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Top Six Considerations When Hiring a CNC Machine Shop in Louviers, CO

Do you need to hire a CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO? When you need the specialties of a CNC machine shop, it’s important to understand exactly what the shop has to offer. Will the shop be able to meet your needs? Will you have a good experience if you work with its team?

Do you need to hire a CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO? When you need the specialties of a CNC machine shop, it’s important to understand exactly what the shop has to offer. Will the shop be able to meet your needs? Will you have a good experience if you work with its team?

Before hiring a CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO, use the following criteria to determine the answers to these questions. Following are the top six items you should evaluate as you consider a CNC machine shop:

  • Their capabilities: Of course, the most important aspect is whether or not the CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO is capable of handling the job you have in hand. Does the shop offer the processes needed to create your components? Do they have expertise in the techniques needed to finish the job? Keep in mind that not all machine shops are created equal.

  • Their materials: What materials does the machine shop offer? Do they work with the alloys that will be best for your project? A wide variety of materials are available, but typically only one will provide the best solution for each project. Determine which materials you need for your components, then find out if that option is offered by the shop.

  • Their methods: What surface roughness and tolerances does your project require? Measured at microscopic intervals, surface roughness helps determine how economical your project is, as well as its finish. The tolerance level determines how exact your product must be. If you need high precision and efficiency, make sure the shop can offer tight tolerances. You’ll need experienced professionals with a track record of success to achieve the surfaces and functionality you desire.

  • Their quality: What quality of work does the CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO offer? Are they consistent with their offerings? Ask the shop for samples of their work. Look at previous projects to determine the level of quality they produce. If the shop cannot provide any examples of previous projects, or if they refuse to provide them, this is a red flag.

  • Their reputation: What are others saying about the CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO? Ask for references. Check online reviews. Look at their website for testimonials. Find out whether others are having positive or negative experiences with the shop. Their reputation in the industry and the community can go a long way toward telling you whether or not you would want to work with them.

  • Their certification: Does the CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO have any certifications? They should adhere to industry standards in all respects. Look for a shop that is certified and can demonstrate that their professionals are qualified.

When you need a CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO, turn to the professionals at Focused on Machining. We offer excellent customer service and turnaround time. Our team specializes in manufacturing precision machine components and outsourced machined parts for aerospace, commercial, industrial, and food and beverage applications. We use a variety of materials, such as aluminum, plastic, steel and stainless steel, brass, copper and laminate to build the perfect custom pieces for our customers. Contact us today to get started on your next project.

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Precision Machining Matt Sordillo Precision Machining Matt Sordillo

What Can I Do with Precision Machining?

If you’re new to the world of precision machining and computer numerical controlled (CNC) manufacturing, you may be wondering how this amazing technology can help you improve your current component or product manufacturing processes.

If you’re new to the world of precision machining and computer numerical controlled (CNC) manufacturing, you may be wondering how this amazing technology can help you improve your current component or product manufacturing processes.

There are several different types of machining tools that use CNC systems, including drills, lathes and mills. CNC machines use a computer-generated 3-D model to create an item that perfectly matches the model. CNC machines differ from other technologies, like 3-D printers, in that they work by cutting away material from an existing piece of wood, metal or plastic, rather than “printing” using liquefied plastic. This results in a stronger, more stable finished product.

CNC machines are used today in a wide range of industries to create components and products ranging from decorative wall hangings made of wood to precision airplane components. Here are just some of the most interesting types of CNC machine-produced items:

  • Surfboards: Surfboards consist of intricately carved wooden interiors that include a series of air-filled wooden cells that keep the board afloat. CNC machining makes it easier to produce these wooden cells, making surfboards more cost-effective to produce, and negating the use of Styrofoam that’s included in some surfboards.

  • Aerospace components: There are a number of aerospace tools and components made using precision machining in Louviers, CO. Because airplane and rocket components need to be made with the utmost precision, CNC processes make it possible for companies to mass-produce accurate renderings of their necessary parts and pieces.

  • Publishing equipment: Publishing houses still rely on lettering carved into a solid piece of metal to print books, magazines and newspapers. CNC machines can make it easier for publishers to ramp up production of metallic lettered tiles, as well as improving other aspects of the publishing process, improving the bottom line in a struggling and changing industry.

