CNC Machining

If you want to save time and money on your next prototype model, consider using stock components instead of having parts custom-made.  It’s no secret that we specialize in complex projects here at KAD. We jump at the opportunity to solve complicated prototype CNC machining problems, and we love bringing intricate

Looking for a shop to machine a prototype model with thin walls? If so, you’ve probably received some pretty frustrating advice.  Most shops advise clients to design their thin walls within a 10:1 height to thickness ratio. But there’s a problem with this recommendation: by our calculations, walls with a 10:1

Could plastic be the right material for your next prototype model? There's a lot of talk about machining metals in manufacturing, but certain plastics can be excellent choices for prototype to low volume production needs. Some clients use plastic to prove out a concept prior to injection molding, while others leverage plastic

Do you know which type of steel you need for your CNC machined prototype?  Steel is a common manufacturing material that offers many benefits, including corrosion resistance, strength, and ductility. But as with other materials like aluminum, there’s no one-size-fits-all steel solution.  Material properties, cost, and other factors vary from one type

Aluminum is one of the most common material choices for CNC machining services. Known for being lightweight but strong and having excellent corrosion resistance, aluminum is also a favorite of machinists. The material is easily machinable and yields consistent, high-quality prototype models.   But not all aluminum alloys are created equal. For

The post-pandemic manufacturing world is markedly different from any period we’ve experienced before—and it’s mostly due to supply chains that can’t seem to catch a break. From a lack of available materials at the top to lags in transportation at the bottom, buyers are left to deal with unconventionally long lead

Does your prototype model really need threaded inserts?  There are plenty of good reasons to incorporate threaded inserts like Heli-Coils into your prototype design. They’re great for reinforcing screw threads and transferring forces on soft materials.  But for many applications, standard drilling and tapping can be a more functional and cost-effective solution

In manufacturing, there’s a common assumption that short-run prototypes are exorbitantly expensive because they require lengthy one-time setups. And while this assumption is certainly accurate for many machine shops, it’s simply not the case here at KAD. We’re committed to expediting prototype and production manufacturing for our clients. For short-run prototype

When you partner with KAD for your machined prototype model, you can feel confident that it will meet the highest quality standards. We perform frequent in-process inspections to ensure you receive a functional, well-designed part that meets all critical requirements. Performing in-process inspections for a prototype model helps us make quality