Machine tool design includes conceptualizing, drawing and creating schematics for custom machine tools. If you need a unique machine tool for your shop's production needs, you can find machine tool design companies that work with you every step of the way.

Usually, a shop will seek out machine tool design services when it makes a specific type of product that standard machine tools aren't quite right for. Shop around when you need machinery design. You're sure to find machine tool design engineers that can make the kind of tool to produce your product quickly, accurately and efficiently.

1. Use machinery tool design services to design and build a machine tool specifically for your business.

2. Have a machine tool design company help you make the best use of your existing machinery.

3. Work with machine tool design engineers that have experience designing machines for your type of shop.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a machine tool designer to design a tool from the ground up

Machine tool designers often offer custom machinery tool design as a turn-key service to customers. If you need a unique machine tool designed from scratch, contact a full-service machine tool design company.

I recommend: Check out the list of the varied custom machine tools designed by Advanced Design Technology. Look into Haskell Machine & Tool, a company with designers who can draw plans for parts, assemblies and equipment for most industries.

Have a machine tool designer upgrade existing tools

If you have an existing tool that's almost right for your work but needs a new or additional part or capability, consider upgrading the tool rather than trading it in for a new tool. You can save on costs for both training and equipment purchase, if you keep the machine tool you already have.

I recommend: Crankshaft Machine Group repairs and rebuilds all types of computer numeric controlled (CNC) machines. Leader Engineering-Fabrication refurbishes your existing machinery and can help you decide on the services you need.

Use a company with experience designing machine tools for your industry

Experience counts when it comes to machine tool design. If you need a machine tool that isn't new or specialized, check out companies that work primarily within particular industries. You will know the companies have a track record of helping companies like your own stay in the game. Also find out if they have new products about to hit the market.

I recommend: Space Coast CAD Solutions works in areas of expertise including but not limited to aircraft and composite tool design. Direct Automation does custom machine tool design for industrial testing and assembly applications.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask other shop owners if they've used machine tool design services and get recommendations from them for companies they've worked with or heard good things about.