Automotive CNC Machining
From single prototypes to production runs of 10,000+, Clarent Precision delivers CNC machined components for the automotive industry. Competitive pricing through lean manufacturing, with the quality and consistency your application demands.
Get a QuoteAutomotive Machining Expertise
Clarent Precision produces precision CNC machined components for automotive manufacturers, tier suppliers and specialist vehicle builders across the UK. Our combination of high-performance CNC milling and turning centres allows us to handle everything from complex one-off prototypes to repeat production batches of thousands.
Our competitive advantage for automotive clients lies in efficiency. Full CAD/CAM simulation allows us to optimise machining strategies before cutting, reducing cycle times and material waste. This translates directly into competitive pricing without compromising on quality or tolerances.
As a family-run business established in 2011, we offer the responsiveness that larger machining houses cannot match. You deal directly with the people managing your project, which means faster communication, quicker turnaround on quotes and the flexibility to adapt when specifications change. Our ISO 9001 certification provides the quality framework that automotive supply chains require.
Materials for Automotive Applications
We machine the full range of materials used in automotive components, from lightweight aluminium for performance applications through to hardwearing steels for drivetrain parts.
We also machine mild steel, engineering plastics and specialist alloys. For high-performance automotive applications requiring exotic materials such as Titanium or Inconel, our super alloy capability gives you access to materials that most sub-contract machinists cannot work with.
CNC Machining Capabilities
Our facility is equipped with a range of high-performance CNC machining centres and lathes designed for the volumes and tolerances that automotive work demands.
- CNC Milling: 3 and 4 axis machining up to 762mm x 406mm x 508mm. From basic 2D profiles to complex 3D geometries with full CAD/CAM simulation.
- CNC Turning: Live tooling lathes eliminating the need for secondary setups. Complete mill-turn operations in a single fixture, reducing lead times and cost. Capacity up to Ø279mm x 413mm.
- Batch Sizes: Prototype quantities through to production runs of 10,000 on lathes and 1,000+ on machining centres.
- CAD/CAM Simulation: We interrogate your models to verify all dimensions before cutting. Simulations allow us to provide accurate pricing and lead times upfront.
- Post-Production: Heat treatment, plating, anodising, painting and specialist surface finishes through our approved sub-contractor network.
Quality & Documentation
Consistent quality across production runs is essential for automotive applications. Our ISO 9001 certified quality management system ensures every batch meets specification.
- Inspection: Temperature-controlled inspection department with CMM, micrometers, bore gauges and height gauges.
- Certificates of Conformity: Provided as standard with every order.
- First Article Inspection Reports: Detailed FAIR documentation for new components.
- Material Traceability: Full material certification and traceability from stock to finished part.
- CMM Reports: Dimensional inspection reports available on request.
Automotive Component Examples
A selection of precision machined components produced for automotive clients.
Aluminium automotive component
Precision milled component
Frequently Asked Questions
What production volumes can you handle?
Our CNC lathes can efficiently produce batch sizes up to 10,000 parts, and our milling centres handle runs up to 1,000+. We also offer stockholding and call-off arrangements, allowing you to place a single order and schedule deliveries over time. This reduces your inventory costs while ensuring parts are always available when needed.
Can you take a project from prototype to production?
Yes. Many of our automotive clients start with a single prototype or short development run, then scale to full production once the design is finalised. We can provide prototype reports outlining any manufacturing issues or design improvements identified during the initial build. This seamless transition from development to production means you work with one supplier throughout the product lifecycle.
What are your typical lead times?
Lead times depend on batch size, complexity and material availability. For standard materials and straightforward geometries, we can often turn around prototypes within days and production batches within one to two weeks. We use CAD/CAM simulation to provide accurate lead times at the quotation stage, so you know exactly when to expect delivery.
What materials do you machine for automotive applications?
We machine Aluminium 6082, Stainless Steel, Brass, Mild Steel, engineering plastics and specialist alloys. For high-performance automotive applications, we also work with Titanium, Inconel and other exotic materials that most sub-contract machinists are unable to handle. Material selection advice is available at the quotation stage.
Ready to Discuss Your Automotive Project?
From single prototypes to production runs of thousands, we have the capacity and quality systems your automotive application requires.