  • Guitar bodies: Guitar bodies and other mass-produced musical instruments are often produced with the help of CNC machines. Because CNC machines are so versatile, it’s possible to build a series of guitars based on a single model. CNC-produced guitars are more consistent and uniform in terms of quality.

  • Cooking utensils: Spoons, spatulas, mixing bowls and more are all produced with CNC processes. CNC machines can manufacture everything from wooden ladles to large metallic bowls. The CNC process is applicable for products and components made of virtually any material, including plastic, wood, aluminum, stainless steel and so much more.

Focused on Machining recently acquired a DNM 5700 12K Global Standard Vertical Machining Center. This is a high-speed, high-rigidity device suitable for universal applications. It features the largest machining area in its class, direct coupled spindles and linear motion roller guideways. Using our new DNM 5700 12K system, we’ll be able to continue improving the quality of products and services that we offer to each of our clients. To learn more about Focused on Machining and our commitment to client satisfaction and high-quality precision machining in Louviers, CO, contact one of our friendly representatives today.

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Automation Matt Sordillo Automation Matt Sordillo

Key Benefits of Automation

Computer numerical control (CNC) machines are redefining the way that manufacturers create specialized components, finished products and everything in between. CNC lathes, drills, mills and other devices are disrupting virtually every industry, from aerospace to publishing. Today, tools from companies like Fastems are improving the way that automation in Louviers, CO can impact the efficiency, speed and productivity of your manufacturing operations.

Computer numerical control (CNC) machines are redefining the way that manufacturers create specialized components, finished products and everything in between. CNC lathes, drills, mills and other devices are disrupting virtually every industry, from aerospace to publishing. Today, tools from companies like Fastems are improving the way that automation in Louviers, CO can impact the efficiency, speed and productivity of your manufacturing operations.

There are a number of benefits associated with using CNC machining tools over conventional, manually operated machining systems. Increased automation improves accuracy, speed and efficiency, especially in large-batch production operations. Here are just some of the reasons CNC tools are now the preferred method of developing components and finished products:

  • More precise: One of the most significant benefits of machining operations is its ability to increase the degree of precision with which components and products can be produced. Using a CNC production process, it’s capable to create products and components that perfectly mirror computer models and projections, ensuring greater accuracy.

  • Better scalability: Another significant benefit of the CNC manufacturing process is its ability to rapidly scale up production. Using a single computer-based model, a single machine can rapidly reproduce a product or component virtually on its own. Increased automation tools are making scalability substantially more attainable for companies of all sizes.

  • Improved capabilities: Even the most talented machinists and engineers simply can’t achieve what computer-based systems are capable of. Using a CNC manufacturing process, you can push your materials to do things that previously didn’t seem possible. These improved capabilities can do a lot for your business.

  • Less labor: CNC machining systems require limited human staff to help them produce large amounts of products or components. Reduced labor levels lowers the cost of producing each product or component, and also leads to a safer and less crowded workspace.

  • Improved safety: Today, CNC machines do all of the dangerous work that was previously performed by machinists and engineers. The presence of CNC machines in the modern workplace is making the risk of getting maimed in a machine shop substantially lower.

  • Better uniformity: In the past, it was nearly impossible to perfectly replicate a single design over and over and over again. Today, however, precision automation technology is allowing machinists to create products and components that are perfect replicas of each other using a single computer-based model. CNC machines are going a long way toward improving manufacturing uniformity.

  • Lower maintenance and operational costs: Compared with traditional production methods, CNC machines are exceptionally cost-effective to operate and maintain. CNC machines require less annual upkeep and maintenance than traditional machines. Additionally, because of the lack of labor associated with using a CNC machine, they’re much more cost-effective from an operational standpoint.

Since 2008, Focused on Machining has been leading the way toward better manufacturing outcomes. We’re proud of our advanced degree of automation in Louviers, CO. To learn more about our robust manufacturing processes, our highly advanced equipment sets and more, contact one of our friendly representatives today.

