Custom Machining
Built on a Foundation of Precision
We don’t skimp on quality
Our First in Machining® commitment, combined with our advanced equipment, helps make sure that your order arrives ready to use.
- Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) — Using our highly precise computer-controlled device, we’ll measure parts in three dimensions to ensure they match your exact specifications down to the thousandths of an inch.
- Optical Comparator — We’ll project a magnified shadow of your part onto a screen, allowing us to check dimensions, angles, and surface contours against your blueprints with high accuracy.
- Digital Bore Gauge — This electronic measuring tool measures the inside diameter of holes to ensure they’re the exact size needed for proper fit and function.
- Thread Gauge — Verify your threaded parts (like screws and bolts) have the correct pitch, depth, and profile so they’ll work perfectly with mating parts.
- Frequent Quality Inspections — We complete pre, mid, and post-production inspections for every job to ensure the final product meets your specs.
Enjoy these perks!
Vendor Managed Flexibility
Our one-stop-shop approach allows you to simply add your custom part needs directly to your BFirst Program.
Blanket Orders
Place one large order, and we’ll deliver it in smaller batches over time, helping you manage inventory without tying up cash in parts sitting on your shelf.
No Order Minimum
Order just one part if that’s all you need — we’re willing to take on orders of any size.
Prototype to Production
We oversee the entire machining process for your parts, so you know you can trust the quality.
Custom Machining FAQs
What tolerances can you hold?
We routinely hold tolerances of ±0.0002 inches on qualifying features. Final tolerances depend on material and part geometry.
What is the min/max diameter you can turn?
We can turn diameters ranging from 1/4 inch up to 11.00 inches. Maximum part size may be limited by part weight, as we do not have overhead cranes for loading heavier components.
What materials do you work with?
We machine a wide range of materials, including:
- Carbon steels: A36, 1018, 1045, 1215, 12L14, 1144 (including Stressproof®)
- Alloy steels: 4140 (including quenched and tempered)
- Stainless steels: 303, 304, 316, 17-4
- Aluminum: 6061
- Plate: Grade 50
- Non-ferrous metals: Brass, Bronze
- Plastics: Delrin®, UHMW
Do you offer finishing services?
Yes. We offer finishing services through trusted outside partners, including Eco Finishing. Available finishes include clear and yellow zinc plating, hard chrome, galvanizing, and black oxide.
Can you reverse engineer an existing part?
Yes. We can reverse engineer existing parts by analyzing a customer-supplied sample, collecting dimensions using our QC equipment, and creating detailed drawings using Mastercam.
Do you handle prototyping or production runs?
We support both prototyping and production runs. Our Frederic shop primarily handles prototype work, while our Ramsey shop focuses on the majority of production manufacturing.
Switching to BFirst Industrial has been such a win-win for all of our buildings. We’ve had such inconsistency from our previous distributors that BFirst’s attention to detail blew us away. They are quick to respond on purchase orders as well as special requests. They treat us like family and always take the time to help us to be better and more efficient. The level of professionalism and good, honest business is what drove us to partnering with them. They share the same great values that we do.
Bring your blueprint to life
Tell us more about what you’re looking to make, and we’ll get you on our schedule.