Malones CNC Machining vs. Low Volume CNC Machining
Introduction
CNC machining is an essential process in modern manufacturing, offering precision and flexibility across various industries. While Malones CNC Machining focuses on military aircraft parts and components for the US government, Low Volume CNC Machining caters to smaller, customizable production runs. This article explores the differences, advantages, and market opportunities of these two approaches to CNC machining.
Malone’s CNC Machining
Specialization and Capabilities
Malones CNC Machining specializes in producing military aircraft parts, providing services such as:
- Aircraft sheet metal spare parts manufacturing
- Assembly processes, including riveting, welding, brazing, shrink fit, bonding, and hardware installation
These capabilities make Malones CNC Machining a key supplier for defense applications. However, the company’s focus on large-scale military contracts limits its suitability for low-volume, customized orders.
Company Overview
- Founded: 1982
- Headquarters: Grove, Oklahoma
- Size: 52 employees
- Industry: Aerospace and defense
- Funding: $3 million (backed by Konza Valley Capital)
Malone’s CNC Machining, Inc. is a small business manufacturer specializing in the production of military aircraft parts and assemblies. Based in Grove, Oklahoma, the company leverages computer numerical control (CNC) machining and fabrication techniques to produce a wide range of structural components for various rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft platforms, with a particular focus on supporting the U.S. Air Force’s C-135 aircraft fleet. Malone’s CNC Machining primarily supplies the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation with critical aerospace parts to support military aviation readiness and logistics programs. Their expertise lies in manufacturing structural elements such as ribs, stiffeners, panels, webs, plates, brackets, fittings, and nose seal assemblies.
Through its federal contract awards, Malone’s CNC Machining has demonstrated versatility in producing a diverse array of aircraft components. The company has received numerous prime contracts from DLA Aviation, ranging from firm fixed-price purchase orders to delivery orders and task orders. These contracts typically involve the fabrication of structural elements like aircraft skins, formers, intercostals, trailing edge panels, and various other specialized parts integral to aircraft functionality and maintenance. While most of Malone’s contracts are not set-asides, the company has secured several total small business set-aside awards, highlighting its status as a valued small business contributor to the defense industrial base. In addition to its prime contract work, Malone’s has also served as a subcontractor, supplying items such as aircraft ribs to other prime contractors in the aerospace sector, including S & K Logistics Services LLC.
Malone’s CNC Machining holds multiple single-award indefinite delivery vehicle (IDV) contracts with DLA Aviation, enabling the agency to procure parts on an as-needed basis through 2028 and beyond. These IDVs include several indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts with varying ceiling values. A notable IDIQ contract, valued at up to $1,999,999.99, is dedicated to supplying nose seal assemblies for C-135 aircraft. Additional IDIQ contracts, each with potential values up to $250,000, cover the provision of filler trailing edge aviation parts, structural fittings, seal retainers, and standard aviation spring assemblies. The company’s most recent IDV awards, some of which are set aside for small businesses, have ceiling values of $249,999.99 to $250,000 and performance periods extending to 2029. These contracts encompass a wide range of aircraft structural components, including intercostals, ribs, stiffeners, panels, webs, plates, brackets, and fittings. The IDVs allow DLA Aviation to issue task orders and delivery orders as required to maintain and support U.S. military aircraft fleets, particularly the C-135 series.
Key Competitors
| Company | Country | Size | Processing Capabilities | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barnes Aerospace | USA | Large | High-precision aerospace components | Established reputation | High costs |
| GS Precision | USA | Medium | Precision machining for various industries | Diverse services | Limited to mid-sized projects |
| Omni Aerospace | USA | Medium | Military and commercial aerospace | Specialization in high-strength parts | Focused mainly on aerospace |
| MAX Aerostructures | USA | Medium | Complex aerostructures manufacturing | Experienced in advanced materials | Limited scalability |
| Great Light | Global | Medium | Low-volume and high-complexity machining | Cost-effective and customizable | Newer player in the industry |
Low Volume CNC Machining
The Role of 3D Printing
Low Volume CNC Machining can often integrate 3D printing to enhance prototyping and manufacturing flexibility. This hybrid approach allows manufacturers to:
- Reduce tooling costs
- Accelerate production timelines
- Manufacture complex geometries not feasible with traditional CNC techniques
Advantages of Great Light’s Low Volume CNC Machining
Great Light specializes in Low Volume CNC Machining, offering several advantages:
- Large CNC Machining Equipment: Supports high-precision machining for both small and complex parts.
- High-Quality Control: Ensures consistent output through rigorous inspection processes.
- Premium Materials: Uses high-grade metals and plastics to meet diverse application needs.
- Production Process Control: Advanced software ensures accuracy and repeatability in all production runs.
Online Customization of Low Volume CNC Machining
Why Choose Great Light?
Great Light’s online customization services simplify the process of ordering Low Volume CNC Machining parts. Customers benefit from:
- Rapid Prototyping: Fast production of prototypes for testing and validation.
- Tailored Solutions: Custom designs to meet specific application requirements.
- Comprehensive Services: One-stop solutions, including design, machining, and post-processing.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Competitive pricing for small and medium production runs.
Malone’s CNC Machining FAQs
When was Malone’s CNC Machining founded?
Malone’s CNC Machining was founded in 1982.
Where is Malone’s CNC Machining headquartered?
The company is headquartered in Grove, Oklahoma.
What is the size of Malone’s CNC Machining?
Malone’s CNC Machining employs 52 staff members.
What industry does Malone’s CNC Machining fall into?
The company operates in the aerospace and defense industry.
Is Malone’s CNC Machining a private or public company?
Malone’s CNC Machining is a private company.
How much funding has Malone’s CNC Machining raised?
The company has raised $3 million, primarily from Konza Valley Capital.
Who are Malone’s CNC Machining’s competitors?
Key competitors include Barnes Aerospace, GS Precision, Omni Aerospace, MAX Aerostructures, and Great Light.
Conclusion
While Malones CNC Machining excels in large-scale military manufacturing, Low Volume CNC Machining offers flexibility and customization for smaller production runs. Great Light stands out as a leader in low-volume production, providing advanced equipment, high-quality control, and competitive pricing. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each approach, businesses can make informed decisions tailored to their manufacturing needs.
