Production runs: the same part, again and again
A production run is a quantity of the same part, made with a setup built to repeat. We machine production runs at our Reno shop, and the work grows out of the prototype and CNC milling that come before it.
- Built from your specifications, drawings or samples
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Stock photo: the chuck and turret of a CNC lathe
Making one part and making fifty are different jobs. The first part is a question about whether the idea works. The fiftieth is a question about whether it matches the first. The setup, the program and the way each piece is held all change once the same part has to come out the same every time.
At a glance
- Repeat parts from a proven setup and program
- Fixtures that hold every piece the same way
- A first piece checked before the batch is cut
- Reorders from the same drawing and revision
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What is different about one part and fifty?
A single part can be held in a vise and cut by feel. A batch needs a way to load and unload each piece in the same position without re-measuring. That often means a fixture, a stop, or a program written around a repeatable work-holding method.
The time spent on that setup is paid back across the run. It also protects the later pieces from drifting away from the first.
The first piece sets the standard
Before the batch continues, the first piece is checked against the print. If something is off, it is corrected once, not discovered fifty times. Your print carries the weight here: sizes with tolerances, the material and condition, finish where it counts, and a revision letter so everyone is talking about the same part.
The guide to what goes on a drawing lists these items, and the glossary entry on tolerance explains how allowed variation is written.
Delivery and reorders
"We at Wolf Machine pride ourselves on our excellent delivery and on-time record. We strive to maintain our excellent reputation for quick turnarounds whenever possible." For a production run, tell us the schedule you need when you request the quote, and the estimate can be set against it.
When the drawing, program and fixture are kept, a reorder starts from the same place as the first batch. Name the part number and revision, and the shop can pick up where it left off.
What to send for a production quote
Send the print or model, the quantity per order, how often you expect to reorder, the material and any finish. If the part is still being proven, begin with a prototype. For parts with pockets and profiles, the CNC milling page explains the process most runs use. Send the details through the quote request or call (775) 359-5570, Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.
Sources
- Wolf Machine & Fabrication home page (2026-10-18)
- ASME Y14.5-2018, Dimensioning and Tolerancing (2026-10-18)
What changes in a production run
- Fixtures made for quick, consistent loading
- A stored CNC program for repeat cuts
- First-piece inspection against the print
- Material ordered to match the part
- Reorders tied to a drawing revision
Typical parts
- Machined housings and plates
- Bushings and spacers
- Shafts and pins
- Fixture and tooling components
How to send us the job
Start with whatever you have: the drawing, the old part, or clear photos and a few measurements. Attach files to the quote request or bring the piece to 4812 Longley Ln.
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Straight answers
Production runs questions
Still have a question? Call (775) 359-5570, Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.
What should I tell you about a repeat order?
State the quantity, how often you will reorder, and the drawing revision, so the setup is planned for repeats.
Can I start with a prototype and move to production?
Yes. That is the common path, and the print written for the prototype becomes the print for the run.
Does the first piece get checked?
Yes. The first piece is measured against your print before the rest of the batch is cut.
Send us the job
Request a quote
Tell us what you need, attach a drawing or photos of the part, and we will get back to you during shop hours. Free consultations; prompt estimates.
- From your specifications, drawings or samples. We can also assist you in designing your product or part.
- Free consultations and prompt estimates
- Stands behind the work: Our rates are very competitive and our quality is second-to-none. Wolf Machine stands behind the work we perform.
- Company accounts: all major credit cards, or we can open an account for your company
Shop hours Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Send your request any time and we will get back to you during shop hours.
Stock photo: a lathe turning a bar, hot chips flying