CNC Milling · Repeat Production
Holding Dimensions After Anodizing Across a Repeat-Production Run
Multiple related precision dimensions had to survive black hardcoat anodizing batch after batch — solved with 3+2-axis machining and custom tooling to cut setups and control drift.
At a Glance
- Material
- Aluminum alloy
- Process
- 3+2-axis CNC milling, black hardcoat anodizing
- Setups
- Reduced by completing related features in one setup
From the Production Drawing
The Requirement, in the Engineer's Own Notes
An excerpt from the production drawing, showing the section views, positional and profile tolerances, and the "all dimensions after anodising" note that drove the process decisions above. Part number, program name, and personnel identifiers have been removed.
01
The Challenge
Several precision dimensions on the part were functionally related and had to remain stable after black hardcoat anodizing, batch after batch. Repeated setups introduced variation between the related features, which meant full inspection was needed before finishing on every run. Rework after anodizing was difficult, and scrap risk was high whenever a related dimension drifted out of tolerance.
02
OUJI's Approach
OUJI moved the part to 3+2-axis machining so the related critical features could be completed in a single setup instead of several, removing the setup-to-setup variation that was the root cause. Custom tooling held bore consistency across the run, and on-machine checks at fixed intervals caught process drift before it reached a full batch.
03
The Result
Dimensions stayed stable after anodizing across the production run, with lower inspection and production cost per part and reduced scrap risk compared to the original process.
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