There is almost no industry that demands such a high level of expertise in machining as aerospace. To keep planes safely airborne requires precision, accuracy, and durability in every component, and the right CNC machine is essential. It’s hard to imagine the aerospace industry rising to such great heights without the use of premier CNC machines.
Diversified Machine Systems (DMS) has over 30 years of experience in machining for the aerospace industry. We’ve provided CNC machines for customers ranging from Fortune 500 companies to smaller, individual parts manufacturers. Machines of this caliber are essential to getting planes off the ground, whether it’s for the American defense industry or for GE Aviation—one of many industry leaders that look to DMS for high-quality CNC machines.
In aerospace, production doesn’t just need to be fast, or merely functional. Five factors are essential, and the right CNC machine will provide all of them:
- Accuracy: CNC machines must be able to produce parts with very high accuracy—often within a few thousandths of an inch. This is essential for ensuring that aircraft parts fit together perfectly and function as intended.
- Speed: Aircraft manufacturers must be able to produce parts quickly, as they often have tight production schedules.
- Durability: CNC machines must be able to withstand the harsh conditions of the aerospace industry, such as extreme temperatures and vibration.
- Repeatability: Manufacturers need CNC machines that are reliable and able to produce parts consistently. This is essential for ensuring that every part of every plane is just right.
- Complexity: In aerospace, parts are often complex and include odd geometries. A large 5-axis CNC machine is often necessary.
These are the factors DMS takes into consideration for our CNC machines—but it doesn’t stop there. When working in aerospace, we know that there are a variety of specialized materials that manufacturers may utilize. These materials are helping manufacturers in aerospace to make quality parts, reduce costs, and remain competitive in an evolving industry.
- Lightweight composites: The use of strong, lightweight composites like Fiber Reinforced Plastics/Polymers (FRPs) and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics/Polymers (CFRPs) is revolutionizing the aerospace industry. Planes made with CFRP wings and fuselages weigh up to 35% less and are more aerodynamic, stronger, and corrosion-resistant than aircraft built using traditional materials.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber materials speed up the production process and reduce manufacturing costs. The material’s incredible heat resistance ensures that it does not expand or contract with extreme temperatures.
- Aluminum Honeycomb: This durable yet lightweight material is quickly becoming one of the go-to options in aerospace manufacturing. The honeycomb structure means that less material is used than in solid products, and its strength-to-weight ratio is unparalleled.
Aerospace manufacturers need CNC machines that are able to work with a variety of materials with accuracy, speed, durability, repeatability, and complexity. (The DMS Mammoth, a 5-axis router with a moving gantry and universal fixture table, is an example of the kind of workhorse we recommend.)
At DMS, we understand that the aerospace landscape is ever-changing, technical, and intricate, and we’ve worked hard to provide CNC machines that are up to the challenge. Our goal is to meet your aerospace manufacturing needs in a way that not only saves you time but reduces waste and overhead costs. Our team of specialists will get a machine in your shop that will produce the specific results that you’re looking for.
