CNC machining plays a pivotal role in the ever-evolving aerospace industry, where precision, reliability, and repeatability are non-negotiable. Whether it’s the structural components of an aircraft or the systems that support safe takeoffs and landings, CNC machining brings the high levels of accuracy and complexity that aerospace manufacturing demands.
Aerospace components require tight tolerances, exotic materials, and complex geometries—often beyond the scope of conventional manufacturing methods. That’s where modern CNC technologies come into play. From engine mounts to control systems, the demand for components that are lightweight, durable, and precise has never been higher.
At Ben Machine, we’ve been manufacturing complex aircraft components for decades. While we do not directly produce structural landing gear parts, our niche lies in the precision machining of avionics control units and control boxes used in landing gear systems—primarily in the defence aerospace sector.
In this article, we’ll explore the role of CNC machining in aerospace, discuss key applications and materials, and highlight how Ben Machine delivers high-precision, low-volume parts for mission-critical aerospace programs.
What Is Aerospace CNC Machining?
Aerospace CNC machining refers to the use of computer numerically controlled tools—like milling, turning, and drilling machines—to create complex parts for aircraft and spacecraft. Pre-programmed software guides these tools, telling the machine how to move, cut, and shape the material into a finished component.
Unlike many other sectors, aerospace machining demands near-zero error margins. Whether it’s a single prototype or a low-volume batch, consistent quality and accuracy are essential.
Modern 5-axis and multi-axis CNC machines enable the machining of highly intricate geometries in a single setup. This capability is critical in aerospace, where designs often require multiple angled surfaces and tight internal clearances.
To meet the expectations of the aerospace industry, manufacturers must also adhere to rigorous quality standards, such as AS9100. These certifications help ensure that the processes and final products meet strict requirements for safety, performance, and traceability.
Key Applications of Aerospace CNC Machining
CNC machining’s flexibility makes it indispensable in the aerospace industry, where aircraft are composed of millions of parts, many of which are custom-designed for specific models or missions. Multi-axis machining technology has enabled the industry to produce lighter, stronger, and more complex components efficiently and effectively.
Here are some of the most critical aerospace applications:
Airframe Components
Airframe structures require a balance of structural integrity and weight reduction. CNC machining enables the production of high-strength parts made from lightweight alloys, thereby enhancing overall performance and fuel efficiency.
Landing Gear Parts Production
Landing gear parts are highly complex and must withstand heavy loads, repeated impacts, and extreme environmental conditions. CNC machining ensures tight tolerances and material integrity.
While landing gear parts are a key aerospace application, Ben Machine’s focus lies in producing avionics control units essential to landing gear systems, mainly in defence aerospace.
Engine Component Fabrication
Jet engines involve extreme thermal and mechanical stress. CNC machining enables the production of engine mounts, housings, and brackets from heat-resistant alloys that perform reliably in harsh conditions.
Aerofoil and Wing Section Construction
Precision in these aerodynamic surfaces is critical to ensuring lift and control. CNC machining helps maintain surface smoothness and dimensional accuracy for optimal performance.
Hydraulic Systems Parts
These parts operate under high pressure and require consistent reliability. CNC-machined components ensure dependable fit and function over long operating cycles.
Cockpit Instrumentation Panels
Instrument panels must house sensitive equipment with exact placements. CNC machining ensures each opening and mounting point is accurate for seamless integration.
Custom Tooling for Aerospace Applications
Tooling must be durable and precisely machined to support the production of high-value aerospace parts. CNC machining allows for faster, more repeatable production of custom tooling.
Spacecraft Component Manufacturing
Space applications demand extreme precision and often involve exotic materials. CNC machining enables the achievement of tight tolerances necessary for systems operating in orbit or beyond.
Prototype Development
CNC machining plays a key role in rapid prototyping, allowing engineers to test new aerospace designs with functional components before committing to full-scale production.
Why Precision Matters in Aerospace CNC Machining
When it comes to aircraft components, precision isn’t just important—it’s critical. Aerospace parts must function reliably under extreme conditions, from high altitudes and rapid pressure changes to heavy mechanical loads and vibrations.
Tight tolerances are essential for several reasons:
- Aerodynamic efficiency: Parts such as wings, control surfaces, and fairings must maintain precise shapes to ensure optimal performance and fuel economy.
- Structural integrity: Misalignments or dimensional inconsistencies can lead to failure in load-bearing components.
- System performance: Avionics, hydraulics, and control systems rely on perfect fits to avoid malfunctions.
Even the slightest deviation can jeopardize safety—especially in systems like landing gear, where control units must engage precisely during every takeoff and landing. That’s why aerospace manufacturing relies on advanced CNC technologies, such as 5-axis machining centres, which enable the creation of complex parts with fewer setups and reduced errors.
