Prototype processes need to happen quickly, and so should prototype machining services. However, for many shops, prototyping can fall behind full-scale production in the ongoing list of priorities, especially if they lack the technology or processes to handle both simultaneously.
At Reata Engineering, we’ve designed our shop floor to ensure prototyping and production can coexist. Thanks to our advanced capabilities and innovative planning systems, we’re able to manage both simultaneously, without sacrificing precision, efficiency, or speed.
Why Prototypes Belong on Advanced Machines
One of the most important factors to consider when vetting shops for prototype machining services is making sure they have the right equipment—and that they’re willing to use it.
A 5-axis machine shop like Reata offers a clear advantage when it comes to prototyping. That’s because 5-axis machining enables multiple operations to happen in a single setup, significantly reducing setup time. It shortens the path from model to part, eliminating hours of machine changes, inspection lags, and unnecessary downtime.
At Reata, all of our 5-axis machines are palleted, which means we can run multiple jobs on them at once. So when a prototype job comes in, we program it offline, load it into an open pallet, run the part, and send it to inspection, all without interrupting the flow of other jobs we have in production. Then, once inspection signs off, we can plug the job back into the machine queue and run as many as needed, seamlessly.
Seamless Prototypes = Faster Production Lead Times
Running prototypes on our multi-axis machining equipment makes production exponentially faster. When a customer requests production jobs after a successful prototype, the hard work is already done. The tooling is verified, the machine is programmed, and we’ve already proved out the process. That means we can move into production almost instantly.
Shops that aren’t willing or equipped to run prototype parts on 5-axis and multitasking equipment simply can’t move this fast. In a traditional setup, a prototype part with five operations could require five different setups across multiple machines, with lengthy waits between inspection steps. Meanwhile, thanks to our multitasking and 5-axis machining capabilities, the Reata team has been able to take RFQs and deliver finished prototypes within 24 hours from start to finish.
Another major advantage of completing a part in a single operation is error mitigation. In conventional workflows, errors introduced in early operations may not be discovered until the final operation, resulting in wasted time and material. With complex CNC machining setups like ours, we can identify issues immediately because we’re working with the completed geometry right away.
How Reata Prioritizes Your Prototype Machining Services
As a Colorado machine shop that’s built for agility, we know how to prioritize what matters most to our customers. Whether your top concern is lead time, cost, or part quality, our team adjusts accordingly.
We use intelligent scheduling systems like Fulcrum’s AI tools to manage machine capacity efficiently, and we leverage Paperless Parts to accelerate our quoting process. That means the moment you send us your model and drawing (ideally, matching files), we’re already working toward a fast, accurate, and production-ready prototype.
We also encourage customers to provide as much information as possible with their RFQs. If speed is your priority, share your intent, materials, finish requirements, and tolerances up front. The more we know, the faster we can deliver—and the more cost-effective your part will be!
If you’re looking for a precision machine shop that can move fast without cutting corners, partner with Reata. Whether you need a one-off prototype or you’re prepping for full production, we’re ready to help you move from idea to execution.