Fast Programming — Fast Delivery of CNC One-Off Parts
In CNC one-off part production, every hour counts. Unlike series parts where programming costs are spread across hundreds of components, with one-off parts the programming accounts for the lion's share of costs. An efficient CNC program can make the difference between a lead time of three weeks and just one week — and this is precisely where Strobel Industry comes in.
At a Glance
CNC one-off parts in 5 to 7 working days — from drawing receipt through CAM programming to the finished, inspected and shipped component. Everything from a single source.
Why Are CNC One-Off Parts Often So Expensive?
The costs of a single CNC component are made up of several factors. Unlike series production, these costs are entirely allocated to a single part:
Direct Cost Drivers in One-Off Production
- Setup times: Each one-off part must be individually clamped and set up. Depending on component complexity, setup takes 15 to 60 minutes — time that is distributed across many pieces for series parts.
- CNC programming: Each part needs its own CNC program. For complex 3D geometries, programming can take several hours.
- No economies of scale: Fixed costs such as tooling procurement, material cutting and quality inspection are not spread across multiple parts.
- Tool selection: For one-off parts, special tools often need to be provided that would amortise across many parts in series production.
Indirect Cost Factors
- Material procurement: Small quantities of raw material are more expensive per kilogram than bulk orders.
- Communication: Queries about drawings, tolerances or material specifications cost time and therefore money.
- Logistics: Express shipping for a single part causes higher unit costs than batch shipping.
Our Solution: Efficiency Through Experience and Standardisation
At Strobel Industry, we have developed standardised processes over many years that are specifically designed for the economic production of one-off parts:
Efficient CAM Programming
Our experienced programmers work with modern CAM systems and use extensive tool and strategy libraries. Standard geometries such as pockets, holes and contours are generated from proven templates — saving up to 60% of programming time.
Standardised Clamping Concepts
Instead of building an individual clamping fixture for each one-off part, we use a modular zero-point clamping system. This reduces setup times to a minimum while ensuring the highest repeatability.
Material Stocking
Common materials such as Aluminium AW-6082, Steel 1.0503 (C45) and Stainless Steel 1.4301 are kept in stock in various dimensions. This eliminates waiting for material deliveries. More information on materials can be found in our article on Comparing Aluminium Alloys.
The Process: From Order Receipt to Finished CNC One-Off Part
Our optimised process ensures that your one-off part is manufactured as quickly as possible and to the highest quality:
Receipt of your drawing (PDF, DXF) or 3D file (STEP, IGES). Feasibility check and quotation — usually on the same day.
CAM programming and tool preparation. Consultation on tolerances or material questions if needed.
CNC machining on our DMG Mori machines — whether milling or turning, 3-axis or 5-axis.
Quality inspection, deburring, surface treatment (if requested) and documentation.
Shipping — Europe-wide within 24 hours of completion.
Which Industries Do We Produce CNC One-Off Parts For?
Our one-off production serves a wide range of industries:
- Mechanical engineering: Replacement parts, special components, adapters and flanges
- Medical technology: Prototypes for implants and instruments
- Motorsport: Lightweight components made from aluminium and titanium
- Research & Development: Test components and functional samples
- Maintenance: Replacement parts for machines and systems that are no longer available
Tolerances and Surface Quality for One-Off Parts
Even with one-off parts, we make no compromises on quality. Our standard tolerances:
- General tolerances: ISO 2768-m (medium) as standard
- Tight tolerances: Down to ±0.01 mm when required
- Surface roughness: Ra 0.8 to Ra 3.2 depending on requirements
- Fits: H7/g6 and tighter achievable
Learn more about precision influencing factors in our article: Factors Affecting CNC Precision.
Saving Costs on One-Off Production — 5 Tips
Practical Tips
- Check tolerances: Do all dimensions really need tight tolerances? Every unnecessary tight tolerance increases costs.
- Use standard materials: Common materials are faster to source and more affordable.
- Provide 3D data: STEP files significantly speed up programming compared to 2D drawings alone.
- Design with fillet radii: Sharp internal corners require expensive small-diameter tools — generous corner radii make machining faster and cheaper.
- Communicate early: The clearer the requirements, the fewer queries and delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly can CNC one-off parts be delivered?
At Strobel Industry, we typically deliver CNC one-off parts within 5 to 7 working days after order placement. In urgent cases, express production in 2–3 days is possible — contact us.
What does a CNC one-off part cost?
Costs depend on material, complexity, tolerances and size. A simple turned part in aluminium starts at approx. €50–80; complex 5-axis milled parts can cost several hundred euros. We are happy to provide you with a no-obligation quotation.
What file formats are accepted?
We process STEP, IGES, DXF, DWG and PDF drawings. For the fastest processing, we recommend STEP files with an accompanying drawing set (PDF).
Can difficult materials also be machined?
Yes — we machine aluminium, steel, stainless steel, brass, copper, titanium and engineering plastics. More information can be found at Tool Materials and Coatings.
Conclusion: Fast CNC One-Off Parts Don't Have to Be Expensive
With the right processes, experienced programmers and an optimised machine fleet, CNC one-off parts can be manufactured quickly, precisely and economically. Strobel Industry delivers your one-off part in one week — without compromising on quality.
Need a CNC one-off part quickly and reliably? Send us your drawing — we'll provide a no-obligation quotation within 24 hours.