At Ben Machine, we back our commitment to precision with multi-axis CNC machines, experienced machinists, and rigorous inspection processes that ensure every component meets the tight specifications required by the aerospace and defence industries.
CNC Machining’s Role in Landing Gear Manufacturing and Control Systems
Landing gear production is one of the most demanding areas in aerospace manufacturing. The components must withstand high loads, repeated landings, and varied environmental conditions—all without failure. This is an area where high-speed, 5-axis CNC machines shine, producing complex geometries with consistency and accuracy.
Our expertise lies in the precision machining of avionics control units and control boxes that manage the deployment and retraction of landing gear. These control systems are crucial for safe aircraft operation, especially in defence applications where reliability is paramount.
Function of Landing Gear Control Units
These components manage the hydraulic or electric actuation of landing gear, ensuring proper timing and sequence during takeoff and landing. These control units interface with onboard avionics and sensors, requiring high-precision machining and durable materials such as aluminum alloys and stainless steel for electromagnetic shielding, corrosion resistance, and weight reduction.
Avionics control boxes are often machined from high-strength aluminum alloys, stainless steel, and occasionally from exotic materials, depending on the requirements for electromagnetic shielding or weight. CNC machining provides the accuracy and repeatability needed to meet stringent aerospace specs.
At Ben Machine, our multi-axis CNC capabilities enable us to machine complex shapes, tight tolerances, and detailed internal features without compromising on quality. Every component is produced to meet or exceed AS9100 standards, ensuring performance and traceability throughout its lifecycle.
Materials and Quality Assurance in Aerospace CNC Machining
Different aerospace components require different materials depending on application demands such as strength, weight, thermal performance, or corrosion resistance. Selecting the right material is essential for ensuring strength, weight reduction, and long-term reliability in aerospace components. Common materials include:
- Titanium Alloys – Known for excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. Ideal for high-load or high-temperature areas.
- High-Strength Steels – Offer superior fatigue resistance and are used where toughness and durability are critical.
- Aluminum Alloys – Lightweight and easily machinable, common in avionics control boxes and housings.
- Specialty Alloys and Composites – Emerging materials include Inconel, carbon composites, and other exotic blends suited to unique aerospace needs.
Quality Assurance and Standards
In aerospace, quality is non-negotiable. Manufacturers must comply with industry-recognized certifications and implement rigorous controls throughout their production processes.
- AS9100 Certification – A quality management standard specific to aerospace that ensures robust procedures and continuous improvement.
- Inspection Methods – Tools such as coordinate measuring machines (CMM), optical comparators, and in-process monitoring confirm dimensional accuracy.
- Documentation and Traceability – Every part is tracked from raw material to finished product, with full traceability to meet regulatory requirements.
Material Handling and Precision
CNC programs are tailored to each material’s unique properties, from feed rates to cutting paths, to ensure tight tolerances, proper surface finishes, and repeatability across production runs.
At Ben Machine, our experience working with aerospace-grade materials allows us to deliver components that consistently meet demanding performance requirements—every time.
Why Choose Ben Machine for Aerospace CNC Machining?
At Ben Machine, we combine decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver precision-machined parts for the aerospace industry—particularly in the defence sector.
Our specialty is producing avionics control units and control boxes that support critical aircraft systems such as landing gear. These components require tight tolerances, complex geometries, and high reliability—areas where our multi-axis CNC capabilities shine.
Here’s what sets Ben Machine apart:
- Deep aerospace experience – We’ve been machining high-precision aerospace components for decades and understand the stakes involved.
- Customization and flexibility – Our high-mix, low-volume production model enables us to adapt quickly to unique part requirements and program needs.
- Advanced CNC capabilities – Our shop features multi-axis machining centres designed to handle complex geometries with accuracy and consistency.
- Quality-first mindset – We meet or exceed AS9100 standards and use advanced inspection tools to guarantee every part is up to spec.
- Client collaboration – We work closely with engineers and purchasers to ensure parts meet functional, timeline, and budget requirements.
Conclusion and Call to Action
CNC machining is a cornerstone of modern aerospace manufacturing. Its precision, repeatability, and flexibility enable manufacturers to meet the high demands of the industry—especially in critical systems such as those involved in landing gear operation.
If you’re looking for a CNC machining partner with deep aerospace expertise, advanced equipment, and a track record of quality and reliability, Ben Machine is here to help. We understand the importance of every part we produce and are committed to delivering solutions that meet your performance, compliance, and delivery goals.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your aerospace CNC machining needs with precision, consistency, and confidence.
