Precision Engineering Blog

The History of CNC Machining

Tuesday, July 7th, 2020

History CNC Machining

Computer numerical control – or CNC – is quite a modern concept in the production and manufacturing industries. It is a manufacturing process that involves pre-programmed computer software that dictates the machinery and the movement of factory tools. While it’s a relatively new concept, it’s one that goes back to the idea of numerical control.

Numerical control began when concepts of programmable logic were incorporated with machine tool automation. Numerical control machines were initially built in the 1940s, but by the 1950s, machines that held a slight advantage were then produced. Continue reading →

Thompson Precision – Coronavirus Update

Thursday, May 21st, 2020

Thompson Precision Corona Virus Update

While the current situation is causing incredible uncertainty to health, families, businesses and our shared way of life, we thought we’d let me know how things are looking from the factory floor and what we’re doing to keep our staff and customers safe. We’re still manufacturing, and we thought you might want to know how our days have changed.

Due to the current COVID 19 pandemic, we took the step to install social distancing measures as early as possible. We are running a skeleton staff which covers the needs of our customers. We review this weekly but can adapt to meet demands, allowing us to manufacture urgently needed components as well as fulfilling ongoing projects. Continue reading →

What is 5 Axis CNC Machining?

Thursday, May 21st, 2020

An example of 5 axis used to machine stainless steel

As CNC Machining Centres get more and more advanced, parts that would have previously been difficult to make are getting much easier. But how do you know when you need a 3 Axis or a 5 Axis CNC Machine?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Machining is the method of manufacturing in which pre-programmed computer code dictates the path of cutting tools. The CNC Machine’s software runs line of code after line of code, allowing simple and complex parts to be machined in a single set of instructions. This means engineers are not needed to prompt the machine to move from one task to the next, saving time and increasing accuracy compared to manual machining. Continue reading →

How is Precision Engineering used in Manufacturing?

Friday, April 17th, 2020

Engineering consultant

Precision Engineering is the process of making things with a high level of precision. This could be a component part that goes into making a larger product, mass produced widgets, reverse engineered parts to replace one that has gone end of life or a new product all together.

In a manufacturing situation, it usually encompasses the production of highly specific components, machinery, equipment or systems for a range of industry uses. Basically, anything that requires a great deal of precision. Continue reading →

The Process of Reverse Engineering

Sunday, February 9th, 2020

precision engineering CAD design

Reverse engineering is where something (in this case a product or component) is taken apart to understand how it was put constructed in the first place. It is used in all walks of life in situations where you examine the end result and try and work out how to get there.

It could be applied to pretty much anything, in this post however, we are going to look at reverse engineering when applied to a product, assembly, part or component. In this case it is often used for obsolete parts which are no longer in production or to understand a competitor’s product better or to work out how to create something similar. Continue reading →

Do you need a complex part machine, Thompson Precision can help!

Wednesday, November 6th, 2019

image of machinery

Precision engineering is one of the most important areas that has helped advance the world of manufacturing. Businesses that need to produce large scale amounts of products, prototypes, machine parts, and other essentials will need to make full use of complex machining. As a business owner, you are going to need to make sure you have all the best tools and equipment to help you get the optimum outcome. Continue reading →

Large Engineering Project To Implement?

Friday, September 27th, 2019

engineers and map

When you are overseeing and implementing a large-scale project, planning is key. Every step of the strategy needs to work in order for the cogs to turn. At Thompson Precision Engineering, we understand the complexities of managing large engineering projects, and we have many years of experience in providing consulting services. If you’re aiming for optimum results, why not let us give you the edge? Continue reading →

Designed a new product? We can help bring it to life!

Monday, August 26th, 2019

image of engineer working

Let Thompson Precision Engineering bring your 3D design to life!

If there’s one thing that can be said about Thompson Precision Engineering, it’s that we cater to the foremost engineering and design companies for a reason. We have the precision engineering service partnered with a fantastic design team to make your new product come to life before your eyes. We’re specialists in using low and medium volume components, machine castings and prototyping assembles for product development, and we serve a massive range of industries. The companies just keep on coming back to us time and again for our reliable and affordable service, which is designed to ensure that the entire process is smooth from start to finish. Continue reading →

What exactly is Reverse Engineering and how can it help?

Wednesday, July 31st, 2019

image of insurance of cog wheel

Are you wondering how engineers provide high levels of innovation in what can be an incredibly fast-moving industry? The answer is reverse engineering. Reverse engineering ensures that teams can create products that have never been seen before and do provide tremendous benefits to users. To understand how this happens, you need to learn what reverse engineering is and how it can be used. Continue reading →