by Chris Anjel | Sep 2, 2026 | Uncategorized
Custom fixturing is one of the most common hidden costs in digital manufacturing quotes. A part looks straightforward until you realize it needs a dedicated soft-jaw set, a vacuum plate, or a 3D-printed nest just to hold it through secondary operations. If that...
by Chris Anjel | Aug 26, 2026 | Uncategorized
Every shop knows the sinking feeling: you win a job at what looks like a healthy margin, only to watch it evaporate because setup took twice as long as expected. The culprit is rarely material or machine time — it’s setup. And setup looks completely different...
by Chris Anjel | Aug 26, 2026 | Uncategorized
You receive an RFQ for a complex CNC part with thin walls, deep pockets, and tight tolerances that will require multiple setups. The customer wants a price by end of day. You have two choices: quote it as-is and hope they accept the cost and lead time, or tell them...
by Chris Anjel | Aug 26, 2026 | Uncategorized
Multi-material jobs are increasingly common in digital manufacturing. A single RFQ might call for a CNC-machined aluminum housing with 3D-printed polymer inserts, or a sheet metal enclosure with overmolded seals. These projects command higher margins — but only if...
by Chris Anjel | Aug 26, 2026 | Uncategorized
You nailed the part geometry, picked the right material, and calculated cycle time down to the second. Then the customer asks, “Does this include the fixture?” If your answer is a guess, you’re leaving money on the table.Custom workholding — soft...
