JWA CNC Precision, a precision manufacturing operation in the United Kingdom is proving that with the right CAM technology, even the most challenging tolerances and complex variations can be mastered consistently, efficiently, and profitably. 

The Challenge 

Manufacturing precision components for aerospace, defense, and green energy isn’t just about hitting tight tolerances – though JWA CNC Precision routinely works to five microns. It’s about doing it consistently across an incredibly diverse product mix. 

– We work predominantly with non-ferrous materials, small components, tiny tolerances, explains Pete Wood, Managing Director. There’s quite a lot of variation in what we do… most of our orders go out in a shoebox.

 The numbers tell the story: 9,000 different components in their catalog, with approximately 2,000 manufactured annually. Each requires precision machining of aluminum, stainless steel, plastics, and composites. Each demanding the same exacting standards that earned them AS9100 certification. 

The real challenge? Maintaining consistency and efficiency across this enormous variation while minimizing downtime and waste.

The Solution 

For over 20 years, JWA CNC Precision has relied on Mastercam as what Pete Wood calls “the heart and soul of our manufacturing infrastructure.” But they’ve gone beyond simply using the software, they’ve created a comprehensive system around it. 

Technical Director Tim Shillabeer, who brings decades of CAM experience across multiple platforms, chose to stick with Mastercam for practical reasons: – One of the great things about Mastercam is it’s so widely used, there’s a lot of information and a lot of help available.

The Benefits 

Operational Consistency: Standardized programming and setup procedures across all operations ensure any trained operator can seamlessly handle work. 

Scalable Training: New hires can become proficient within days through Mastercam’s training infrastructure, with annual refresher courses keeping the team current. 

Reduced Downtime: Consistent programs and setup sheets significantly narrow gaps between jobs, directly impacting productivity. 

Flexibility at Scale: The system handles everything from one-offs to medium batches with equal efficiency.

Advanced Users, Proven Results 

JWA CNC Precision describes themselves as “quite at the advanced end of the scale” when it comes to Mastercam usage. This expertise, combined with the software’s robust capabilities, has enabled them to: 

• Achieve AS9100 certification for aerospace and defense work 

• Maintain tolerances as tight as five microns across diverse materials 

• Scale operations without sacrificing quality or efficiency 

• Build a training system that creates interchangeable, highly skilled operators 

The impact extends beyond just programming. As Wood notes, the standardization “really has helped in the downside between jobs and it really has taken impacts on wasted hours.”