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Metal Machine Shop Matt Sordillo Metal Machine Shop Matt Sordillo

The Best Materials for the Best Parts from Your Metal Machine Shop in Louviers, CO

Your projects demand precision quality. Each component must deliver top-notch performance to ensure the success of your operations. For this to happen, each part must be made of quality materials. It’s essential that your metal machine shop in Louviers, CO use the only the best.

Your projects demand precision quality. Each component must deliver top-notch performance to ensure the success of your operations. For this to happen, each part must be made of quality materials. It’s essential that your metal machine shop in Louviers, CO use the only the best.

At Focused on Machining, that’s precisely what we do. Following is a quick guide to the materials we work with to produce excellent results for our customers.

Alloy Steels

  • 4130 Chromium-Molybdenum Steel Bars and Plates: This versatile alloy offers good mechanical properties, excellent wear and abrasion resistance. It also provides greater weldability than other alloys. It is a useful and widely accepted alloy, present in hand tools, axles, gears, sprockets, fasteners, piston rods and well-head components.

  • 4140/42/45/50 Chromium-Molybdenum Steel Bars and Plates: These oil-hardening steels offer high hardenability. They are widely used due to their wear resistance, toughness, ductility and stress resistance at high temperatures. They are particularly good for forging because of their self-scaling qualities.

  • 4340 Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum Steel Bars and Plates: This is the best steel for parts that operate under sever conditions or that require a high margin of safety. It offers high hardenability, maintains strength and ductility at high temperatures and has great non-distorting properties.

Aluminum

  • 2024 Aluminum: This metal offers a good strength-to-weight ratio. Its fatigue resistance and strength make it a top choice. It can be machined to a high finish. This aluminum is often used for truck wheels, transportation parts and aircraft fittings.

  • 6061 Aluminum: This grade of aluminum can be welded by all methods as well as furnace brazed. It offers corrosion resistance and versatility. It is frequently used for structural components, truck bodies and screw machine parts.

  • 7075 Aluminum: Offering an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, this metal is perfect for parts that experience high stress. It is good for spot or flash welding projects. It is often used when the greatest strength is needed.

Cold Finish Carbon Bars and Cold Rolled Strip

  • 1018 Cold Finished Bars: This steel is better than other choices for carburized parts. It offers good machining characteristics and top mechanical properties. Its characteristics make it suitable for parts that require high surface hardness and a soft core, such as worms, chain pins and dogs.

  • 1117 Cold Finished Bars: This low-carbon, high-manganese steel offers quality mechanical properties. It also possesses desirable carburizing properties. These properties make it the metal best for ratchets, king pins, gears and pinions.

  • 1141 Cold Finished Bars: These medium-carbon steels offer free machining properties and greater mechanical properties than other metals in their class. They are ideal for bolts, studs, pins, axles and machinery parts that need close finish tolerances.

Choose the Best

When you want the best materials for the best parts, partner with the pros. Focused on Machining is your go-to metal machine shop in Louviers, CO. We build the perfect custom pieces for our customers. Our experienced team gets your order right the first time and takes care of all post-machining processes and special deliveries. Contact us today to get started on your next project.

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Tips from Your CNC Machine Shop in Louviers, CO: How to Choose the Right Pecking Cycle

You’re ready to dive into your next machining project. You have the space, the tools and the materials. But, do you have a plan? More importantly, do you have the right plan in place.

You’re ready to dive into your next machining project. You have the space, the tools and the materials. But, do you have a plan? More importantly, do you have the right plan in place?

Many drilling jobs require pecking cycles. To get the best results, you must choose the right pecking cycle for the job at hand. Your CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO offers the following guide to help you with your project.

What is a Pecking Cycle?

Pecking cycles are a method of drilling that involve drilling a little at a time. Rather than one long, deep plunge into the material, the drill goes through a cycle of passes, “pecking” away at the material. You can think of it as a woodpecker chipping away at a tree.

Why are Pecking Cycles Used?

Pecking cycles help prevent chip packing and breakage, aids the evacuation process, improves tool accuracy and minimizes walking. The final result is a better completed component.

When Should Peck Drilling be Used?

Peck drilling is typically used at CNC machines shops in Louviers, CO when the project requires drilling holes that are deeper than three and one-half drill diameters.

