Small metallic parts production in industry: quality requirements

Production of small metallic parts represent a minimal portion of manufactured products like home appliances, cars or hydraulic systems. Even so, it ensures business continuity, security and quality, making the difference between a system that works and one that fails.

What are the quality requirements of small metallic parts? We’ll see in this article.

What is small metallic part production and why is it important

Small metallic part production includes all small dimension components – such as screws, bushings, pins, compasses, washers, spacers and fittings – which, although almost invisible to the end user, are structural and functional elements indispensable in a wide range of industrial applications.

What are these small parts used for?

To ensure fastening, movement, hold, connection within systems.

Or more simply put, to guarantee precision, reliability and repeatability within production processes in which even the slightest dimensional change can compromise the entire assembly or reduce the useful life of the product.

Also read “Precision milling in household appliances: useful information”

Precision component manufacturing, between dimensional precision and tolerances

To simplify, we can identify two main quality requirements: dimensional precision and tolerances.

Dimensional precision: is, without a doubt, one of the fundamental requirements since these components must perfectly integrate into complex and highly specialised mechanical systems. Each piece must respect extremely precise measurements, defined during the design phase through technical designs and 3D models. Even minimal deviations can compromise correct assembly, generate undesired play, increase wear or compromise the security of the entire device.
Tolerances: closely connected to precision, tolerances define the acceptable margin of error from the nominal measurement. In the production of small metal parts, these tolerances are often on the order of hundredths or thousandths of a millimetre: this requires that highly advanced turning, milling and grinding technologies be respected in order to be repeatable on large production volumes. The ability to maintain tight tolerances does not depend only on the CNC machine used, but also on the stability of the materials, the control of vibrations, the quality of the tools and the skill of the operator.

The management of tolerances is not a minor technical detail: it is one qualitative standard that determines the competitiveness of the producer and the excellence of the result.

Materials and treatments: choose the correct composition

The choice of materials and surface treatments is another important aspect.

In fact, we know that each sector requires specific properties: mechanical resistance, lightness, conductivity, anti-corrosion or thermal stability.

Stainless and steel alloys are among the most used materials thanks to their good workability and the capacity to withstand heavy conditions.

Lightweight alloys, like aluminium, offer advantages in terms of reduced weight and optimum heat conductivity, making them ideal for applications in which weight is a priority.

Parts in brass are particularly indicated for connectors, valves and aesthetic components.

High-performance plastics, however, find application in contexts that require electrical insulation, low friction or chemical resistance.

Surface treatments – like galvanisation, chrome plating or burnishing – complete the functionality of the material, improving protection, hardness and the aesthetic aspect.

Choosing the correct pairing of material and treatment means guaranteeing dependability, security and durability, reducing the risk of malfunction and optimising costs.

Also read “Metal tempering in small part production: when is it necessary”

Quality control for milled parts

Quality is the result of rigorous controls: the accurate verification of tolerances, geometry and surface finish is the phase of the process that allows the avoidance of defects that could compromise the entire assembly or reduce the useful life of the final product.

Advanced measuring instruments such as three-dimensional measuring machines (CMMs), optical comparators, profile projectors, roughness meters and laser systems are used to detect even slight deviations from the defined standard. These technologies allow rapid, repeatable and documentable checks, guaranteeing the client complete full traceability and objective controls on each production lot.

A further level of quality derives from the implementation of procedures based on standards like the ISO 9001, that certify consistency in processes and a systematic approach to continuous improvement.

Quality of the product, trustworthiness of the partner

Choosing a trustworthy partner means evaluating technical skills, quality of processes and the ability to guarantee production continuity.

Experience, transparency and support in the design phase allow cost and time optimisation, guaranteeing components that are dependable, high performing and compliant with required industry standards.