Have questions? You’re in the right place.

At PartsBadger, we know that ordering custom machined parts can raise a lot of questions — from file formats and quoting to lead times and shipping. To make things easier, we’ve gathered answers to the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see your question here, our team is always happy to help.

Who is PartsBadger?

PartsBadger is your online, custom parts supplier. We simplify the process of ordering custom manufactured parts with instant pricing, online ordering, and speedy delivery.

We work with customers of all sizes, from hobbyists and entrepreneurs to engineers and buyers from the worlds largest companies. Whether you are looking for quantities of 2 or 200,000, PartsBadger can get the job done.

Through our site, you can get a quote, order custom CNC machined parts, and manage your orders. Check out portal.parts-badger.com to get started!

CNC manufacturing stands for Computer Numerical Control manufacturing. It involves using computer-controlled machines to automate the manufacturing process, resulting in precise and efficient production of complex parts and components.

 

CNC machining can produce a wide range of parts, including intricate geometries, prototypes, complex components, and precision parts for industries like aerospace, automotive, medical, electronics, and more.

 
Yes. We make the process of getting machined parts easier for anyone. Our lower cost and faster lead times work equally well for those ordering one part or 100,000 parts.
 
Our platform has been designed around getting a price immediately. We know that waiting on pricing holds up your process. So we ask you to upload a file and then enter some basic information about your part – like dimensions, material type, and surface finishes and we will provide a price. Submit your order and we will get to work!
 

Lead times can vary based on the complexity of the project, material availability, and production volume. We provide estimated lead times during the quoting process. Some parts can be shipped as soon as next day with our Expedited Manufacturing program, others can take up to 4 weeks in the most extreme cases.

 
Contouring refers to a smooth continuous surface or curved feature of your part. Features that require the part be placed on an axis other than the standard X, Y, or Z axis are considered “off axis.” Cuts at an odd angle increase the part complexity, or require a 5 axis machine. In either case, the machine time is increased in order to make your part the way you want and need it to be made.
 

Yes, we offer expedited production options for time-sensitive projects. Please mention your timeline during the quoting process.

 

CNC machines use rotating cutting tools, called end mills which remove material when they spin. Since they are round, it’s not possible to use these tools to “cut” sharp interior features and the tool will always require a radius on interior corners. A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the radius is no less than 25% of the depth of the corner.

If sharp interior corners are absolutely required, this can be done with the EDM process, but it may add significant cost to your parts. If you would like to talk about your specific part call or email us and we will be happy to discuss options with you.

We offer a wide range of materials as in-stock on our website, but sometimes there are projects which require a material we do not regularly stock. If this applies to you, call or email us and we will check on pricing and availability for you. 
 

We work with various materials, including metals like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, titanium, and plastics like ABS, acrylic, nylon, and more. See our Materials page for a comprehensive list.

 
What is fillet or chamfer and why does it matter?
Fillets and chamfers create rounded or beveled edges. A fillet is a rounding on an exterior or interior corner of a part. The rounded edge or interior can be used to smooth sharp edges, or to distribute stress over a broader area making the part more durable. Chamfering is a common machining operation that uses a special bit to create beveling around the edge. This can be done for aesthetic reasons or to avoid weakness or stress.
 
The ideal format is STEP, STP, however we also accept SLDPRT, PRT, CATIA, IGS, IPT, X_T, DWG, DXF, and SAT. We also accept STL, however keep in mind this format tessellates the part, creating smooth designs into a triangulated mesh. This results in much higher price calculations from the quote tool.
 

Many parts can be machined in a few days or weeks rather than a few months. We strive to provide competitive lead times within industry standards. Need it faster? Work with your rep to see if your project may qualify.

 
PartsBadger is happy to offer advice to assist in the manufacturing of your part, however we do not offer complete design services. For hobbyist applications, we recommend using freelancer platforms to find these services.
 
We get asked if we make anything from obsolete motorcycle parts to very specific parts for a certain brand. The answer is we make your custom parts to the specifications of your design. Send us a file you designed and we will let you know if we can make it.
 

No, requesting a quote is free of charge and without obligation. We’re here to help you get accurate pricing for your project.

 

Yes, you can make design modifications even after receiving a quote. Simply inform us about the changes, and we’ll adjust the quote accordingly.

 

If you’re satisfied with the quote, let us know, and we’ll guide you through the order confirmation process. You may use the online order system on portal.parts-badger.com if you have an account or let your rep know. Our team will keep you updated throughout production.

 

The ideal format is STEP, STP, however we also accept SLDPRT, PRT, CATIA, IGS, IPT, X_T, DWG, DXF, and SAT. We also accept STL, however keep in mind this format tessellates the part, creating smooth designs into a triangulated mesh. This results in much higher price calculations from the quote tool.

Yes, if you need to reorder parts from a previous project, simply provide us with the details or submit a reorder on portal.parts-badger.com

 

Still have questions? Let’s talk

 Our team is just a click away. Whether you’re ready to start a project or simply need more details, we’ll make sure you get the answers you need. Contact us here or submit your part for a quote today.