In an increasingly competitive and quality-driven manufacturing environment, CNC turning remains one of the key processes for producing precision mechanical components and subcontracted machining services.
Despite advances in additive manufacturing and other innovative technologies, turning with machine tools remains essential when it comes to achieving high dimensional accuracy, flawless surface finishes, and complex geometries — all while optimizing time and cost.
Let’s explore why subcontracted CNC turning is still a cornerstone for many companies, and how to choose the ideal partner for this type of machining — from precision metal parts to custom-designed turned components.
In the world of precision mechanics, many components still require rotationally symmetrical operations or geometries that only a lathe can deliver with the necessary accuracy.
Moreover, precision turning allows for tight tolerances, excellent surface finishes, and, thanks to modern CNC technology, the integration of complex operations into a single machining cycle (threading, drilling, milling, 3D profiling).
This versatility makes CNC turning indispensable in sectors such as:
Automotive
HVAC and sanitary
Medical industry
General mechanical and plant engineering
Aerospace and defense
The use of numerical control offers several benefits:
Higher repeatability and machining precision
Optimized cycle times, even for medium-to-large production batches
Ability to perform complex mechanical processes in a single cycle
Greater production flexibility: quick changeovers between parts
Reduced error margins thanks to automated operations
Not all CNC turning suppliers are the same. Here are some key criteria to evaluate:
Technology and Machine Fleet
A modern, diversified fleet — including sliding headstock lathes, multi-turret, and multitasking CNC machines — ensures a broader range of operations with optimized time and cost.
Machinable Materials and Technical Expertise
The ideal partner should be capable of working with various materials: brass (standard and low-lead), alloy and stainless steels, aluminum, special alloys, technical plastics — and must know the best strategies for each.
Experience and Know-How
Technology alone isn’t enough: an experienced team is essential to manage complex parts and propose solutions with a focus on industrialization and production optimization.
Precision and Quality
Guaranteed tolerances, in-line and final inspections, and the ability to document supply quality are must-haves.
Service and Consulting
A true partner goes beyond execution — supporting the client during the design phase and offering expert advice to improve manufacturability.
Logistics Reliability and On-Time Delivery
Reliable lead times, transparent planning, and flexible logistics to meet production needs are essential for long-term collaboration.
At FOMA, CNC turning is at the core of what we do. We work every day to deliver reliable, flexible, and high-quality solutions — building partnerships founded on trust and results.
Need custom-turned components for your next project? Contact us for a personalized consultation.