When & Why it Occurs… if at All!

Machining (when needed) is a process step in Ceramco’s manufacturing, reducing the complex ceramic part from the near-net shape to its final tolerances. When machining is required, it can occur at two points during the production process. The point at which machining occurs determines the specific process used.

Machining Green Bodies – Certain features can be machined into a green-body, or a bisque-fired ceramic part before firing it to its full density. Green body machining is done using tool steel cutters and conventional methods. Features Ceramco commonly machines into green-bodies include:

Fine Diamond Machining Full Density Parts – Ceramic parts fired to their full density are too hard for machining with tool steel cutters or even conventional methods. Following a final firing, when as-fired tolerances are not sufficient, fine diamond machining (grinding) using diamond impregnated cutters is often required. Features Ceramco commonly fine diamond machines into fully fired ceramic parts include:

• Diameters and surfaces that have tighter tolerance requirements than can be achieved in the as-fired condition
• Ceramic tubes and special extruded rods requiring fine features or tolerances

Also, fine diamond machining is used at Ceramco to machine non ceramics, including quartz.

No Machining All –Depending upon the requirements of the OEM ceramic part, the geometry and final tolerances can oftentimes be achieved during the near-net shaping process. This is the most cost effective solution. Features Ceramco commonly achieves with no machining whatsoever include:

• Fully functional ceramic screw threads
• Square holes that cannot be machined
• Specific radii and fillets
• Other complex geometries that cannot be machined

Ceramic Grind Blanks and Ceramic Parts Prototypes

Ceramco manufactures its own grind blanks, insuring an uninterrupted supply and the versatility to produce virtually any type or formulation of ceramic blank required. When delivery time is tight, having our own blanks always available, Ceramco may be able to grind a ceramic part complete instead of making a molding tool.

Machining Tolerances for Ceramic Parts at Ceramco

Every ceramic part we manufacture is unique. As such, our grind shop’s ability to hold tolerances depends primarily upon the shape and size of the ceramic part in question. Please contact us to discuss the tolerances your part requires.

Micro-lapping OEM Ceramic Parts

Micro-lapping produces a very smooth, polished surface character on critical surfaces of the ceramic part. Our fine-grain materials, including: A998, A96, and PSZ are suitable for the lapping process as a value-added offering.

People Making it Happen

When necessary, Ceramco's operators machine the near-net shapes to their final tolerance (and do so much more) for our customers. Ceramco's machinists are highly skilled experts in the process of grinding and delivering world-class results on every order.

Ready to Make it Happen for You

Do you need a quotation on your print for an OEM ceramic part? Submit an RFQ now, or contact Ceramco. You'll be greeted by a courteous customer service specialist ready to provide immediate, personal assistance. Ceramco specializes in manufacturing OEM ceramic parts with complex geometries, matching the appropriate forming process to your order's specifications and quantity: