Having a wide variety of machining centres enables us to use a range of materials to create prototypes. Amongst these, we are able to machine plastics, dense foams and all metals. The most recent prototype to be produced was CNC milled from Aluminium.

Our customer supplied us the CAD data for a circular ring, this prototype was to be used as a display piece for an Olympic presentation.

Measuring at approximately 700mm square and 150mm thick, weighing approximately 80 kilograms, each side had to be machined separately. The material was chosen due to its durability. Cast Aluminium undergoes substantial pressure when being produced, resulting in an extremely dense metal, which can withstand years of wear and tear without looking tarnished. This is why it was the perfect choice for this particular prototype project.

Due to the shape and the angles of the prototype, a support frame was produced to hold the part in place for machining. Keeping in mind that the final piece would require a high standard of polishing, our technical team used the most ergonomic machining strategy to prepare the surface. Our programmers used a “spiral” machining technique, rather than “up and over” the metal, as this will leave a better quality finish.

To achieve a superior polished surface, various grades of glass paper were used to buff away any flaws from machining, then finally a buffing wheel to attain the high standard of finish.