CNC machining has been a gamechanger for the automotive industry. It allows for rapid prototyping, high tolerances, and efficient production. At Roberson Machine Company, we create precise parts and components that get the job done right.
We’re going to dive into the role of CNC machining from the perspective of the automotive industry.
- What types of car parts and components are CNC machined?
- Why electric vehicles benefit from CNC machining
- Ways Roberson Machine Company can help
Don’t hesitate to contact us online for a quote or give us a call at 573-646-3996 if you have any questions about automotive part manufacturing.
Common Automotive Parts That Are CNC Machined
From the chassis to the control system, CNC machining plays a critical role in shaping the parts that make your car perform—and last. Here are some of the most common automotive components made with CNC equipment:
- Engine Components: CNC machining is essential for parts like cylinder heads, intake manifolds, engine blocks, and pistons. These components demand complex geometries and tight tolerances to ensure optimal fuel efficiency, performance, and durability.
- Transmission Systems: Transmissions rely on gears, shafts, and casings that must fit together precisely. CNC machining guarantees proper alignment and balance, boosting longevity and overall performance.
- Brake Assemblies: Components like calipers, brackets, and rotors must be machined to exact specs to ensure reliable braking, reduce vibration, and prevent uneven wear.
- Suspension and Steering: CNC-machined control arms, knuckles, and tie rods deliver the strength and consistency needed for stable handling and a smooth ride.
- Custom Fixtures and Prototypes: CNC machining supports rapid, cost-effective prototyping, enabling engineers to refine designs without investing in full-scale tooling.
There are different CNC processes used for various reasons in multiple industries. At Roberson, we offer:
- CNC Milling: Ideal for creating complex shapes and slots, CNC milling removes material with high-speed rotating tools to achieve precision and repeatability.
- CNC Turning: Best for cylindrical components, turning uses a rotating workpiece and stationary cutting tool to produce smooth, symmetrical parts like shafts and bushings.
- Wire EDM: A high-precision method for cutting intricate shapes in hard metals using an electrically charged wire, perfect for tooling and dies.
- 5-Axis Machining: Enables cutting from multiple angles in a single setup—ideal for intricate geometries and tight tolerance parts in aerospace and automotive applications.
- Multi-Axis Machining: Offers enhanced flexibility for producing complex components with fewer setups, reducing lead time and improving accuracy.
- Aluminum CNC Machining: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum is a popular choice for parts requiring fast machining and excellent thermal properties.
- Stainless Steel Machining: We specialize in working with stainless for parts that demand durability, corrosion resistance, and clean finishes.
Why CNC Machining Is Crucial for Automotive Manufacturing
The automotive industry runs on consistency and safety. Vehicles must operate reliably under constant stress—heat, vibration, pressure, and time. CNC machining supports this with:
- Precision: CNC tools can hit tolerances as tight as ±0.001″, ensuring every part fits and functions exactly as intended with consistency and precision.
- Scalability: Whether you’re making a single prototype or high volume parts, CNC machining keeps results consistent.
- Material Flexibility: From aluminum and stainless steel to engineering plastics, CNC machines can handle a wide variety of materials.
- Automation and Speed: CNC programs can run day and night with minimal supervision to meet tight deadlines and lower labor costs.
CNC Machining and Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles are built differently, but the need for precision hasn’t changed. In fact, EVs demand even tighter tolerances in certain components to support electric drivetrains, battery systems, and thermal management.
Parts like battery enclosures, cooling plates, and motor housings are frequently CNC machined from lightweight metals such as aluminum or magnesium. These parts need to be heat-resistant and extremely precise—especially when integrating with electronics and high-voltage systems.
As EV technology continues to evolve, CNC machining remains an essential tool for rapid development, low-volume production runs, and customized designs.
Partner With Roberson Machine Company
At Roberson Machine Company, we specialize in CNC machining services tailored to the automotive industry. Whether you’re designing a next-gen EV or restoring a classic car, we offer the tools and expertise to produce parts with confidence.
Have a drawing, a prototype, or just an idea? Reach out online or give us a call at 573-646-3996 and let’s get your project in motion.
