Close Tolerance Machining: Design Process Control and Inspection
Learn when tight tolerances are truly needed, how to specify them properly with GD&T and functional datums, and which design choices raise production risk.
October 30, 2026
We have distilled the essence of our extensive experience in the manufacturing sector. Here, we generously share in-depth industry insights, valuable tips and hard-earned knowledge that we have carefully accumulated over the years to help you in this dynamic field.
Learn when tight tolerances are truly needed, how to specify them properly with GD&T and functional datums, and which design choices raise production risk.
Radial grooving cuts circumferential grooves on turned parts, covering both internal and external variants. It differs from face grooving and supports common uses such as O-ring seats, snap-ring slots and thread reliefs. Walk through its standard machining sequence, core design
Bevels are angled edge features widely used on CNC machined parts. Understand how they differ from radii and chamfers, and the correct way to specify them on engineering drawings. The piece walks through how bevels get machined, plus critical DFM
CMM inspection uses a coordinate measuring machine to collect three-dimensional measurement data from a part and compare the results with the dimensions, geometry, and tolerances specified in the engineering drawing or CAD model. This data helps determine whether the inspected
This lathe tooling guide covers cutting inserts, tool holders and boring bars for metal turning. It runs through tool types for external turning, facing, boring, grooving, threading and knurling, alongside tool materials. Follow a practical five-step selection workflow, grasp tool
Sinker EDM uses spark erosion to machine cavities in hard metals. This guide helps pick the process based on part geometry and tool access. It explores how sinker EDM forms cavities, why electrodes factor into part design, and when this
