Learn how to design and manufacture CNC small parts with tight tolerances, the right materials, and reliable DFM practices. When your design demands precision components measured in millimeters (or smaller), CNC machining delivers the accuracy required to kee

What is 5-axis CNC machining?  Five-axis CNC machining is a type of computer-controlled manufacturing where the cutting tool moves along three linear axes (X, Y, Z) and two rotational axes to shape a part. This allows the tool to reach multiple faces and angles in one go. Standard CNC machin

An interesting trend popped up in a recent study of high-performing CNC shops: Many have greatly improved the efficiency of their machining processes by switching from a Vertical Machining Center (VMC) to a Horizontal Machining Center (HMC). Read More Us

Stecker Machine Company, IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 certified, high-precision CNC machining company, recently completed a 77,700-square-foot addition to the company’s second facility to meet growing customer demand for high-quality, accurate machining and assembly. The Butler® pre-engineered steel str

What was it about this article’s title that grabbed you? You must be either currently in or interested in CNC manufacturing. With demand sky high and modern CNC machine shops being as safe, clean, and worker-friendly as ever, it’s a smart career path that pays better than many other jobs. Before ju

Involved in the CNC machining market? Take a quick look at our CNC machining industry outlook for 2020. What are Customer Expectations for 2020? As the economy eases down from the recent bullish business cycle, customers are pulling back slightly. They’re tightening their belts a bit. A year ago, t

Pre-programmed computer software dictates the movements of a milling machine, lathe, robot, or other types of machines. Precision can be incredible — cutting to 0.001” or about 1/4 the width of a human hair — and their repeatability makes CNC machining so efficient. That complexity may intimidate

Does family ownership really matter to the average worker? More specifically, does it matter in a machine shop environment? Yes, Employees of most family-owned brands are generally happier and more productive. They feel better about their jobs, and it shows in their work.  So, does that translate t

No one appreciates having “the right tool for the job” more than CNC machine operators. Yet, in order for any tool to do its job properly, the right CNC fixture (also called a CNC workholding fixture) has to secure and stabilize whatever piece is being worked on during CNC machining. Fixturing is c

Top performing CNC Tool Cribs maximize cut tooling effectiveness while minimizing spending on inventory and overhead. There is a fine line to walk between having the right cut tools ready at all times to keep CNC spindles turning and minimizing spending.  What is a CNC Toolcrib? The CNC tool cri

A year ago, I shared my thoughts on what 2020 would look like in the CNC machining industry. Sure, some of those predictions did happen, but a global pandemic turned many things upside down. As the country still battles COVID-19 with a vaccine rollout and continued social distancing, it’s interesti

You may have a great working knowledge of how custom CNC machining works: Its smart use of technology and cutting-edge equipment and robotics. Its engineers who help with design for manufacturing and design/fixture building. Its programmed G-code and M-code, allowing for correct, repeatable part ma

The precision of a CNC machine is incredibly impressive: cutting to 0.001” (about 1/4 the width of a human hair). That capability may lead those unfamiliar with CNC machining to assume that it is advanced equipment that makes a CNC machine shop perform well. Not so fast! There’s complexity within a

What pops to mind when you think of CNC machining? Metal. Castings. Precision. Engineering. Robots.  Not “inventory management,” huh? Well, perhaps it should. Because nothing gets done within a CNC machine shop without rock-solid warehouse inventory management. In fact, if a shop doesn’t have excep

When it comes to high-quality machining, precision is the key to part quality. And the key to making that process cost-effective is repeatability, so every part can be counted on to perform as expected. CNC precision machining, or computer numerical control machining, is nearly as common as a hamme

The goal of modern CNC milling is to transform materials such as metal castings into finished, usable parts. That goal is only achievable by using incredibly precise CNC milling machines. Computer software is the brains of a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machine, controlling the machine

There’s no arguing: CNC machines are incredibly accurate. Their ability to precision cut ¼ the width of a human hair (0.001”), makes them essential in any modern machine shop. Yet, simply having the ability to perform such feats is only half the story. The machines on their own are useless without

As its name clearly states, CNC (computer numerical control) is automated control of machining tools using a computer. Yet, that doesn’t just happen; it requires the right coded programmed instruction. So, what is G-code? What is M-code? And how do G-code and M-code programming actually work? This

The metalworking industry needs more CNC operators. This rewarding career appeals to people who have a broad skill set: a good eye for detail, math, mechanical design, and the ability to read technical drawings. CNC operators use a combination of brains and hands-on work to properly transform a met

Culture is the soul of a company. It’s what motivates people to do great work each day (no, it’s not money or health benefits or time off … although those are ALL very important). It’s true: Over 50% of workers said that company culture is more important than salary when it comes to job satisfactio