3 Facts About Precision Machining in Richmond You Didn’t Know

Precision machining is one of the most widely used, and yet little understood, manufacturing processes in Canada. Precision machining in Richmond, just like in the wider area of Vancouver, creates parts for an extensive range of industries, from agriculture, to med-tech, to aerospace. But how exactly does the process work? Take a read of 3 surprising facts that you might not know about precision machining in Richmond.

1. Hand-Drawn Sketches Are Still Part Of The Practice

Although Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining is rightfully viewed as a machine-oriented process, few people know that sketches drawn by hand are still very much part of design procedure for precision milling.

Technical 3D drawings are initially faster and more flexible to get down by hand, though later versions will be computerized before the manufacturing begins. Throughout the (sometimes lengthy) process of creating a part down to minute specifications, multiple iterations of a product will be tested, with many prototypes being produced ahead of the finished product.

2. Many Industries Rely On Precision Machining In Richmond And Vancouver

You might not believe the number of industries which require very specified parts to ensure they can continue to function safely and efficiently. Everything, from how we travel to what we eat, is in some way affected by parts milled in one of these machines.

In agriculture, as well as technology, medicine, aerospace, and automotive industries, parts as big as aircraft alloys, or as small and sturdy as surgical bone drilling devices can be designed and manufactured to exact specifications. But although production costs are significantly lowered by the availability of these fast and reliable computerized machines, the cost of buying one outright can set you back anywhere between thousands and millions of dollars.

3. Precision Machinists Are In High Demand

This last fact might not come as much of a surprise, especially after reading about the vast demand across varied industries for precision machining. In Vancouver, precision machinists are much sought after for their technical knowledge and skill set, as well as their ability to understand and operate both horizontal and vertical milling machines.

Precision machining in Vancouver is a very practical job, but ideally machinists will also excel in math and engineering. To become a fully-qualified machinist there are quite a few steps in the process, which might also explain why demand is so high.To qualify in British Columbia, for example, first the B.C. Certificate of Apprenticeship must be obtained, then the B.C. Certificate of Qualification, and finally, the Red Seal.

Contact Aptech Precision Machining to get a quote, or discuss your project with us today.