Announcements
Plastic machining is more difficult than you would expect. The technology that is required to manufacture first-class plastic components at a reasonable cost pushes the state of the art for machines, tools, and fixtures. For example, holding the plastic workpiece so it doesn't flex during the machining process is somewhat of an art in itself.
(read more)While there is a wide array of metal coatings and finishes available, the following overview highlights many of the options that are most commonly used by design engineers. All have unique properties that can protect or optimize product performance; many reference a military specification; and most are processed by NADCAP suppliers
(read more)Nickel-based superalloys, such as Inconel, have an unparalleled combination of toughness, resistance to degradation and high-temperature strength. Utilized in aircraft turbines, rocket engines and other applications that demand maximum toughness, they are critical to the efficient operation of these delicate machines.
(read more)Technically small parts are hard to make. As you get smaller, challenges arise. Deburring, machine accuracy and tool quality are just some of the problems that are experienced when making small part features. Protomatic has the equipment, tools and expertise required to successfully manufacture the tiniest of parts.
(read more)Manufacturing job shops typically interpret a material specification of “ALUMINUM 6061-T6” as allowing 6061-T6, -T651 or -T6511. All of these are acceptable tempers, and are permitted for most applications. But, from years of experience, this is not necessarily the best interpretation.
(read more)What is a PFEMA?
PFEMA stands for Process Failure Mode and Effect Analysis. It is a document that states all the possible ways a process or product can demonstrate a manufacturing or product weakness, and provides a solution to prevent the potential problem. The document is comprised of two major sections called Risk and Mitigation.
(read more)The Modern Machine Shop Top Shop Conference was full of new ideas and concepts. The attendees were some of the best in the machining industry, and their insights regarding the changing trends of machine shops were extremely interesting and educational.
(read more)For capital-intensive businesses such as a CNC job shop, staying up to date on equipment is critical to success. Knowing about or finding the right tool for the job is crucial to cost, quality and delivery.
(read more)One of the specialty machining processes available at Protomatic is our carbon dioxide coolant. In many applications, the typical "flood coolant" is sufficient. However, in applications requiring high cleanliness, or high-performance machining such as medical implant parts, carbon dioxide coolant is a great alternative.
(read more)Precision machine shop services, CNC milling, Turning, CMM inspection, special finishing (blasting/polishing)
Laser Marking for most metals for flat (2D), complex (3D), and 4-Axis delivers accurate and repeatable results for two-sided parts. Laser marking for your part in all quantities from one to thousands. With a quick turn around, we can generate customized artwork or use your provided CAD/computer math data.
(read more)Protomatic has long been involved in manufacturing biofuel components for fuel cell and power distribution. We manufacture custom direct-inject biofuel components, manifolds, and covers as well as modifying engines for improved performance and engineering sensor monitoring for research and development purposes.
(read more)Digital manufacturing requires analysis of data from a diverse set of industrial equipment on the factory floor. Uniform, robust communications are part of the necessary infrastructure for modern business systems and 21st-century decision-making.
(read more)Protomatic has the capability to measure texture, form and contour simultaneously with our Taylor-Hobson Form Talysurf Intra. The "Tally Surf" measures complex internal and external profiles non-destructively for critical applications.
(read more)Our 24/7 robotic operation allows the CNC machine to utilize a single-cavity setup and achieve the performance of a manual multi-cavity setup. Round the clock run times result in better thermal stability which in turn improves the quality of the part.
(read more)Protomatic established ISO-9001: 1994 QMS in 1997, and acquired ISO 9001 designation in 1999. Since then, we have aggressively improved our QMS due to new guidelines and most importantly to stay competitive in the industry.
(read more)Using the proper finishing process is critical to any CNC machined part. Of course, one major benefit is the parts just look better.
(read more)3D printing allows for the production of parts with complexity that can’t be matched by traditional manufacturing methods. It can be used to produce impossible-to-machine features, like parts without seams or joints. Complex geometric or organic shapes are often only possible to produce using additive manufacturing methods, as is true for hollow parts.
