The cost for machined parts depends on many factors. These include part characteristics such as size, complexity, material, post-processing and quantity. It also depends on the particular focus/strengths of the machine shop. Argon Prototypes is very focused on technology investments, allowing us to make highly complex parts. However, given the expense of these investments, we may not be able to quote on small orders of very simple parts. To receive a quote, please email your project details to support@argonprototypes.com!

As a job shop, we serve a broad range of industries including medical, automation, electronics, and much more. However, for insurance purposes we cannot produce mission critical parts for the following industries... Aerospace Automotive Marine Nuclear Mining We may be able to produce prototype or otherwise non-mission-critical parts for these industries. Please send us an email at support@argonprototypes.com to learn more!

As a small shop, our lead time can vary from less than 1 week up to 4 weeks depending on how busy we are. It will also depend on whether material or special tooling must be ordered-in. Pre- and post-processing such as anodizing or heat treatment will also contribute to lead time. For a quote and lead time, email your project details to support@argonprototypes.com!

The part geometry will determine which machine must be used... Our 5-axis machine can handle parts up to approx. 12" x 12" x 8"H Our 3-axis machine can handle parts up to approx. 25" x 12" x 15"H Our 4-axis rotary can handle parts up to approx. 6" x 6" x 6"H

We have no minimum order quantity, however the unit price for a single part is significantly higher than for multiple parts. This is due to the setup costs associated with CNC machining, which include programming, creating custom fixtures, and test runs. The more extensive the setup (i.e. for very complex parts), the more you will save by increasing the quantity.

Our shop only offers CNC milling and does not have any lathes. Lathes are far more effective and economical when it comes to cylindrical parts. For this reason we have to reject many cylindrical parts, however we can justify certain ones that have a lot of 5-axis features and are higher in quantity (say, double digits minimum).

Yes! Despite our origins in prototypes, with the addition of our new 5-axis machine and automated part loading we can produce large orders with incredible efficiency. Our maximum order quantity will depend on the size and complexity of the parts. Please send an email to support@argonprototypes.com to learn more.

No, we do not have any quality certifications, however we are very meticulous about the quality of our parts and can provide inspection reports, material certifications, and certificates of conformance upon request!

We can machine aluminum, carbon steel, stainless steel, and a wide range of engineering plastics. We do not machine glass, wood, or foam. We stock over 3,000 lbs of aluminum bar in various dimensions for the best possible lead time. Other materials may have to be ordered-in, which can take 1 to 5 business days. We can machine pre-hardened steel up to HRC 50, heat treat after machining up to HRC _____.

We take confidentiality very seriously. We do not share customer files outside of our organization and we do not post photos of customer parts to our website or socials without permission. While it is very rare that we outsource machining, we never do so without your permission and the subcontractor is always required to sign an NDA. Before emailing us your project details, please send us a mutual NDA (or you can request one from us).