Low Volume & Prototype Production

Why Low Volume CNC Matters

Most CNC factories optimize for high-volume production. Setup time is amortized over thousands of pieces, and small orders disrupt their production flow. As a result, many shops add significant surcharges to orders under 100 pieces — or refuse them entirely.

EKINSUN has structured our operation differently. A significant portion of our work is prototypes, first articles, and small batches. We have the engineering support (drawings, DFM review, material selection) and the flexibility to run 1-piece jobs alongside our production batches.

What We Mean by Low Volume

Category	Quantity	Typical Use	Lead Time
Single prototype	1–3 pieces	Design validation, fit check, investor demo	5–15 days
Trial batch	5–20 pieces	Field testing, engineering samples for clients	7–18 days
Small production	20–100 pieces	Initial market launch, spare parts stock	10–25 days
Low-volume production	100–500 pieces	Established product, small market	15–35 days

Prototype Support Included

When you order a prototype, you get more than machined metal. We include:

• DFM review — we flag features that are expensive to machine, difficult to hold in tolerance, or prone to distortion, before cutting material
• Material advice — if your drawing says "aluminum" but doesn't specify a grade, we advise based on your application requirements
• Free CAD redraw — if you send a hand sketch, we draw it in CAD and send back for approval at no extra charge
• Dimensional report — for first prototypes, we include CMM measurements so you can verify the part against your specification

What Makes Small Orders Viable for Us

We run modern CNC centers with short setup times and our own tooling library. For turned parts under Ø100mm, setup time is typically under 30 minutes. For milled parts, we use modular fixturing that reduces setup time on repeat geometries.

We also keep common materials (6061-T6, 7075-T6, 304SS, 316L, C36000 brass, 1045 steel) in stock at all times. For standard materials, your prototype doesn't wait for material procurement.

Ordering Your First Prototype

• Send drawing (any format — hand sketch, PDF, STEP, DXF)
• Specify material, quantity, and any critical tolerances
• We quote within 24 hours with lead time
• 50% deposit to start, 50% before dispatch
• CMM report included for first article
• DHL Express worldwide — 3–5 days to USA/EU