Manufacturing Guides & Resources
Expert guidance on CNC machining, manufacturing processes, and working with machine shops. Written by industry professionals.
Featured Guides
The Complete Guide to CNC Machining
Everything you need to know about CNC machining: processes, materials, costs, design tips, and how to get the best results from machine shops.
15 min readHow to Choose the Right Machine Shop
Learn how to evaluate machine shops, compare capabilities, verify certifications, and select the best manufacturing partner for your project.
10 min readAS9100 vs ISO 9001: Complete Comparison
Key differences between AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015. Which certification do you need and what does the upgrade path look like?
12 min readAll Guides
The Complete Guide to CNC Machining
Everything you need to know about CNC machining: processes, materials, costs, design tips, and how to get the best results from machine shops.
How to Choose the Right Machine Shop
Learn how to evaluate machine shops, compare capabilities, verify certifications, and select the best manufacturing partner for your project.
10 Ways to Reduce CNC Machining Costs
Expert strategies to optimize your designs and reduce manufacturing costs without compromising quality. Save 20-50% on your next project.
Machine Shop Certifications Explained
Understand ISO 9001, AS9100, ITAR, and other certifications. Learn which certifications matter for your industry and project requirements.
AS9100 vs ISO 9001: Complete Comparison
Key differences between AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015. Which certification do you need and what does the upgrade path look like?
Design for Manufacturability (DFM) Guide
Best practices for designing parts that are easy and cost-effective to manufacture. Avoid common pitfalls and expensive redesigns.
Materials Selection for CNC Machining
Compare metals, plastics, and composites. Understand material properties, costs, and machinability to choose the right material.
From Prototype to Production: Scaling Guide
Navigate the journey from first prototype to full production. Learn about design iterations, tooling, and volume pricing strategies.
Quality Inspection Standards & Methods
Understanding inspection reports, CMM data, and quality standards. Ensure your parts meet specifications every time.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Apply what you've learned and get quotes from verified machine shops.