What is Design & Machining?
Design and machining is the process of engineering and fabricating custom components, fixtures, and systems to meet specific functional, dimensional, and performance requirements. This work combines mechanical design, material selection, and precision manufacturing to create parts and equipment that cannot be achieved with standard, off-the-shelf solutions.
At ITS, design and machining are integrated to support testing, validation, and manufacturing needs. Engineering teams develop detailed CAD models and simulations to predict performance before fabrication, while in-house machining capabilities produce components to tight tolerances using advanced equipment. This end-to-end approach ensures design intent is maintained from concept through final production.
By delivering purpose-built rigs, fixtures, and precision parts, design and machining services enable accurate testing, efficient manufacturing, and reliable performance. These capabilities support aerospace, automotive, energy, defense, medical, and industrial applications where custom solutions, precision, and repeatability are essential.
Types of Design & Machining Services
Custom Rig Design & Manufacturing
Designs and builds specialized rigs and fixtures for testing tailored to unique project requirements.
Machining Services
Provides high-precision machining for complex components, using advanced equipment to meet tight tolerances and custom geometries.
Solid Modeling & FEA
Uses computer simulation to predict mechanical performance under various load and environmental conditions before fabrication.
Key Benefits of Design & Machining Services
Design and machining services provide custom-engineered solutions that improve accuracy, efficiency, and reliability across testing and manufacturing workflows. By combining in-house engineering and fabrication, ITS delivers components and systems that meet exact performance and quality requirements.
- Create purpose-built rigs, fixtures, and components tailored to specific applications.
- Maintain tight tolerances and dimensional accuracy through precision machining.
- Reduce project timelines by integrating design, simulation, and fabrication in-house.
- Validate performance early using solid modeling and FEA before fabrication.
- Improve repeatability and safety in testing while supporting complex, high-reliability applications with full documentation and traceability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of projects require custom rig design?
Custom rig design is essential when off-the-shelf solutions cannot meet testing needs. These rigs are built to perform specific functions, such as holding components in precise alignment, applying controlled forces, or simulating service conditions. Industries such as aerospace, energy, and automotive often require unique rigs for product validation. By tailoring the rig to the exact size, load, and environmental requirements, ITS ensures accurate data collection and safe operation during testing.
How does ITS ensure machining accuracy?
ITS maintains strict quality control throughout the machining process. All machines are calibrated and operated by skilled engineers who follow documented procedures. CAD models and engineering drawings guide every step, from setup to final inspection. Tolerances are verified using precision measurement tools. Materials are handled carefully to avoid distortion or contamination. By combining advanced equipment with experienced craftsmanship, ITS consistently produces parts that meet or exceed customer specifications.
Which industries benefit from ITS machining services?
Machining services are used by industries that require high-precision, reliable test rigs. Aerospace manufacturers rely on ITS for testing fixtures that meet stringent safety and performance standards. Energy companies require durable fixtures and tooling to enable testing of hardware. . Automotive clients use machining for custom testing equipment. Medical device makers depend on precision dimensional analysis for surgical instruments and implants. Defense, marine, and industrial manufacturing sectors also benefit from ITS.
Can ITS handle both design and production in-house?
Yes, ITS offers integrated design and machining capabilities, allowing clients to work with a single partner from concept to finished product. This approach shortens project timelines, improves communication, and ensures design intent is preserved throughout manufacturing. The engineering team develops detailed CAD models, while the machining department produces components using state-of-the-art equipment. In-house assembly and validation further ensure that the final product meets all performance and quality requirements before delivery to the client.
What is included in a design and machining project report?
A design and machining project report includes the original project requirements, design drawings, CAD files, material specifications used. It also documents quality control inspections, measurement data, and any validation test results. Photographs of the completed product may be included. This comprehensive documentation ensures traceability and supports compliance with industry standards or customer specifications. The report provides a clear record of how the project was executed and verified.
How quickly can ITS complete a design and machining project?
Lead times vary depending on project complexity, design iterations, and material availability. Simple components may be designed and machined within days, while complex systems or large rigs may take weeks. ITS works closely with clients to establish realistic timelines that align with project schedules. Early involvement in the design phase can significantly reduce turnaround time by streamlining approvals and material procurement. For urgent needs, expedited services are available to deliver high-quality results without compromising accuracy or reliability.
Client Testimonials
Nick Kattamis – Creare
I wanted to extend a very big THANK YOU for prioritizing this work and helping it get done so quickly. Often times these last minute requests are out of our hands, so again, thank you for your responsiveness.
Ryan Canfield
I’d like to thank Innovative Test Solutions for their excellent work, and for accommodating our second round of testing. This was an important milestone for us, and we will definitely remember you for future needs.
Kris – GE Power
Excellent work on this testing and report write up! As usual, the ITS team exceeded expectations.
Earl Size
Thank you very much! And thank you for going the extra mile in helping us where you thought to. I truly appreciate it.
Richard F. – Chromalloy
The efforts on the erosion test program were excellent. Kyle and Jason did an outstanding job. We were working with many unknowns. Both men made major contributions that resulted in a successful outcome. I now feel confident that we have the recipe to conduct side-by-side erosion tests of coatings on actual parts. I anticipate that we will use the erosion test methodology again in the latter part of 2019. Thanks for your assistance.
Adam – Curtiss Wright
Thank you all for all of your efforts with this program. I have worked with many test labs over the years and must say that you were one of the best I have come across. The responsiveness and willingness to work with us to find a good solution was unprecedented with previous experiences with other facilities. Thank you all for being great to work with.
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