Precision at scale: sliding head machining for small, intricate components

Published - 25th Jul 2025

How Metaltech Precision delivers repeatable, tight-tolerance parts from Ø 2mm to Ø 32mm — trusted by OEMs in aerospace, medical, semiconductors and more.

Small parts with big performance.

In precision engineering, the smallest components often carry the greatest responsibility. From defence systems to aerospace actuators, semiconductor processing equipment to medical devices, quality, repeatability, and scale are essential.

When you’re sourcing small diameter parts at scale, performance and price must go hand-in-hand. That’s where sliding head machining excels and Metaltech Precision leads.

Based in the UK, Metaltech Precision is a specialist machining services partner in sliding head computer numerical controlled (CNC) machining. We manufacture complex, tight-tolerance small turned parts in volumes from hundreds to hundreds of thousands. Our production range covers diameters from 2mm to 32mm, with full traceability and quality assurance backed by AS9100 accreditation. We combine speed, consistency and accuracy to deliver performance you can trust.

What is sliding head machining — and why choose it?

Sliding head machining (also known as Swiss-turn machining) is a CNC turning process designed for long, slender and intricate components. Unlike conventional lathes where the tool moves and the bar stock remains stationary, sliding head machines advance the bar through a guide bushing, keeping the cutting area extremely close to the material support.

This unique setup provides several clear advantages:

• Exceptional concentricity and dimensional stability
• Ideal for small diameter parts with high length-to-diameter ratios
• Multi-axis control for complex features and cross-drilling
• High-speed, lights-out production for long runs and low cost-per-part.

At Metaltech precision, we use sliding head technology to deliver tight tolerance turned parts in demanding materials, with features including undercuts, threads, cross-holes and more — all produced in a single operation, without the need for secondary processes.

Expertise in tight tolerances and production efficiency

In recent years, Metaltech Precision have increased our sliding head capacity to 13 state-of-the-art machines through the acquisition of NC Precision, a company with a legacy in manufacturing small-diameter complex components. Our investment in modern sliding head machinery allows us to optimise cycle time, tool wear and process repeatability to deliver precision components at scale. With in-house tooling expertise and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) programming, we support customers at every stage of production.

Metaltech Precision’s sliding head machining capabilities

At Metaltech Precision, our commitment to investment in technology is central to delivering exceptional results. Our dedicated sliding head machining capability is backed by a comprehensive plant list that includes machining centres from leading brands such as Citizen, Doosan and Mazak, with advanced support equipment for finishing and inspection. This allows us to scale production efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of precision.

View our full plant and machinery list

Key sliding head machining capabilities at Metaltech include:

• Component diameters from Ø 2mm to Ø 32mm
• Surface finishes down to Ra 0.4µm
• Tolerances ±.005 mm diameters & bores; ±.02 mm – On Lengths
• Multi-axis Swiss-turn CNC turning
• Live tooling for cross-milling and off-axis features
• In-machine deburring, drilling, slotting and part-off operations
• Lights-out production supported by automated bar feeders
• Inline in-process inspection and offline CMM verification
• Complex parts delivered complete in a single operation.

Our approach allows customers to benefit from high-volume output without compromising on accuracy or finish quality. High-performance CNC turning centres with automated feeders form the backbone of our lights-out production environment, enabling us to meet increasing demand across performance critical applications.

Ongoing investment in new machinery

We continually invest in the latest machinery to stay at the forefront of advanced CNC machining, supported by high quality inspection and quality control.

For example, Metaltech’s investment in the new Quantum X FaroArm, a portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) significantly enhances the accuracy of inspection practices. This state-of-the-art, portable technology is designed to probe or scan, with articulated measurement arms that are significantly more versatile than fixed CMMs and can access harder-to-reach locations – delivering up to 15% accuracy increase against previous models. When every micron matters, this is significant, and highlights our commitment to consistent quality assurance.

Trusted by Tier 1 and leading OEMs across critical industries

We partner with customers in sectors where precision, traceability and trust are non-negotiable. Here’s how our services support performance-critical applications:

Aerospace precision components

In aerospace, even the smallest parts play a critical role in safety and performance. We manufacture components such as sensor housings used in actuation systems, avionics and engines, fasteners, fittings and control assemblies.

• AS9100-certified quality management
• Experienced in machining steels, aluminium and titanium
• Batch traceability and first article inspection
• Optimised for weight-sensitive, high-spec parts.

As a reliable UK sliding head subcontractor, we help aerospace engineers keep production on track without compromising quality.

Semiconductors and electronics

The demand for miniature machining in semiconductor and electronics systems is growing rapidly. We support semiconductor production and electronics OEMs by supplying small components such as small diameter connectors, miniature sensor housings, precision pins for processing equipment and custom fixtures.