(read more)Precision is of utmost importance when manufacturing mission-critical Parts. Protomatic Aerospace assures quality with several inspection techniques including an Optical Comparator, the Nikon VMC-3020 vison based system and the Keyence IM-6020
(read more)For parts requiring a cosmetic finish, Protomatic, Inc is well versed in using systematic processes for making parts picture perfect. Included in our process technique is part design/process design, part material and hardness, blank manufacturing quality, tool design, fixture design, machine condition, gauges and technique, lubricant chemistry, and the machinist . We machine soft aluminu...
(read more)Protomatic offers full inspection services with CMM capabilities on all of your dimensionally critical parts. Consistency is ensured with climate and dust-controlled manufacturing practices. Gauges are monitored using "Gauge Tracker" and are calibrated to NIST and/or ISO 10012.
(read more)Protomatic's history of manufacturing custom CNC components and assemblies for OEM land vehicles, aircraft, and space vehicles has been a great source of pride in recent years. Therefore, we proudly offer support components for military ground vehicles, specializing in electronic chassis and brackets, custom connector components, plastic covers, and microwave applications.
(read more)Precision CNC contract manufacture focused on precision components for the Aerospace Industry. Specializing in small to medium sized turned and milled multi axis components.
(read more)Protomatic works with medical OEMs, since we are familiar with utilizing GMPs for Class 1, 2 and 3 medical components for every application. We provide components for optical, dental, and other applications in the medical field.
(read more)For more than thirty years, Protomatic has been involved in the medical industry providing CNC precision machining services and custom components such as laboratory equipment, surgical tools and operating equipment as well as components for the optical and dental fields
(read more)Contract CNC manufacture that specializes in the manufacture of medical devices. Machining capablities include, 2-8 Axis Lathe, 3-5 Axis Milling, Vision based inspection with Coordinate Measuring Machines, specialized finishing equipment, specialized inspection capabilites.
(read more)We help our stressed customers bring their new concepts to market. We have a proven track record of helping domestic customers develop their napkin sketches into a feasible design and prototype leading to a marketable product.
(read more)Protomatic excels at rapid prototyping - the process of converting CAD drawings to physical parts for the purpose of creating conceptual models. We build highly detailed prototypes from plastic or composite materials which can then be utilized to demonstrate and test product designs before moving on to the manufacturing phase.
(read more)Protomatic offers in-house design support, prototyping, production and assembly of custom parts and systems manufactured for many companies within the automotive industry. We have the capacity to handle a single prototype as well as large production orders specializing in CNC multi-axis vertical machining centers, C-Axis CNC lathes for precision turning, welding, plasma cutting...
(read more)The Protomatic team was very active and involved with a number of Quality Audits throughout the year. Trained QMS auditors for internal, customer, and external auditing probed deeply ….
It’s extremely important that your supplier for your aerospace CNC machining is the most reliable and precise in the industry.
Foreign Object Damage (FOD) is a major concern in the aviation, space, and defense industry, as well as other manufacturing industries.
Protomatic is always working to provide our customers with the best quality and value in the business.
The changing demands in the aerospace industry mean CNC machine shops can no longer be content to simply machine components.
When something doesn’t operate correctly or breaks down, you’ve got a problem. An even bigger one is if the same problem comes back again and again.
When GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) is poorly specified or incorrectly interpreted, many things can happen. All of them bad.
Protomatic, a Dexter, MI, precision CNC machine shop, manufactures small and medium-sized complex, high-precision components.
A new CNC cold-spray, metal-additive 3D metal printing machine has arrived at Protomatic and is now in testing and small-scale operation.
The day has finally come. Your new component design has been approved and now it’s time to take it to prototype. But what manufacturing process should you choose?
Enhancing our ISO-9001 registration with AS9100D is another example of how CNC machine shop, ….
In October of 2017, Kobe Steel acknowledged falsifying material certification data about the quality of aluminum and copper it sold in the last 10 years.
When you’re looking for assistance developing your aerospace component prototype, there are a number of things that you should be looking for.
All CNC machine shops aren’t created equal. Choosing the right one can be the most important step in your next project.
The Modern Machine Shop Top Shop Conference was full of new ideas and concepts.
