Prototype & Small Batch
CNC Machining
- One-off parts to small batch runs
- Design consultation with the directors
- Full inspection report with every prototype
- Scale directly to production runs of 10,000+
From Concept to Machined Part
Need a single part machined to test a concept? A small batch of pre-production components for validation? Or an urgent replacement part for a broken machine? We handle all of it.
At Clarent Precision, prototyping isn't a sideline — it's where many of our longest client relationships began. A single prototype leads to a small batch, which leads to ongoing production. We're set up to support that entire journey.
Unlike online quoting platforms, you speak directly to Paul or John — the directors who founded the company in 2011. They'll review your design, suggest improvements, flag potential machining issues, and give you honest advice on material selection and cost-effective manufacturing approaches.
Every prototype includes an inspection report documenting any issues encountered during manufacture and recommendations for the production version. You don't just get a part — you get the engineering insight behind it.
How It Works
From your first enquiry to a finished, inspected part — here's the process.
Consultation
Discuss your requirements with Paul or John directly. We advise on material selection, design-for-manufacture improvements, machining methods and identify any potential issues before we start.
CAD/CAM Programming
We interrogate your 3D models using our CAD/CAM system, verifying all dimensions are correct to specification. Simulations allow us to provide accurate pricing and lead times upfront.
Machining
Your part is machined on our CNC milling and turning centres. We handle everything from basic 2D profiles to complex 3D shapes and complete mill-turn operations with live tooling.
Inspection & Report
Every prototype is inspected in our temperature-controlled department. We provide a report outlining any issues encountered during manufacture and recommendations for the production version.
Why CNC Machining for Prototypes?
3D printing has its place, but CNC machining gives you a prototype in the actual production material — not a plastic approximation. That means your prototype truly represents how the final part will perform under real-world conditions.
- Production-grade materials
- Machine your prototype in the exact metal or alloy the final part will use — aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, or even Inconel and Hastelloy.
- Tighter tolerances
- CNC machining achieves ±0.01mm tolerances routinely — significantly better than most additive manufacturing processes.
- Isotropic properties
- Material strength is uniform in all directions. Unlike 3D printed parts, which can be weaker along the build axis, CNC machined parts perform identically regardless of orientation.
- Direct path to production
- Your prototype process is the production process. No translation step, no surprises when scaling up. The part you test is representative of the part you'll ship.
Prototype Capabilities
We machine prototypes using both our CNC milling and turning centres — and can combine both in a single project.
CNC Milling
3 & 4 axis machining centres. Complex 3D profiles from solid billet. Up to 762 × 406 × 508mm.
→CNC Turning
Live tooling for complete mill-turn operations in a single setup. Up to Ø279 × 413mm.
→Materials
Full range including aluminium, stainless steel, brass, plastics — plus super alloys: Titanium, Inconel, Hastelloy C276, Super Duplex and Nitronic 50.
View all materials →Post-Production
Heat treatment, anodising, plating, painting, grinding, spark & wire erosion through our approved sub-contractor network.
View treatments →Example Parts
A selection of precision machined components — many of which started life as prototypes.
Fuel Rail Prototype
6082 Aluminium3D milled from solid billet
Connector
316 Stainless SteelTurned & milled using live tooling
Stirrer
Hastelloy C276Turned & milled with 1.5mm side holes
What Our Clients Say
"In the five years that we have used Clarent Precision we have always been extremely happy with the quality, delivery and customer service they have provided. We view Clarent Precision as a valued part of our supply chain."
"Just wanted to say thank you for parts you have supplied, great job and well done, very pleased with the quality and service you provide."
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can you produce a prototype?
Lead times depend on complexity, material and current capacity. Simple prototypes in standard materials can often be turned around in 1-2 weeks. For urgent requirements, talk to us — as a small, family-run operation we can often be more flexible than larger shops.
What files do you need to start?
Ideally, we work from 3D CAD models (STEP, IGES, Parasolid) or 2D drawings (PDF, DXF). If you only have sketches or a sample part, we can work from those too. Our CAD/CAM system allows us to interrogate models and verify all dimensions before machining begins.
Can I order just one part?
Absolutely. We regularly produce single prototype parts. There is no minimum order quantity. We also handle small batches of 2-25 parts for testing and pre-production validation.
Do you offer design advice?
Yes. Our initial consultation includes advice on material selection, economical design to reduce machining time, finishing treatments that may be required, and troubleshooting potential problems. We've been doing this since 2011 — we know what works and what doesn't.
How much does a CNC prototype cost?
Costs depend on material, complexity, tolerances and the number of setups required. We provide accurate quotes using CAD/CAM simulation before any machining starts. Contact us with your drawings or models and we'll provide a detailed quotation, typically within 24-48 hours.
Can you produce the part in the final production material?
Yes. Unlike 3D printing, CNC machining produces parts from the actual production material — giving you a prototype that truly represents how the final part will perform. We machine everything from aluminium and stainless steel through to super alloys like Inconel, Titanium and Hastelloy C276.
What happens after the prototype?
We can scale directly from prototype to production runs of up to 10,000+ parts. We also offer stockholding for repeat orders, assembly services, and post-production treatments — so you have a single supplier from concept through to finished product.
Have a Prototype in Mind?
Send us your drawings, 3D models, or even a sketch. We'll review your design and provide a detailed quote with lead time, typically within 24-48 hours.