• High-volume, zero-defect production
• Tight tolerances for electrical performance and alignment
• Flexible machining of brass, aluminium, bronze, titanium and stainless grades.

For both R&D tooling and mass production, our CNC sliding head machining delivers precision at speed — essential for just-in-time supply chains.

Defence CNC machining services

Metaltech supports Tier 1 defence contractors with repeatable small component machining for land, air and naval systems. Applications include submarine shafts, bushes for land vehicles, structural fittings, threaded inserts, precision spacers and fasteners.

• UK-based production for national supply chain resilience
• Full documentation, traceability, and quality records
• Machining experience across defence-grade metals including steel, bronze and titanium
• Precision micro-machining backed by JOSCAR and AS9100 approved processes for the defence sector

We’re a trusted partner for defence projects that demand accuracy, confidentiality and consistent delivery.

Industrial automation and automotive electric motors

From sensor brackets to drive shafts, our small turned parts help drive the next generation of automation and electrification.

• Machined parts for high-performance electric motor assemblies
• Various components for hydraulic systems across industrial automation
• Ability to supply hardened & ground and plated components
• Cost-effective production in aluminium and brass
• Smooth finishes and tight tolerances for low-friction movement

If your design requires scalable precision, we can help bring it to life.

Medical device component machining

Medical components require absolute consistency and clean, burr-free finishes. Metaltech Precision can deliver small, intricate components such as small surgical screws, cannula fittings, diagnostic housings and implant components.

• High-precision cutting for biocompatible materials
• Special finishes including gold plating for brass connectors
• Excellent surface finishes to support sterilisation
• Fine tolerances and concentricity for functional safety.

Whether your parts are destined for operating theatres or patient diagnostics, we ensure every turned component meets the strictest standards.

Certified to deliver: Metaltech’s accreditations

At Metaltech Precision, quality is built into everything we do. Our work is backed by internationally recognised certifications that give our customers peace of mind and ensure compliance in the most demanding sectors.

Our current certifications:

• AS9100 – The aerospace and defence industry’s most rigorous quality management standard, ensuring traceability, risk control and process integrity.
• ISO 9001 – The globally recognised standard for quality management systems, reinforcing our commitment to consistency and continuous improvement.
• Cyber Essentials – UK government-backed certification that demonstrates we follow best practices in data security and cyber risk management.
• BS 4500-1 compliant – standard ISO tolerances and fundamental deviations
• BS EN ISO 14001 certified for environmental management

We also use the standard AS9102 FAIRs (First Article Inspection Report) template across all sectors if requested, evidencing that our manufactured products conform to design requirements.

Why this matters for you:

• Confidence in quality – Every part we produce meets a robust, verified standard.
• Reduced supply chain risk – Our systems are audited, controlled and documented.
• Simplified procurement – These certifications often align with your internal QA, making it easier to onboard us as an approved supplier.
• Data protection compliance – With Cyber Essentials, we also help protect your IP, designs and communications.
• Environmental management – supporting customers’ ESG goals and helping reduce environmental impact across the supply chain.

Working with a certified supplier helps you meet your own compliance obligations and supports the performance of every component you receive.

Materials we machine — performance across the board

Metaltech Precision machines a broad range of engineering metals, each chosen for their mechanical and physical properties. Our team can advise on material selection to meet your performance and cost targets.

Commonly machined materials:

• Brass – excellent machinability and conductivity; ideal for high-speed turning of connectors and terminals
• Stainless steel – strong, corrosion-resistant and reliable; used in medical, defence and aerospace parts
• Aluminium – lightweight, cost-effective and fast to machine; ideal for automation, enclosures and sensor housings
• Titanium – strong, biocompatible and corrosion-resistant; perfect for aerospace and surgical devices
• Remko Soft Iron – specialist conductive material; used in rail signalling and other key systems.

By combining material versatility with process expertise, we produce complex turned components that meet the highest functional and environmental demands.

Solving supply chain challenges with a UK-based partner

We know that procurement and engineering teams need:

• fast, responsive communication
• on-time delivery
• full documentation
• a supplier who adds value.

By choosing Metaltech Precision, you benefit from:

• Local UK-based support
• Clear lead times and batch tracking
• Shorter shipping times and no import delays
• A team that works with you as a supply chain partner.

Whether you’re trying to improve component design, lower unit cost, or simply reduce project stress, our team is here to help.

Part of Expromet Technologies Group — strength in partnership

Metaltech Precision is proud to be part of Expromet Technologies Group, a UK-based group of advanced manufacturing companies that deliver engineered metal components and assemblies for global OEMs.

Being part of the group gives our customers more than just precision machining — it offers access to a diverse range of casting and engineering capabilities, all underpinned by a shared commitment to quality, technical expertise, and responsive service.

Expromet group companies and their capabilities:

Metaltech Precision
We specialise in CNC machining, particularly sliding head turning and multi-axis milling, with a focus on small, complex components in high volumes. Our capabilities include:

• Sliding head machining (2mm–35mm diameter)
• Milling, turning, and finishing
• Lights-out production for cost-effective supply
• AS9100 and JOSCAR-accredited quality systems

Haworth Castings
Experts in high-integrity sand and gravity die casting, Haworth Castings produces components for aerospace, defence, energy and industrial markets. Capabilities include:

• Aluminium and non-ferrous castings
• Fully integrated machining, finishing and NDT testing
• ISO9001 and JOSCAR-accredited facilities

Investacast
A leading provider of investment casting, pressure die casting and CNC machining, with both UK and international production routes. Investacast is known for:

• Complex near-net-shape components
• Prototyping to volume production
• Global sourcing with UK project management

Expromet Asia Inc
Opened in the Philippines in 2024, this facility expands the group’s capacity to serve global customers with machined components, while supporting cost-sensitive production and strategic reshoring initiatives.

By working with Metaltech Precision, you gain access to this integrated group of engineering specialists — whether you need a single CNC-turned component or a fully machined and cast assembly with global supply support. It’s manufacturing synergy that works for you.

Looking for a consolidated supplier for cast and machined parts? Expromet can help streamline your supply chain.

Why customers choose Metaltech Precision

Our clients choose us because we combine technical precision with reliable service. What sets us apart is:

• Swiss-turn CNC turning from Ø 2 mm – Ø 32 mm
• Trusted by leaders in medical, aerospace, semiconductors, defence and more
• AS9100-accredited, UK-based precision supplier
• Lights-out production for speed and scale
• Experience across a range of materials
• Part of Expromet Technologies Group
• Deep expertise in sliding head machining
• Fast, repeatable supply of tight tolerance turned parts
• Problem-solving support from prototyping to full production
• Strong relationships built on trust, quality and delivery

If you’re looking for a cost-effective CNC machining partner for small parts, Metaltech Precision is here to help. From one-off development to full-scale production, we deliver what matters: precision, reliability and scale.

Speak with our team today

FAQs: Sliding head machining and precision component supply

What is sliding head machining used for?

Sliding head machining is ideal for producing small, high-precision turned parts with complex features, especially in large volumes. It’s used across industries like medical, aerospace, semiconductors, and defence for components such as connectors, pins, valves, housings, and fasteners.

What size parts can Metaltech Precision machine?

We manufacture turned parts ranging from 2mm to 32mm in diameter, using multi-axis Swiss-type sliding head machines. This makes us ideally suited for small diameter components with tight tolerances and complex geometries.

Can sliding head machining reduce cycle times?

Yes. Sliding head lathes are designed for efficient, high-speed machining, and our tooling, programming, and lights-out production strategies help significantly reduce machining cycle time, especially on repeat or long-run batches.

Is Metaltech a UK-based sliding head subcontractor?

Yes, Metaltech Precision operates from our facility in the UK and is part of Expromet Technologies Group. We are a reliable UK sliding head subcontractor, providing quality machining with full traceability, responsive service, and no cross-border delays.

 What industries use sliding head machined components?

Sliding head machining is widely used in:

• Medical devices (surgical instruments, implants)
• Aerospace and defence (actuation parts, fittings)
• Semiconductors and electronics (connectors, enclosures)
• Industrial automation (sensor mounts, motor components)
• Automotive (small precision parts for EV and hybrid motors)

Can you produce repeat batches of small parts?

Yes. We specialise in repeatable, high-volume manufacturing. Our sliding head machines are optimised for consistent performance across long runs, with in-process inspection to maintain quality throughout production.

What materials do you machine?

We work with a wide variety of metals, including:

• Brass (ideal for high-speed connectors and electronics)
• Stainless steel (medical, aerospace, defence)
• Titanium (surgical and high-strength parts)
• Aluminium (lightweight and cost-effective)
• Remko Soft Iron (used in rail and other magnetic assemblies)

We can advise on material selection to balance cost, machinability and performance.

Do you offer end-to-end support?

Yes. From prototype to production, we support every stage of the project. Our team works closely with customers on design for manufacture, material selection, and batch planning to ensure reliable delivery.

Can you help with tight tolerance requirements?

Absolutely. Sliding head machining excels at maintaining tight concentricity and dimensional tolerances. We also perform in-process measurement and final inspection using calibrated equipment to ensure every part meets spec.

How does being part of Expromet Technologies Group benefit me?

As part of Expromet Technologies Group, Metaltech Precision offers more than CNC machining. You gain access to group-wide capabilities including casting (sand, investment, pressure die), machining, and international supply support, all under one trusted engineering umbrella.