastery of CNC Machinist and programing training offers multiple options for employment in different areas, including:

  • CNC programming
  • CAD-CAM system programing
  • CNC service technician
  • CNC applications engineers
  • CNC school instructor 
  • CNC Lathe Operator
  • Shop Supervisor
  • Management

If attending classes in a formal setting is not possible due to time constraints or budget, don’t fret. There are many online CNC training courses available, and some offer free video training.

Individuals should ensure they receive the skills and training needed to perform CNC machining whatever training method they choose. Training may include inspection and safety regulations, metal cutting, work holding, programming, and math.

CNC Machinists aren’t only in the manufacturing industries. As automation is a regular part of everyday life, it is not hard to imagine that CNC Machining technology is by industries affecting everyday life. These industries include:

  • Banking & ATMs. 
  • Transportation & Aerospace
  • Cell phone towers
  • Gas Stations
  • Agriculture
  • Smart Home automation
  • Medical 
  • Broadcasting/Television

As you train for your CNC Machinist certification, you’ll gain a wide array of skills, knowledge, and training to help keep the world running at peak efficiency. 

THE FUTURE OF CNC

From robotics to 3D printing, the global demand for CNC-machined products continues to grow as innovation and technology improve the way parts and products are manufactured. 

There is even a growing demand for At-Home CNC, offering small business to enhance its product development at faster and cheaper rates.

Being a CNC machinist can be a rewarding career for those with the right skillset. In today’s technology-dependent world, further automation of offices and factories, advances in the medical industry, and advanced scientific research will only continue to spark the demand for skilled CNC Machinist and programmers.

UNITED SCIENTIFIC INC

Here at United Scientific Inc., we “Manufacture Results,†firm in the belief that remaining “Scientific in Process, United in Purpose,†enhances our success rates. Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, we’ve built a solid reputation for being the best CNC and precision machining entity around. 

With dedication to machining the best precision products, we strive to prepare for future innovations and industry demands. At United Scientific,  having the right CNC machinists is essential to our success. Therefore, we are committed to hiring the best machinists, and programmers only help us stay at the forefront of the machining industry.  

Our machinists understand CNC tasks requires attention-to-detail and discipline. They know it requires focus and the ability to overcome obstacles to ensure we meet our clients’ specifications.

The world will continue to change as technology continues to improve and enhance our everyday lives. At United Scientific Inc, we will continue to evolve, and stay current with innovation, and prepare for the future. 

CALL US!
To learn more about our services, contact us at 651-483-1500, or email [email protected].