Prototyping & Short-Run Production

Prototype work usually involves change. We build to the drawing revision on the order and keep the associated programs, setups, and inspection records organized. When you send a revised drawing, we review it against what was previously built so the next parts reflect the current requirement — not a mix of old and new.

Early production runs often reveal opportunities to improve manufacturability, simplify setup, or clarify drawing requirements. We review those issues against the current revision so changes can be evaluated before they carry into repeat production. When we identify a manufacturability issue, we may flag items such as tolerances that materially affect cost, features that complicate fixturing or bend sequence, or differences between the drawing and model.

A successful prototype should not have to be re-engineered to become a production part. Because prototypes run on the same production equipment and workflows used for repeat work, a successful prototype creates an established manufacturing baseline. Moving forward then centers on confirming the current revision, quantity, and inspection requirements rather than rebuilding the process from scratch. Programs and setups stay organized so a repeat order can build on what was already learned.

Depending on the part, a prototype or short run can move through any of our in-house processes without a hand-off to another supplier:

• Laser cutting and waterjet cutting for blanks and profiles

• Press brake forming

• CNC milling and turning

• MIG, TIG, and resistance spot welding; fabrication and assembly

• First article, in-process, and final inspection

​

Keeping these under one roof means one drawing, one revision, and one manufacturing point of contact across the part.

• Mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum

• Sheet, plate, and machined components

• Weldments and assemblies built from in-house cut, formed, and machined parts

​

For material or process combinations outside this list, include them in the RFQ — we’ll confirm fit during quoting.

• Cut, machine, form, and weld prototype parts and short‑run assemblies

• Use the same production equipment and controlled workflows we rely on for repeat production

• Keep programs and setups organized so successful prototypes can move into repeat production with minimal changes

​

Prototypes are built using the same CNC machining and welding and fabrication processes we rely on for production services, allowing successful parts to transition smoothly into repeat runs.