The Journey from Prototype to Production
Custom CNC machining bridges the gap between design and manufacturing. Whether you need a single prototype or thousands of production parts, understanding the workflow helps optimize costs, quality, and lead times at every stage.
Prototype Stage (1-10 parts)
- Design Validation: Test fit, form, and function
- Material Testing: Verify material properties
- Fast Turnaround: 3-5 day delivery typical
- Higher per-part cost: Setup costs amortized over few parts
Bridge Production (10-100 parts)
Bridge production fills the gap between prototype and full production. It validates manufacturing processes while meeting initial market demand.
Mass Production (1000+ parts)
- Optimized Toolpaths: Reduced cycle times
- Dedicated Fixtures: Faster setup and loading
- Lower per-part cost: Economies of scale
- Consistent Quality: Statistical process control
Cost Comparison by Volume
| Volume | Cost per Part | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1-5 | $200-500 | 3-5 days |
| 10-50 | $50-150 | 1-2 weeks |
| 100-500 | $20-50 | 2-4 weeks |
| 1000+ | $5-20 | 4-8 weeks |
FAQ
What is the minimum order quantity?
Most CNC shops accept orders from 1 piece. However, costs per part decrease significantly with higher volumes.
How do I prepare files for CNC machining?
Provide 3D CAD files (STEP, IGES) and 2D drawings with tolerances and surface finish requirements.
Ready to start your project? Get a quote from Jingou CNC for any volume.
