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A close-up of a complex die-cast aluminum engine part on a table in an industrial setting, with a blurred background of workshop tools.

Draft Angles for Die-Cast Aluminum Enclosures

Intro Adding a draft angle could make or break your designed aluminum box. However, a lot of people don’t know how important this factor is, and they don’t know where to start. In this quick guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about draft…

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A man in an office setting works on a computer with dual monitors displaying CNC milling software for 3D modeling of mechanical parts.

Introduction To Design for CNC Milling

Intro Using a CNC milling machine to fabricate a part is very common today. Even though modern 3-axis CNC machines are very advanced, they still require certain design considerations.  In this intro guide, we’ll explain some common design considerations. By the end, you’ll have a…

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Various metal prototype 3D-printed objects displayed on a glass shelf, including geometric structures and complex industrial parts.

Options for Metal Prototype Fabrication

Intro A well-made prototype can save you a lot of time and money in the future. If you perfect the design before going to full-scale production, you’ll see the best results. For most people, that means choosing the right option for making a prototype. In…

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Close-up of metalworking lathe machine cutting a metal piece that sends out bright, fiery sparks, creating precise machined surface finishes.

All About Machined Surface Finishes

Intro The surface finish of your part should be specified on every drawing you submit to a machine shop. It can determine how well your part works and how expensive it is to make. In this quick guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know…

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A CNC machine precision-milling a piece of carbon fiber, with the cutting tool in motion and creating a chamfered surface on the material.

The Difference Between a Fillet and Chamfer

Intro A lot of people have heard the terms “fillet” and “chamfer”, and they might use them interchangeably. The truth is that these features are very different, and they can dramatically change the function of your parts. In this guide, we’ll explain the real difference…

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A CNC machined prototype in operation, with a milling cutter shaping a white block as coolant sprays onto the workpiece, highlighting dynamic water splashes and flying chips.

Why You Should Use CNC Machined Prototypes

Intro When you’re looking to make a new product, you’ll probably start with a prototyping phase. This includes creating physical versions of your product and trying them out. When it comes to prototyping, people typically choose between 3D printing and CNC machining. In a lot…

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How to 3D Print Light Pipes

Intro Light pipes are a type of optical component that is used to guide light from one location to another. They are commonly used in a variety of applications, including lighting, automotive, consumer products, and home use. But, did you know that they can be…

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Engineer's hands holding a mechanical part and a blueprint for designing for manufacturing, surrounded by various engineering drawings and tools on a table.

4 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing for Manufacturing

Intro When it comes to designing a part for manufacturing, there’s a lot to consider. It’s something that takes a lot of practice before you can get really good at it. To speed up your path to perfection, our machinist put together this quick guide. …

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Jigs vs Fixtures: What’s the Difference?

Intro We noticed that a lot of people use the terms “jig” and “fixture” interchangeably. These two terms are very different and describe separate parts. In this guide, we’ll explain what a jig is, what a fixture is, and when you might use either option…

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