Design for Machining (DFM) Consultation & Training

Design for Machining (DFM) Consultation & Training

In the relentless pursuit of innovation, where startups and industry giants alike strive to be the pioneers in meeting today’s challenges, the pace of product development has reached unprecedented speeds.

In this dynamic landscape, the race to be the first mover, the first to market, has intensified. To achieve this ambitious goal, a dependable manufacturing partner is crucial, especially for products requiring physical components. This is precisely where we step in—not just to deliver high-quality precision CNC machined components but also to offer our invaluable expertise on practicality and cost-efficiency for your designed products.

Introducing our Design for Machining (DFM) service, a distinctive approach where we meticulously evaluate the design of each part. Our goal is not only to manufacture components but to optimize the design for significant cost savings. Through DFM, we provide expert advice on which features can be fine-tuned without compromising the original design intent and functionality. It is a collaborative effort to ensure that your vision is not just realized but optimized for efficiency.

Moreover, we extend an invitation to dive deeper into the intricacies of DFM through our training sessions. Investing in this knowledge is an investment in yourself and your team. Once armed with the insights from our DFM training, you will be equipped to optimize every design, not just for now but for a lifetime of innovations. The savings generated will resonate with each project, creating a ripple effect that enhances your overall manufacturing efficiency.

As a testament to our commitment, let us delve into two case studies where our DFM consultations resulted in substantial reductions in machining costs, all while preserving the original design intent and functionality of each part. These real-world examples showcase the tangible impact of our collaborative approach, underlining our dedication to being more than just a manufacturing partner but a catalyst for your success in the fast-paced world of product development.

Case Study 1

The following Adaptor’s manufacturing cost has been reduced by 20% after applying Design For Machining principles based on industry standard as well as Kovwork’s expertise.

Adaptor Design Comparison

Original Design

Modified Design after DFM consultation

Isometric View

Isometric View

Side View

Side View

Top View

Top View

DFM modifications that are being applied to reduce machining cost:
  1. Reduction in number for setups: The modified design meant that this part can be completed on a CNC turning machine itself, without the usage of CNC Turning with live tooling (CNC Turn-Mill) or an additional setup on a CNC Milling machine.
  2. Reduction in machining process: Changed raw material from round bar to square bar to eliminate milling process on the wrench flat area. Original design calls out for sand blast so this fits perfectly with the modified design to mask the raw material surface of the square bar, providing a uniform and aesthetic finish.
  3. Reduction in raw material costs: Changed to a smaller sized square bar resulted in a lower raw material cost as compared to the original design.
Case Study 2

The following Cover’s manufacturing cost has been reduced by 40% after applying Design For Machining principles based on industry standard as well as Kovwork’s expertise

Cover Design Comparison

Original Design

Modified Design after DFM consultation

Isometric View

Isometric View

Side View

Side View

Top View

Top View

DFM modifications that are being applied to reduce machining cost:
  1. Reduction in raw material costs: The modified design’s overall dimensions are modified slightly to accommodate the usage of a smaller raw material size, thus generating savings in the raw material cost without sacrificing the functionality and design intent of the part.
  2. Simplifying the logo engraving process: The modified design meant that the machining time to engrave the logo has been reduced by a significant amount as compared to the original design. The original requires very small sized cutters to machine the logo and the internal corners will be rounded as well.
  3. Reduction in number for setups: The modified design included 2 internal radius at each slots located at both ends of the part. This modification meant that this part can be completed entirely utilizing CNC Machining process while also eliminating 2 additional setups. The original design’s square slots without radius meant that this part will either have to undergo 2 additional CNC Machining setups or to go for CNC Wire Cut process, which in both cases, will increase the overall part cost.