Precision Engineering

Precision engineering is a process of designing and manufacturing products with the highest level of accuracy, consistency, and reliability. It involves the use of advanced technologies and techniques to create precise components that meet specific requirements and tolerances. Precision engineering is essential in industries such as aerospace, medical devices, automotive, and electronics where even the slightest deviation can result in significant consequences.

A precision engineer, also known as a precision machinist, is a highly skilled professional who specialises in the production and maintenance of precision components and equipment. Their work involves using advanced machinery and tools to manufacture, assemble, and test intricate parts with extremely tight tolerances and high levels of accuracy.

An example of mechanical precision engineering in rubber moulding is the production of precision mould tools required to manufacture rubber components with intricate geometries, tight tolerances, and complex designs. This can include products such as O-rings, rubber grommets, rubber diaphragms, or custom rubber parts used in industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. 

Precision engineering is a discipline found in various engineering sectors such as:

• Mechanical engineering: This field is the oldest form of engineering and focuses on the design, manufacture and maintenance of mechanical components and systems with high precision and accuracy. It includes the production of precise machinery, tools, mechanical assemblies and mechanisms. 

• Electrical and electronic engineering: This discipline involves the design, fabrication, and testing of precision electrical and electronic components, devices, and systems. It includes areas such as precision electronics manufacturing, circuit board design, microelectronics, and semiconductor manufacturing.
• Optical engineering: Optical precision engineering deals with the design and fabrication of high-precision optical components, systems, and instruments. This field includes the production of lenses, mirrors, prisms, optical coatings, and the development of precision optical measurement and imaging systems.
• Micro/nano engineering: Micro and nano precision engineering focus on the design, manufacturing, and manipulation of structures and devices at the micro and nanoscale. It involves areas such as microfabrication, nanotechnology, precision micro-machining, and the development of micro/nano devices and systems.

Precision tolerances refer to the allowable variation or deviation from a specified dimension or measurement. Tolerances are established to ensure that manufactured components or parts meet the desired specifications and can function properly within the intended application.

In precision engineering, tighter tolerances indicate a higher degree of precision required. A tight tolerance means that the allowable deviation from the specified dimension is very small, resulting in a more precise and accurate component. On the other hand, looser tolerances allow for greater variation from the specified dimension. At Clifton Rubber we work to general tolerances as defined by ISO 2768-1 but can work to tolerance as specified by our customers (within reason).

While precision engineering brings numerous benefits, it also has some potential disadvantages. Here are a few considerations:

• Cost: Precision engineering often involves sophisticated equipment, tools, and processes, which can be expensive to acquire and maintain. The high level of precision required may necessitate the use of specialised materials and manufacturing techniques, increasing production costs. This can make precision-engineered products and components more expensive for consumers.
• Complexity: Achieving high precision can add complexity to the design and manufacturing process. Tight tolerances and stringent quality control requirements may require additional steps and resources. This complexity can increase the risk of errors, delays, and potential difficulties in scaling up production.
• Sensitivity to Environmental Factors: Precision-engineered components and systems may be sensitive to environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and vibrations. Even small variations in these factors can affect the performance and accuracy of precision-engineered products. This may require additional measures or protective measures to ensure optimal functioning in different environments.
• Skill and Expertise Requirements: Precision engineering demands specialised knowledge, skills, and expertise. Engineers and technicians working in this field need to be highly trained and experienced to ensure accurate and reliable results. The complexity of precision engineering processes may require ongoing training and development to stay updated with the latest techniques and technologies.
• Time-Consuming: Achieving high precision often requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and thorough quality control. The time required to achieve precise results can be longer compared to less precise manufacturing methods. This can impact production timelines and may not be suitable for applications with tight deadlines.
• Material Limitations: Precision engineering may have limitations when it comes to certain materials. Some materials may be more challenging to work with at high precision, or their properties may limit the achievable precision. This can restrict the choice of materials for specific applications.
• Maintenance and Calibration: Precision equipment and instruments require regular maintenance and calibration to maintain their accuracy and performance. This ongoing maintenance can add to the operational costs and time requirements.

It is important to note that these disadvantages should be considered in relation to the specific requirements and applications of precision engineering. While there may be challenges, precision engineering remains a crucial field that enables the development of advanced technologies, high-quality products, and innovative solutions to complex problems.

Yes – we can undertake just about any project a customer has in mind. Our precision mechanical engineers and toolmakers have the expertise and resources to address your specific requirements.

We undertake projects across a wide range of industries.  More commonly we work in Agriculture, Recycling, Medical, Food & Drink, Construction and Transport.

We are skilled mechanical engineers and toolmakers and our range of equipment allows us to undertake the following processes.

• CNC Turning
• CNC Milling including 4th axis 
• Manual Milling & Turning
• CNC Automated Sawing
• Drilling & Tapping
• Spark Eroding
• Welding & Fabrication
• CAD/CAM
• Precision Inspection & Measuring

Lead times for precision engineered products vary depending on the project.  Factors such as complexity, materials, volumes, size and workload would need to be taken into consideration when confirming lead times. At Clifton Rubber we would try to give an accurate estimation of lead time at the quotation stage and will always work hard to meet our customer’s expectations.

In precision engineering there are generally no minimum order quantities. At Clifton Rubber we can machine one off prototype parts and mould tools through to high volume continuous production runs.