What is a CNC machining center?

A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining center is a highly automated, computer-controlled manufacturing tool used to perform various machining operations such as milling, drilling, and turning. These machines crank out complex components with minimal human oversight. With the ability to accommodate multiple tools and operate across multiple axes, CNC machining centers are all about adaptability and speed.

What is tool and die manufacturing?

Tool and die manufacturing provides the precision tools industries need to turn imagination into tangible results. With these tools, raw materials get a total makeover, emerging as sleek, high-quality products. Whether it's a precision aircraft part or a critical car component, skilled tool and die makers expertly operate advanced equipment, including grinders and lathes, to bring complex designs to life for industries that demand perfection. Crafting this workpiece from scratch calls for a rare blend of material know-how, sharp engineering instincts, and finesse on the machining floor.

How does plastic injection molding work?

To produce precise plastic parts, manufacturers turn to a time-tested process: injecting hot plastic into a custom-made mold that cools and solidifies the material. First, plastic pellets are heated to their melting point, transforming into a liquid state. The molten plastic is then injected with high pressure into the mold cavity. After cooling and solidifying, the mold is opened to eject the finished part. Mass-producing plastic components is a breeze with this process, thanks to its lightning-fast speed, pinpoint accuracy, and incredible shape-shifting abilities.

How do you become a tool and die maker?

A combination of book smarts, on-the-job training, and getting your hands dirty is typically what it takes to make it as a tool and die maker. Many start by completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by enrolling in a vocational school or technical college program specializing in machining, manufacturing, or engineering. To become a skilled tool and die maker, there's no substitute for the combo of in-class instruction and real-world training that apprenticeships offer. Want to supercharge your career? Top-notch CNC machining, CAD software, and metallurgy training can bring you up to speed - and make you a more attractive candidate.

How much does CNC machining cost?

Material selection, part design, machine runtime, labor expenses, and production quantities all play a role in determining the final cost of CNC machining. Simple parts with short machining times may cost as little as a few dollars per unit, while complex, highly precise components can range from tens to hundreds of dollars per piece. Custom prototypes typically cost more than mass-produced parts due to setup and programming expenses. For an accurate estimate, manufacturers usually request a CAD design and material specifications.

What Is Contract Manufacturing and Is It Right for Your Business?

Jan 22

Written By KIM RIEHLE

Manufacturing today is more complex than ever. Companies are expected to deliver high-quality products quickly, control costs, and adapt to changing market demands—all while managing increasingly sophisticated production processes. For many businesses, contract manufacturing has become a strategic solution to meet these challenges.

Understanding what contract manufacturing involves, and whether it aligns with your business needs, is an important step when planning new products, scaling production, or optimizing existing operations.

What Is Contract Manufacturing?

Contract manufacturing is a business arrangement in which a company partners with an external manufacturer to handle some or all aspects of production. Depending on the provider, contract manufacturing services may include:

Product engineering and design collaboration
Tooling and mold fabrication
CNC machining and precision manufacturing
Injection molding
Assembly and secondary operations
Production scheduling and quality control

A full-service contract manufacturer can take a product from concept through finished production under one roof.

Why Companies Choose Contract Manufacturing

One of the primary reasons businesses turn to contract manufacturing is efficiency. Rather than investing heavily in equipment, facilities, and labor, companies can leverage the expertise and infrastructure of an established manufacturing partner.

Key benefits include:

Reduced capital investment and overhead
Access to specialized equipment and skilled labor
Faster time to market for new products
Scalable production without internal expansion
Simplified vendor and supply chain management
Consistent quality supported by formal inspection processes

For many manufacturers, these advantages translate into improved flexibility and reduced operational risk.

When Contract Manufacturing Makes Sense

Contract manufacturing is particularly valuable in situations such as:

Launching a new or redesigned product
Scaling production to meet increased demand
Producing complex parts that require multiple processes
Addressing internal capacity or staffing limitations
Seeking tighter quality control without expanding facilities

In these cases, outsourcing production enables internal teams to focus on core business activities such as product development, sales, and customer support.

The Value of Integrated Contract Manufacturing

Not all contract manufacturers offer the same level of integration. Working with a partner that provides engineering, tooling, machining, and production in-house reduces handoffs and improves accountability.

An integrated approach offers:

Improved communication between engineering and production
Faster resolution of design or tooling issues
Better control over schedules and lead times
Higher consistency across production runs

This model is especially effective for manufacturers seeking long-term production stability.

How to Choose the Right Contract Manufacturing Partner

Selecting the right partner is critical to the success of a contract manufacturing relationship. Manufacturers should evaluate:

Breadth and depth of in-house capabilities
Experience with similar products or industries
Quality systems and inspection standards
Willingness to collaborate during design and development
Long-term support, maintenance, and flexibility

A strong contract manufacturer acts as an extension of your internal team rather than simply a supplier.

Is Contract Manufacturing Right for Your Business?

While contract manufacturing is not the right solution for every company, it offers clear advantages for businesses seeking efficiency, scalability, and reliable production. Companies that value strong partnerships and integrated manufacturing capabilities often find that contract manufacturing supports both short-term needs and long-term growth.

Call Barton Tool

If you are evaluating contract manufacturing as a solution for your business, partnering with an experienced, full-service manufacturer can simplify production and reduce risk. Contact Barton Tool to discuss your project goals and learn how integrated engineering, tooling, machining, and production services can support your next manufacturing initiative.

KIM RIEHLE