Research and development doesn't follow production schedules. You need parts machined from incomplete drawings, modified on the fly, or fabricated from concepts that are still evolving. You need a machine shop that understands how R&D works.
We've been supporting Seattle-area aerospace companies, rocket manufacturers, and advanced technology firms for years. We know how to work when the design isn't final yet.
WHO WE WORK WITH
Aerospace & Space Companies: We machine prototype components, test fixtures, and one-off parts for rocket propulsion systems, spacecraft components, and aerospace testing equipment. From small precision parts to large structural test fixtures.
Defense Contractors: System for Award Management approved vendor (CAGE Code: 7JUK4) with experience in defense and military applications requiring quality documentation and traceability.
Advanced Manufacturing: R&D departments at manufacturing companies developing new products, testing concepts, and building proof-of-concept prototypes.
Industrial R&D Facilities: Companies developing new industrial equipment, automation systems, and specialized machinery.
University & Research Labs: Custom fixtures, test apparatus, and experimental equipment for research projects.
WHAT MAKES R&D WORK DIFFERENT
Designs Change: We understand that what you send us today might be revised tomorrow. We can work iteratively, machining the first version, then modifying it based on test results.
Incomplete Information: Sometimes you don't have final drawings yet. We can work from sketches, CAD models in progress, or design discussions to get you parts for initial testing.
Material Experimentation: Testing different materials to see what works? We're equipped to machine a wide range of materials including exotic alloys, composites, and engineered plastics.
Quick Turnaround for Iteration: R&D moves fast. We can typically turn prototype parts in 3-5 days, faster for urgent tests.
Single Parts, Not Production Runs: We specialize in one-offs and small quantities. Making one complex prototype part is what we do best.
PROTOTYPE SERVICES WE PROVIDE
CNC Machining from CAD Models: Send us your STEP, IGES, or other CAD files. We import directly to our CNC equipment and can start machining quickly.
Conventional Machining: For one-off parts, sometimes conventional methods are faster than programming. Our experienced machinists can work from drawings using manual and DRO-equipped machines.
Test Fixtures & Tooling: Custom fixtures for testing, assembly jigs, inspection gauges, and tooling that supports your development process.
Reverse Engineering: Have a concept part that needs to be measured and reproduced? We can create working drawings from physical samples.
Design Collaboration: Our machinists average 20+ years experience. They can offer input on manufacturability, suggest material choices, and identify potential machining challenges before you commit to a design.
Modifications & Iterations: Bring back a prototype that needs changes. We'll modify the existing part or machine a revised version based on your test results.
MATERIALS FOR R&D
We work with materials common in aerospace and advanced manufacturing:
Aerospace Alloys
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Aluminum (6061, 7075, 2024, QQA specifications)
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Titanium (Grade 2, Grade 5/6Al-4V)
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Stainless steel (300 series, 400 series, 15-5, 17-4PH)
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Inconel and nickel alloys (600, 625, 718)
Structural Materials
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Carbon steel and alloy steels
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Tool steels (pre-hardened and heat-treatable)
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Manganese steel
Specialty Materials
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Copper and copper alloys
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Bronze and brass
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Engineering plastics (Delrin, UHMW, Torlon, PEEK)
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Composites and laminates
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SUPPORTING YOUR DEVELOPMENT TIMELINE
R&D projects have unpredictable timelines. Sometimes you need parts next week. Sometimes the project gets delayed and parts aren't needed for months. We work with both situations.
Rush When Needed: When your test schedule demands it, we can prioritize your work for fast turnaround.
Flexible Scheduling: If your timeline shifts, we adapt. We won't penalize you for R&D realities.
Staged Deliveries: Need parts in phases as your design evolves? We can schedule multiple delivery dates as you progress through development stages.
QUALITY & DOCUMENTATION FOR R&D
Development work still requires quality control, especially in aerospace and defense:
Inspection & Verification: We have calibrated measurement equipment and can provide dimensional inspection reports.
Material Certifications: We can provide material certs for aerospace and defense applications requiring traceability.
First Article Inspection: Full documentation for prototype parts transitioning to production.
Quality Manual: Our quality system supports customers working under AS9100, ISO 9001, and government quality requirements.
WORKING WITH YOUR ENGINEERING TEAM
Good R&D machining is collaborative. We work directly with your engineers and designers:
Design Feedback: Our machinists can review designs and suggest modifications that improve manufacturability without compromising function.
Manufacturing Process Input: Advice on tolerances, surface finishes, and feature design that affect machining time and cost.
Material Recommendations: Suggestions on material selection based on your application requirements and machinability.
Problem Solving: When unexpected challenges come up during machining, we contact you immediately to discuss options rather than making assumptions.
CAPACITY FOR R&D WORK
Small Precision Parts: Our tool room equipment handles precision components with tight tolerances.
Large Prototypes: With large part turning and milling capacity, we can handle prototype parts that exceed most shops' capabilities.
Complex Parts: Flexible machines and experienced manual machinists who can tackle challenging features.
COORDINATING ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Prototype development often requires more than just machining. We work with trusted local partners and can coordinate:
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Welding and fabrication
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Heat treating and stress relief
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Anodizing and chemical conversion coatings
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Powder coating and painting
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Gear cutting and splining
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EDM and wire EDM
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Non-destructive testing
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Assembly
We manage the process so you're working with one point of contact instead of chasing multiple vendors.
SEATTLE AEROSPACE & MANUFACTURING COMMUNITY
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We're part of the Seattle and Puget Sound manufacturing ecosystem supporting aerospace, defense, and advanced technology companies. We understand the pace of development work in this region and the quality standards required.
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Located in Seattle's Industrial District with easy access from I-5 and close to Boeing Field, we're convenient for local aerospace and manufacturing firms.
CONFIDENTIALITY
R&D work often involves proprietary designs and confidential information. We maintain strict confidentiality and can execute NDAs as required.
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PRICING FOR R&D WORK
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Prototype and R&D work is quoted individually based on complexity, material, and timeline. We provide complete quotes that account for:
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Engineering time and setup
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Material costs (we can use your supplied material)
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Machining time
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Inspection requirements
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Any outside services needed
For ongoing R&D relationships, we can establish framework agreements that streamline quoting for multiple small projects.
GET STARTED
Contact us to discuss your R&D machining needs:
Phone: (206) 767-2688
Email: info@washingtonmachineworks.com
Send us CAD files, drawings, or sketches. Describe your timeline and application. We'll review your project and provide a quote within 24 hours.
For aerospace and defense work, include any specific material requirements, certifications needed, or quality documentation your project requires.
CASE EXAMPLES
Rocket Test Fixture: Machined a large aluminum test fixture for a propulsion system test stand, working from preliminary CAD models that were refined during fabrication.
Prototype Valve Bodies: Produced single-piece prototype valve housings from Inconel for high-temperature testing, then modified designs based on test results.
Aerospace Structural Test Parts: Machined titanium and aluminum test articles for structural load testing, meeting aerospace material specifications and providing full documentation.
We understand that today's R&D prototype might become tomorrow's production part - or it might lead to a completely different design. Either way, we're here to support your development process with quality machining and realistic timelines.