Protomatic, a precision CNC machine shop, will give a presentation on ISO Systems and Business Risks at the MMS Top Shops Conference.
Everyone will be looking up on Monday, August 21, when the Great American Eclipse sweeps across the United States.
For capital-intensive businesses such as a CNC job shop, staying up to date on equipment is critical to success.
Americans have been historically naïve about thinking of cyber security. The concept of “Ransomware” and the “Dark Internet”
Just two months ago, we talked about the goals for Protomatic in 2017. We are happy to report....
The February 2017 Modern Machine Shop article, “Managing Risk”, detailed how Protomatic developed a PFEMA system to identify more than 300 potential failure modes
A lot of companies simply do not have the time to evaluate their supplier base.
Differences of Common “T” Temper Designations Manufacturing job shops typically interpret a material specification of “ALUMINUM 6061-T6” as allowing 6061-T6, -T651 or -T6511. All of these are acceptable tempers,...
While there is a wide array of metal coatings and finishes available, the following overview highlights many of the options that are most commonly used by design engineers.
Using the proper finishing process is critical to any CNC machined part.
Lights-out manufacturing is the ability to manufacture in an unattended state for an extended period of time.
Online data theft is on the rise. You have probably heard in the news that cyber events, or website hacks, are occurring more and more frequently.
Technically small parts are hard to make. As you get smaller, challenges arise. Deburring, machine accuracy....
Customer-provided CAD math data is critically important to manufacturing. It expedites quotations, and is used in the CAM programs
One of the most critical aspects in choosing CNC machine shop is the method it uses to inspect...
Inspecting parts is a crucial stage in the manufacturing process. In order to maintain a quality level...
Industry Trends Lead to Unpredictability Stock markets are fickle at best, and industry is currently uncertain about political leadership and direction.
When it comes to manufacturing technically difficult parts, all suppliers aren’t the same. Far from it.
According to a 2016 Global Manufacturing Competitiveness Index report from the Deloitte Global Consumer & Industrial Products Industry group and the US Council on Competitiveness,...
Digital manufacturing requires analysis of data from a diverse set of industrial equipment on the factory floor. Uniform, robust communications are part of the necessary infrastructure for modern business systems and 21st century decision-making.
Emerging technologies are having a dramatic effect on the manufacturing industry. One of the most important of these is additive manufacturing, often referred to as 3D printing.
ickel-based superalloys, such as Inconel, have an unparalleled combination of toughness, resistance to degradation and high-temperature strength.
For the past 5 years, Modern Machine Shop Magazine www.mmsonline.com has published its "Top Shops" issue where it highlights the best practices of top performing machine shops from a broad survey of the U.S. machining industry
Maybe it was a brainstorm. Maybe it was something you’ve struggled with for years. Whatever it was that made lightning strike, you’ve got an idea that has success written all over it.
Selection of the right materials is paramount to many designs as CNC machining of prototype parts has become even more technical and demanding.
At one point or another, everyone has had a bright idea.
When looking for a CNC machine shop for your next prototyping job, whether it’s manufacturing prototypes for aerospace components or medical devices, there are a few things you should check out before giving a thumbs up.
ecause of the complexity and precision required of CNC-machined medical devices, many CNC shops have added another level of quality assurance to existing standards of safety and efficiency.
Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, continues to gain traction in all areas of manufacturing.
Choosing the right prototyping machine shop could be the most important decision you will make in the course of getting your product to market. This is particularly true for entrepreneurs with little experience in dealing with CNC machine shops.
Many companies in the automotive, aerospace and medical industries have learned that even if manufactured parts are highly functional, they still aren’t good enough if they are merely average in appearance.
Protomatic's status on ISO registration for ISO-9001 and ISO-13485.
The implementation of Best Practices morphed into Standard Practices at Protomatic Inc.. Improving the Quality Management System.
One of Protomatic's strategies include maintaining Computer Aided Machining software to keep at the industry forefront.
New stock system added at Protomatic to improve raw material organization and lot control.
This year's Expo will be held as the Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI. You will find us at booth 410/412.
Short discussion of hot topics and insights from the IMTS show.
