Practical articles on CNC machining, materials, tolerances, inspection and procurement. Read the reasoning, compare the trade-offs, and bring the relevant details into your next drawing.
A tolerance becomes useful when it defines an acceptable part and a credible way to verify it. Start with the interface, then budget variation across the assembly.
Useful DFM connects a proposed design change to cutting access, stability or verification. Preserve function while removing avoidable manufacturing difficulty.
Thread depth, drilled depth and screw engagement are different dimensions. Define all three where a blind hole or critical joint makes the distinction important.
A thin wall can move during cutting, after unclamping and again during finishing. The design and inspection plan need to distinguish these mechanisms before tightening a tolerance.
A correct flat pattern is only part of a successful bent component. The material, tooling, bend sequence and dimensions of the formed part must describe the same design.