Our Software Enables Fast, Accurate Quoting for Precision Machining
At KAD, we believe that prototype machining should be as straightforward as possible. We look for opportunities to make the manufacturing process easier and more enjoyable for clients, from our friendly atmosphere and transparent communication to the specialized software we use for frictionless quoting. If you've requested a precision machining quote from
Rethinking the Manufacturing Workforce: Why KAD Trains “From Scratch”
Hello, reader—Brian Kippen here, owner and founder of KAD, back with another installment of our new series, The Future of Manufacturing. This series spotlights problems we face in the manufacturing industry and what solutions KAD is testing. I hope this will be a collaborative process, and I would love to
Can Custom Tooling Save Time and Money? YES!
Did you know that custom tooling has the potential to save you time and money? Most people associate custom tooling with increased costs and lead times, but here at our precision machine shop, we think custom tooling doesn’t always deserve its negative reputation. While it isn’t the best solution for a single
How to Adjust Your Part’s Design to Maximize Your Budget
Time and money are the two most significant considerations in both prototype machining and production manufacturing, and here at KAD, we're committed to helping our clients save both. Sometimes, when clients receive a quote from us, they'll ask what can be done to further reduce costs. We are contract manufacturers by
What Type of Precision Machining Inspection Do You Need?
Inspection is a crucial step in the precision machining process, and at KAD, we take it extremely seriously. We offer four different types of inspection to meet our clients’ needs: In-process inspectionInspection reportFirst article inspectionFull lot inspection It’s important to bring up inspection requirements early in the manufacturing process so we can plan
Oh Baby! Making a Priceless Heirloom With Precision Machining
At KAD, our passion for engineering consistently transforms manufacturing into an art form. We consider ourselves more than machinists—we're makers who take immense pride in creating beautiful products. Naturally, when we get the chance to work on an exceptionally creative project, we jump at the opportunity. Recently a client came to us
Overcoming Common Objections to Manufacturing Careers
Hello, reader—Brian Kippen here, owner and founder of KAD. Last month I introduced our new series, The Future of Manufacturing, wherein I'll share the problems we face in the manufacturing industry and what solutions KAD is testing. I hope this will be a collaborative process, and I would love to
How KAD Is Expanding Our Network of Material Suppliers
Author: Brian Kippen I know you might be thinking. . . not another article about the global supply chain crisis! But bear with me because while I am here to talk about supply chain disruptions and material shortages negatively impacting the manufacturing industry, I'm interested in discussing solutions. Actual, feasible solutions. My team
Red Metal Material Highlight: Brass Machining
Brass, a non-ferrous member of the red metal family, was inadvertently invented in 500 BCE when early civilizations melted copper with calamine, a zinc ore. However, brass wasn’t commonly used until the Industrial Age because zinc wasn’t a naturally occurring resource in many parts of the world. In the 18th century,
Introducing The Future of Manufacturing Series: Solutions for an Evolving Industry
Author: Brian Kippen Early in my career, I worked for a company with the unofficial motto: We don't do product problems; we do product solutions. That phrase struck a chord with me. I think of KAD as a precision machine shop in the business of providing solutions. When customers submit an RFQ for