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Aerospace CNC Machining Post-Processing: Precision That Ensures Flight-Ready Quality

In the aerospace industry, precision machining alone is not enough. The true performance of aerospace components often depends on the post-processing stage after machining.

CS MOLDING specializes in CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and prototyping. We understand that surface integrity, dimensional stability, and durability are critical to flight safety and reliability in aerospace applications. Therefore, we place great emphasis on high-quality post-processing.

The Importance of Post-Processing in Aerospace Manufacturing

Aerospace components operate under extreme stresses, temperature fluctuations, and vibration. Even minor imperfections on the machined surface can impact fatigue life and performance.

Effective post-processing helps:

Improve surface finish and fatigue resistance
Enhance corrosion and wear resistance
Relieve machining-induced internal stresses
Ensure dimensional accuracy and proper fit

In short, post-processing transforms precision-machined parts into flight-ready components.

Key Post-Processing Techniques for Aerospace CNC Machining

1. Deburring and Edge Finishing

All machined parts may contain small burrs or sharp edges, which can cause stress risers or assembly problems. CS MOLDING uses both manual and automated deburring processes to ensure every surface is smooth, secure, and ready for installation.

2. Polishing and Grinding

Many aerospace parts, such as brackets, structural components, and housings, require extremely fine surface finishes.

We employ precision polishing and grinding processes to achieve surface roughness as low as Ra 0.2 μm, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and appearance.

3. Anodizing and Surface Treatment

For aluminum and titanium alloys, anodizing enhances corrosion resistance, surface hardness, and coating adhesion.

We also offer passivation, zinc plating, nickel plating, and conversion coatings according to aerospace standards.

4. Heat Treatment and Stress Relief

Machining can induce internal stresses that can cause part deformation over time.

Our controlled heat treatment process restores material equilibrium, ensuring dimensional accuracy throughout the component’s service life.

5. Shot Peening

Shot peening is commonly used in aerospace components to introduce beneficial compressive stresses, significantly improving fatigue strength and crack resistance.

6. Protective Coatings

Specialized coatings such as PTFE, ceramic, or dry film lubricants can be applied to enhance wear resistance and performance in harsh aerospace environments.

Post-Processing Quality Control

At CS MOLDING, every part is inspected and verified after post-processing.

We offer the following services:

Dimensional inspection using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM)
Surface roughness and coating thickness testing
Visual and non-destructive testing as required

All production steps are fully traceable from raw material to final surface treatment, in compliance with ISO 9001 standards and meeting aerospace quality requirements.

Integrated Machining and Finishing Services

CS MOLDING integrates machining, surface treatment, and final inspection to provide complete solutions for aerospace customers.

Our integrated process provides:

Consistent quality control
Shorter lead times
Reduced outsourcing risks
Reliable documentation for every order

From prototype to production, we ensure that every component meets the highest standards of precision and reliability.

Conclusion

Post-processing is not only the final step in aerospace manufacturing but also a critical step in achieving true part precision.
CS Molding is committed to providing machining and finishing solutions that meet aerospace-grade standards for performance, safety, and consistency. 

Need a trusted manufacturing partner? Contact us. Our technical team is always ready to provide you with the best service.

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