Why is the right pecking cycle important?

Not all pecking cycles are the same. Various cycles are used based on the materials being drilled, the type of drill being used and the product that is being created. By using the best pecking cycle, you will extend the life of your tools and improve their performance. Your machining will also result in a higher-quality final product.

Which Pecking Cycle is Best?

There are at least five different common pecking cycles to choose from. Different cycles should be used for miniature drills and high-performance drills. For high performance drills use, there are different pecking cycles for use on aluminum and aluminum alloys, hardened steels and pre-hardened steels. A good rule of thumb when choosing a pecking cycle is to base your choice on the hardness of the material. The harder the material, the shorter the pecking depths should be.

What Should be Avoided When Peck Drilling?

It’s important that chips not fall back into the drill hole as the drilling is completed. You should avoid letting the coolant or mist wash the chips back inside the hole. A good method to avoid this is to not pull the drill completely free of the hole as it undergoes the peck cycle.

Another thing to keep in mind is that peck drilling is not recommended when using carbide drills. The brittle carbide can be easily chipped during this process.

Find Out More

Would you like to learn more about peck drilling and its uses? Before you start on your next project, contact your local CNC machine shop in Louviers, CO. The experts at Focused on Machining can answer any questions you have and help you choose the best pecking cycle for your drilling. We bring more than a decade of experience to every project and are committed to making your endeavor a success. Reach our professionals today at 303-922-3076.

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Anodizing Matt Sordillo Anodizing Matt Sordillo

What Exactly Is Anodizing in Louviers, CO?

Anodizing is one process used to increase a metal part’s resistance to corrosion through the formation of a new layer of oxide on its surface. The treated part then forms the anode electrode of an electrical circuit. The process improves corrosion resistance, enhances the part’s resistance to general wear and tear and creates better adhesion for glues and paint primers than would otherwise be experienced in using just bare metal.


Anodizing is one process used to increase a metal part’s resistance to corrosion through the formation of a new layer of oxide on its surface. The treated part then forms the anode electrode of an electrical circuit. The process improves corrosion resistance, enhances the part’s resistance to general wear and tear and creates better adhesion for glues and paint primers than would otherwise be experienced in using just bare metal.

Anodizing can also be performed for strictly cosmetic purposes. For example, it can create thick, porous coatings that easily absorb dyes, or can be used for films that make thick, transparent coatings that reflect light through the use of various interference effects. If you’ve ever seen cyclists wearing reflective clothing at night, that’s one common example of anodizing.

How does the process work?

Creating the protective oxide coating characteristic of the anodizing process is achieved electrolytically. The metal that will be treated, usually aluminum, is fully submerged in an electrolytic solution with a cathode. The next step involves passing a current through the acid solution, causing hydrogen to be released from the cathode and resulting then in the formation of oxygen on the surface of an anode. Once this process occurs, a metal oxide film begins to form on the surface of the treated part.

Depending on the application the part will be used for, the oxide layer can be expanded significantly. In fact, you could grow the layer up to 100 times as thick as an oxide layer that would exist in a natural state on an aluminum part that had only been exposed to oxygen.

The term “anodizing” comes from the fact that the metal part being treated forms an anode.

Parts made with anodized aluminum and aluminum alloys are significantly more durable than non-treated parts, holding up to general wear and tear and corrosion. The anodizing process also helps to protect the part against galling, a specific type of wear caused by the friction of two different parts of threaded components rubbing up against each other repeatedly.

Overall, this added durability means an anodized part can be expected to last much longer than a part that has not been anodized.

Benefits of anodizing

Beyond the additional durability and corrosion resistance offered by the anodizing process, what are some of its other biggest benefits? Here are just a few examples:

  • The anodizing process results in a much thinner coating compared to powder coating and painting, which can be helpful for parts that need to be smaller and thinner while maintaining a certain level of durability.

  • The coating is even harder than powder coating.

  • The process is environmentally friendly, and the finish can easily be recycled.

  • It is a less expensive process than painting and powder coating, while providing more durable results.

To learn more about the process of anodizing in Louviers, CO and the various benefits associated with using anodized parts, we encourage you to contact Focused On Machining today with any questions you have.

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