CNC machining in Antibes: complete guide to custom metal parts
Aluminum, brass, steel: learn when to choose CNC machining over 3D printing, achievable tolerances and how to get a custom metal part within 48h.
CNC machining (Computer Numerical Control) is the go-to solution when a part must be metallic, precise and durable. Unlike 3D printing which deposits plastic layer by layer, CNC machining removes material from a solid block — aluminum, brass or steel — to achieve tolerances in the hundredths of a millimeter.
At NC Factory in Antibes, we combine CNC machining, 3D printing and engineering to recommend the best process for each project. This guide explains when to choose machining, which materials to use, and how an order works from the French Riviera.
What is CNC machining?
CNC machining uses a computer-controlled mill or lathe to cut a part from a CAD file (STEP, IGES, DXF). The program controls every tool movement with ±0.05 mm precision on critical dimensions. Common operations include 3-axis milling, drilling, tapping, chamfering and surface finishing.
CNC machining vs 3D printing: when to choose what?
- Choose CNC machining: metal part, tight tolerance (<0.1 mm), high mechanical strength, fluid or extreme temperature contact, industrial spare part
- Choose 3D printing: rapid plastic prototype, complex geometry impossible to machine, small plastic batch, non-structural part
- Combine both: 3D prototype for validation, then final machined metal part — a common workflow for our SME and marine clients
Simple rule: if the part must handle significant mechanical load or heat, CNC machining is almost always the right choice. For a plastic replacement part or prototype, 3D printing will be faster and more economical.
Machinable materials at NC Factory
- Aluminum (6061, 7075): most requested — light, marine corrosion resistant. Engine mounts, fixing plates, alignment shims, technical enclosures.
- Brass: excellent machinability and golden finish. Bushings, spacers, marine plumbing parts, threaded inserts.
- Steel and stainless steel: high mechanical stress or corrosive environments. Shafts, pins, structural supports, transmission parts. 316L stainless for marine.
- PTFE (Teflon) and POM (Delrin): technical plastics that cannot be FDM printed but machine perfectly.
Real use cases on the French Riviera
- Marine: PTFE shims, winch plates, dashboard mounts, keel parts
- Automotive and garages: spacers, adapters, sensor mounts, unavailable spare parts
- Industry and robotics: mounting plates, linear guides, production tooling, jig parts
- Individuals: metal repair parts for furniture, pools, shutters or sports equipment
Order process: quote to delivery
- Step 1: send CAD file (STEP/IGES) or photos + dimensions via our quote form
- Step 2: quote within 24h with material, lead time and price
- Step 3: machining in 24 to 72h depending on complexity
- Step 4: delivery to Antibes, Cannes, Nice, Monaco or workshop pickup
FAQ
We guarantee ±0.05 mm tolerances on critical dimensional features. For bores and threads, precision depends on diameter and material — contact us for edge cases.
Yes. From the broken part, photos and dimensions, our engineering team creates the 3D model then launches machining. 3D scanning is available for complex geometries.
Between €30 and €300 depending on size, complexity and material. A simple aluminum shim is around €30-50; a complex plate with multiple bores can reach €150-300. Free quote within 24h.
For a simple one-off, lead times are comparable (24-48h). Machining takes longer on very complex parts or hard steel. 3D printing remains faster for plastic prototypes.
Discover our CNC machining service or compare with our 3D printing vs traditional manufacturing article.