Insight on what was going on at the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Sept. 8-13, 2014.
Protomatic was recognized as one of the best at the Detroit Matchmaking Summit.
Being able to see you part is critical. Having a close look gives you the ability to identify problems and solve them.
Brief explanation of the Process Validation technique used at Protomatic for production medical and aerospace components.
Improving communication and optimizing employee performance helps both Protomatic and our customers. This month we are explaining what we are doing to improve with Employee Engagement.
Protomatic participated in National Center for Manufacturing Sciences business forum. One of the recognized weakness is technical training, Protomatic is proactively addressing the need with multipule techical training classes for employees.
Protomatic's specialized capablities are highlighted in the new website at www.protomatic.com.
Protomatic is in the process of becoming ISO-13885:2003 certified, Phase 1 has been completed and Phase 2 is scheduled for April 2014.
Office space addition of 5000 sq. ft. added to Protomatic facility on the second floor. This space can be used for entreprenuers, meeting space and internal training.
Protomatic adds a Mazak QTN-200M three axis lathe to meet customer demand.
Protomatic was selected by Innostate for advanced training for the purpose of new product innovation.
Protomatic is a supplier to industries that require quality critical parts. We focus on that philosophy internally and it is "More than a set of Words.".
Protomatic utilizes a device called a Harmonizer to improve machining performance.
Protomatic has added Air Conditioning Ecomomizers to improve manufacturing area's climate control. This provides more consistent product quality and reduces energy costs.
Protomatic supports Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) issues regarding draft regulations to implement the Conflict Mineral Law. Conflict minerals, materials mined in conditions of armed conflict and human rights abuses are not supported.
Vision system comparision between an optical comparitor, Keyence IM-6020 and a Nikon VMR-3020 vision based inspection systems.
US Congressman Tim Walberg visits Protomatic to get a business condition update.
Measuring small features is difficult, this measurement device allows detailed profiles to be measured accurately.
Digital super resolution topographic part imaging is available at Protomatic, this add the ability to scan and document critical features.
Protomatic adds a multiaxis Okuma LB3000MYW lathe.
Protomatic's first robot targeted for low volume runs that need high process control.
Protomatic added a magnetic style deburring capability for small and medium sized parts.
Protomatic at "Proud to Manufacture in Michigan" conference.
Bill Wetzel- Passed away July 3, 2012, founder of Protomatic will be missed.
Summary of energy reduction programs at Protomatic for 2012.
This article describe a basic outline of a CNC machine installation, verification and validation process base on ISO-13485 methods.
This newsletter describes some of the quality enhancements that are being established at Protomatic. The XRF Alloy analyzer allows confirmation of raw material from the mill.
Protomatic recently procured a Techniks (tm) shrink fit tool sytem. This explains the reason and need for the system.
The tornado that passed through Dexter, MI on March 15, 2012 was close to Protomatic Inc., But only minor interuption of service was experienced.
Protomatic integrated a Renishaw TRS2 Broken Tool detector on one of our new CNC Mills.
Protomatic recently added a Haas VF2-SSYT 5 Axis CNC Machining center.
Simple technques some times improve process improvements. Summarized in this newsletter is a description of some of the many examples that occur at Protomatic.
Equipment addition, Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM) was added with increased performance and features.
Finding a supplier is hard, establishing confidence is even more difficult. This article sumarizes some of the attributes that our customers use to improve this process.
Describes some of the security practices that protect our customers information.
Protomatic featured article in Cutting Tool Engineering Magazine (CTEMag.com) describing medical grade machining of plastic parts.
In effort to support our aeropspace customers, a industry unique web site was developed.
Preparing for the future is difficult. This newletter describes some of our preparations.
This month a Tsugami TMA8-III was added to the Protomatic Machine List. This 8 Axis mill turn CNC machine has 3 spindles.
One of the best automation methods for a lathe is a bar feeder. This unit improved productivity our our Mazak lathe.
Critical to Precision CNC manufacturing is preventive maintenance, this month's article outline a portion of Protomatic's program.
Protomatic has added a Mazak Nexus Lathe; this 2 Axis 51mm CNC lathe offers increased power and size capablity.