What is CNC Micro Machining?
CNC Micro Machining is a highly precise manufacturing process that uses Computer Numerical Control to create ultra-precise holes, channels, cuts, and threads in plastics and metals at the microscopic scale. By combining the repeatability of CNC automation with the exacting demands of micro-scale fabrication, this technology enables the production of features that are simply not achievable through conventional machining methods.
Whether you need a single prototype or high-volume production runs, CNC Micro Machining delivers consistent, repeatable results with tolerances measured in microns — making it an essential capability for industries where precision is non-negotiable.
Potomac Photonics CNC Micro Machining Capabilities
Potomac’s CNC Micro Machining systems are purpose-built for demanding, tight-tolerance applications. Our capabilities include:
- Tolerances of ±10 µm for plastics
- Tolerances of ±20 µm for metals
- Features as small as 100 µm
- 4-axis machining for complex geometries and multi-face part features
These specifications allow us to tackle the most intricate and demanding designs across a wide range of materials and industries.
Our Micro-CNC Process: From Concept to Finished Part
Potomac takes a collaborative, engineering-first approach to every project. We work closely with customers at each stage of development to ensure the best possible outcome.
✦ Feasability Review
Before any machining begins, our engineers assess your design for manufacturability. If a design isn’t feasible as submitted, we don’t just say no — we work with you to identify what changes would make it possible and advise on modifications that preserve your design intent.
✦ Design for Manufacturability
We help translate your concept into a design that can be reliably machined to specification. This includes reviewing tolerances, feature geometries, and material choices to optimize for both performance and production efficiency.
✦ Customer Collaboration
We engage directly with your team to understand project goals, critical features, performance requirements, and downstream integration needs. Clear communication at this stage prevents costly revisions later.
✦ Rapid Prototyping
Once a design is validated, we move quickly into prototype production. Our in-house capabilities allow us to turn around functional prototypes in a fraction of the time required by traditional machine shops.
✦ Precision Metrology
Every prototype and production run is backed by rigorous measurement and inspection. We use a variety of in-house metrology equipment to verify that features meet your specifications before parts ever leave our facility.
✦ Quality Control
Potomac maintains a comprehensive suite of quality control tools to ensure devices are fully compliant with project requirements. Our in-house QC process gives you confidence that what we ship matches what you designed.
✦ Assembly
We offer assembly of multi-layer and multi-component devices, including integration of bonded structures and complex assemblies requiring precision alignment. Bonding options include solvent bonding, PSA (pressure-sensitive adhesive) bonding, thermal bonding, and laser welding.
✦ Prototype Testing
Beyond dimensional verification, we support functional testing of prototypes, including flow testing against specified pressures and flow rates — critical for microfluidic, medical, and lab-on-chip applications.
CNC Micro Machining Materials
Potomac’s CNC Micro Machining capabilities span a broad range of engineering plastics and metals.
Plastics: COC, COP, PMMA, Polycarbonate, PEEK, Ultem
Metals: Aluminum, Brass, Stainless Steel
Our material expertise means we can recommend the right substrate for your application — balancing machinability, chemical compatibility, optical properties, and mechanical performance.
Industries & Applications
CNC Micro Machining is used wherever miniaturization, precision, and reliability intersect. Potomac serves customers across a broad range of industries, bringing deep application knowledge and engineering expertise to every project.
✦ Medical Devices
The medical industry demands an uncompromising level of precision, biocompatibility, and repeatability. Potomac supports the development and production of microfluidic devices, surgical instruments, diagnostic cartridges, implantable components, point-of-care testing platforms, and drug delivery systems. Our ability to machine tight-tolerance features in medically relevant materials like PEEK, COC, and polycarbonate makes us a trusted partner for medical OEMs and device developers alike.
✦ Drug, Cell, and Rehabilitation Research
Research applications place unique demands on fabrication — where channel dimensions, well geometries, and surface finishes directly affect experimental results. Potomac works with research institutions and life sciences companies to produce lab-on-chip platforms, cell culture devices, organ-on-chip systems, and custom fluidic assemblies that meet the exacting requirements of drug discovery, cellular analysis, and rehabilitation research programs.
✦ Electronic Parts
As electronics continue to shrink, the components that support them must be machined with ever-greater precision. Potomac can produce connectors, housings, insulators, heat sinks, and mechanical sub-assemblies for electronics manufacturers who require tight dimensional control, clean feature edges, and consistent part-to-part repeatability across production volumes.
✦ Aerospace Components
Aerospace components leave no room for error. Potomac machines lightweight, high-performance parts in aluminum, stainless steel, and engineering plastics for aerospace applications where strict tolerances, material traceability, and rigorous quality control are standard requirements. From structural brackets to fluid management components, we support aerospace customers from prototype through production.
Why Choose Potomac for Micro CNC?
Tight Tolerances, Consistently Achieved – We specialize in features and tolerances that push the limits of conventional machining. Our team and equipment are purpose-selected for micro-scale work.
In-House Quality Control – From first article inspection through production, our quality control is handled internally — giving you faster feedback, tighter process control, and full traceability.
Repeatability at Scale – Whether you need 10 parts or 10,000, our processes are designed to deliver the same level of accuracy and precision across every unit.
Multi-Technology Integration – Potomac offers a wide range of manufacturing technologies — including laser machining, laser drilling, and more — that can be combined with CNC Micro Machining to produce complex, multi-process devices under one roof.
Fast Turnaround – We understand that project timelines matter. Our team is known for quick turnarounds and clear, proactive communication throughout the project lifecycle.
A True Development Partner – We don’t just manufacture parts — we partner with our customers from initial design through high-volume production. Whether you’re still refining a concept or scaling up a proven design, Potomac can support you at every stage.
Need Additional Microfabrication?
Potomac offers generous incentives to our customers that combine CNC micro machining with our exhaustive list of other microfabrication processes.
Also From the Goodfellow Group
Material feedstock quality directly affects the resolution and mechanical integrity of micro-printed and CNC-machined components. Goodfellow supplies precision metal rod, wire, and powder, as well as engineering polymers, for use as additive and subtractive manufacturing feedstocks.
Source your feedstock materials from Goodfellow.
Part microstructure, density, surface roughness, and dimensional accuracy can be assessed through Goodfellow’s ISO 17025-accredited materials testing division, supporting process validation and component qualification.
Characterize printed or machined components before use in critical assemblies.
