Hello Nick,
It’s great to hear from someone with a keen interest in the intricacies of CNC manufacturing, especially when it comes to the nuanced area of specifying tolerances about surface treatments like anodizing. With over 16 years of experience navigating the complexities of manufacturing processes, I appreciate the importance of ensuring that every part meets the required specifications, even after finishing processes.
Considering Anodizing in the Design Phase: It’s vital to anticipate the impact of anodizing on part dimensions early in the design process.
This means:
– Understanding the typical thickness added by the anodizing process you’re using.
– Adjusting the initial dimensions of your parts to accommodate this thickness.
Specifying Tolerances:
– Pre-Treatment Tolerances: Some choose to specify the dimensions and tolerances of the part before anodizing, knowing the process will add a predictable amount of material.
– Post-Treatment Tolerances: Others prefer to define the tolerances for the finished, anodized parts, ensuring that the final product, regardless of the added layer, falls within the desired specifications.
Alternatives:
– Design with Anodizing in Mind: Specify part dimensions and tolerances before anodizing but adjusted for the expected film thickness. This method requires a good understanding of how much material the anodizing process will add.
– Final Dimensions Specification: Specify the dimensions and tolerances for the finished, anodized parts. This approach may offer more predictability for the fit of the final assembly but requires precise control and understanding of the anodizing process.
Conclusion:
Each method has its benefits and challenges, and the choice often depends on the specific requirements of your project, including the precision needed and the nature of the assemblies the parts will be used in. Feel free to ask more questions or seek clarification. I’m here to help and make sure the information is as accessible as possible.
Best regards,
Attila
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