10 Common Questions About CNC Machining: A Technical Guide by FIESCO

Choosing the right partner for CNC machining is essential for project success. Precision, material selection, and machine capabilities define the final quality of your parts. At FIESCO, we prioritize transparency and engineering excellence in every industrial component. This guide answers the most frequent technical questions to help you optimize your production.

1. What is the difference between CNC Turning and CNC Milling?

CNC Turning involves rotating the workpiece against a stationary cutting tool, ideal for cylindrical parts. In contrast, CNC Milling uses rotating tools to remove material from a stationary part for complex shapes. Both processes provide high precision, but the choice depends on the symmetry of your design. We offer both CNC Machining services to cover all your geometric needs.

2. What materials can FIESCO machine?

We work with a wide range of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel. Our facility also handles engineering plastics like Delrin and specialized alloys for high-stress environments. Selecting the right material is vital for the mechanical integrity of your industrial applications. Our team can help you choose the best substrate for durability and cost-efficiency.

3. What levels of tolerance can you achieve?

We specialize in tight tolerances that meet the demanding standards of the medical and aerospace sectors. Our advanced equipment allows us to maintain consistency across thousands of identical units. Precision is our signature, ensuring that every component fits perfectly within your complex assembly. Tight tolerances reduce failure rates and improve the lifespan of your mechanical systems.

4. Can you handle oversized or large-scale components?

Yes, FIESCO is equipped with large-scale CNC machinery for “oversize” industrial projects. We can process heavy plates and long shafts that smaller shops simply cannot accommodate. This capability makes us a preferred partner for the energy and heavy machinery industries. No project is too big for our specialized Machining and Welding infrastructure.

5. Do you provide prototypes or only mass production?

We support our clients through the entire product lifecycle, from initial prototypes to full production. Prototyping allows you to test form and function before committing to high-volume manufacturing runs. Our agile setup ensures quick turnaround times for testing, helping you reach the market faster. Request a quote for your prototype and see the FIESCO quality firsthand.

6. What design file formats do you accept?

We prefer standardized 3D formats such as STEP, IGES, and SolidWorks (SLDPRT) files. For flat components intended for Laser Cutting, DXF and DWG files are the industry standard. Clear documentation ensures our CAM software interprets your geometry with absolute accuracy. Providing high-quality files reduces the time spent in the engineering preparation phase.

7. Does FIESCO offer secondary finishing services?

We provide “turnkey” solutions, meaning your parts arrive ready for immediate use or assembly. Our services include anodizing, powder coating, and precision grinding to meet aesthetic and functional needs. Integrated Finishing Services simplify your supply chain and reduce overall logistics costs. One provider, one standard of quality, from raw material to the final coating.

8. How do you guarantee part quality?

Quality control is embedded in every stage of our CNC manufacturing process. We utilize calibrated inspection tools and rigorous protocols to verify dimensions against your CAD model. Our commitment to quality ensures that every shipment meets your specific engineering requirements. In the world of high-tech manufacturing, consistency is the foundation of a successful partnership.

9. What is the typical lead time for a project?

Lead times vary based on the complexity of the part and current production capacity. However, we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate urgent deadlines and critical industrial repairs. Our proximity to the U.S. border allows for faster shipping compared to overseas manufacturers. We prioritize clear communication so you can manage your project timelines with confidence.

10. Why choose FIESCO over a conventional machine shop?

FIESCO combines advanced technology with a deep understanding of the Baja California nearshoring market. We offer the engineering support of a large firm with the personalized attention of a specialized shop. Our binational expertise makes us the ideal strategic partner for U.S. companies seeking quality and speed. Experience the difference that precision engineering and dedicated service can make for your brand.