CNC Prototyping is one of the core processes we run in-house. Achievable tolerance is +/-0.05 mm typical, the smallest practical feature is 0.8 mm wall, and typical lead time is 3 days from drawing release. We take on both one-off prototypes and repeat production batches.
Because CNC Prototyping sits alongside milling, turning, EDM, grinding and finishing under the same roof, parts that need more than one operation do not get shipped between vendors. That removes a tolerance stack-up and, in practice, a week of lead time.
CNC Prototyping at a glance
| Parameter | Capability |
|---|---|
| Achievable tolerance | +/-0.05 mm typical |
| Minimum feature | 0.8 mm wall |
| Typical lead time | 3 days |
| Prototype quantity | 1 piece |
| Production quantity | Up to 50,000 pieces per year |
| Inspection | Dimensional report, CMM on request |
What we make with CNC Prototyping
- Fit checks
- Design verification
- Investor samples
- Pre-tooling validation
Limits and watch-outs
- Prototype geometry is often not production-representative
- Tooling and fixtures are simplified, so tolerances are looser
These are the things that decide whether a part is straightforward or expensive. If any of them applies to your design, put it in the RFQ and we will price the actual process rather than discovering it after the first article.
How to specify CNC Prototyping on your drawing
- State the tolerance on the features that matter, not on the title block
- State the surface finish and the surfaces it applies to
- State the material standard, for example ASTM or EN, not just the trade name
- State the quantity and whether it is a one-off or a repeat programme
- Attach a STEP file plus a dimensioned PDF drawing
Frequently asked questions
What tolerance can you achieve with CNC Prototyping?
+/-0.05 mm typical, with the smallest practical feature at 0.8 mm wall. Tighter tolerance on individual features is possible with a secondary operation such as grinding, honing or lapping.
How long does CNC Prototyping take?
3 days is normal. First-time parts need programming, which is included in that estimate. Add 3 to 5 days if a surface finish or heat treatment is involved.
Do you do CNC Prototyping in-house or subcontract it?
In-house. We machine, finish and inspect in our own facility, which is why we can commit to a date and to a tolerance without relying on a third party.
What is the minimum order for CNC Prototyping?
One piece. There is no formal minimum, but the setup cost dominates below about 20 pieces, so unit price drops sharply once the batch is large enough to amortise programming and fixturing.
Related pages
- Capabilities — the full index for this section.
- Rapid Prototyping: CNC vs Casting vs 3D Printing
- Low-Volume CNC Production: 50 to 5,000 Parts
- Deburring and Polishing Service
- Contract CNC Manufacturing for OEM Builders
- Instant CNC quote
- Tolerance quick reference
- Frequently asked questions
Get a price for your part
Send a STEP file and a drawing with tolerances, material and quantity. We quote within one working day and machine in our own facility in Shenzhen — milling, turning, EDM, grinding and finishing under one roof, no trading middleman.
Start an instant quote or send your drawings directly. English-speaking engineering support, DFM feedback before you commit to a batch.