FAQs
Common questions about AIM’s capabilities, capacity, materials, quality documentation and lead times.
Capabilities and capacity
What manufacturing services does AIM provide?
AIM provides simultaneous 5-axis machining, large-format CNC milling, CNC turning, wire EDM, dimensional inspection, CMM measurement and First Article Inspection support.
Where is AIM based?
AIM is based at Britannia Enterprise Park in Lichfield, Staffordshire, United Kingdom.
Does AIM provide 5-axis CNC machining?
Yes. AIM provides simultaneous 5-axis machining for complex, multi-face and three-dimensional precision components.
What is AIM’s maximum 5-axis component capacity?
AIM can accommodate five-axis components up to approximately 500 mm in diameter and 350 mm high, with a combined component and fixture load of approximately 300 kg. Actual capacity depends on geometry and workholding.
Does AIM provide large-format CNC milling?
Yes. AIM provides vertical CNC milling with travel up to approximately 1,300 × 670 × 625 mm and table loading up to approximately 1,300 kg.
What is AIM’s CNC turning capacity?
AIM supports bar diameters up to approximately 52 mm and larger turned components up to approximately 460 mm in diameter and 705 mm long, subject to workholding and geometry.
Does AIM offer wire EDM?
Yes. AIM provides submerged wire EDM for intricate profiles, precision slots, hardened conductive materials and complex through-features.
Does AIM provide CMM inspection?
Yes. AIM uses CNC coordinate measurement to support dimensional and geometric inspection of precision-manufactured components.
Quality, materials and documentation
Can AIM provide a First Article Inspection report?
Yes. AIM works with customers to provide FAI documentation for applicable parts and manufacturing processes. The required format and scope should be agreed before manufacture.
Are AIM’s manufactured components traceable?
Yes. Components can be traced through the relevant customer order, part number, drawing revision, material batch, manufacturing order, production route, inspection and final release records.
Is AIM AS9100D certified?
AIM is currently working towards AS9100D certification. AIM is developing its quality-management system in alignment with AS9100D requirements but is not currently certified.
What materials can AIM machine?
AIM can review aluminium, carbon and alloy steel, stainless steel, tool steel, cast iron, copper alloys, engineering plastics, titanium and other specialist engineering materials.
Does AIM manufacture prototypes?
Yes. AIM supports one-off components, engineering prototypes, development programmes, low-volume manufacturing, bridge production and repeat batches.
Which industries does AIM support?
AIM supports aerospace, defence, UAV, energy, automotive, motorsport, industrial equipment and advanced engineering customers.
How do I request a quotation?
Submit an engineering drawing, CAD model, material specification, required quantity, inspection requirements and delivery date through AIM’s Request a Quote page.