Large-dimension CNC machining: key considerations for parts up to 20 metres
What is large-dimension CNC machining?
Large-dimension CNC machining is a manufacturing process that allows the production of oversized components — up to 20 metres in length — with the same precision applied to standard-sized parts. This type of machining requires specialised equipment, operators with proven experience, and thorough dimensional control.
At MECVIL, we have a technologically advanced CNC machine park that enables us to undertake large-format machining projects for highly demanding sectors such as rail, aerospace, heavy industry and energy.
Not every workshop can machine parts of this scale. It requires spacious facilities, heavy-duty overhead cranes, purpose-built tooling and, above all, a technical team familiar with the particularities of large-dimension CNC machining: thermal distortion, clamping strategies, and roughing and finishing sequences adapted to large volumes of material.
Technical capabilities for large-format parts
Our facilities in Sallent (Barcelona) offer more than 10,500 m² of productive floor space across four specialised bays. The CNC machining equipment includes:
- 5-axis machining centres for complex geometries and multi-face workpieces
- CNC lathes with high capacity for large-diameter and long-length parts
- Fixed-bed milling machines with longitudinal travels of up to 20 metres
- Precision grinding machines for high-quality surface finishes
- Coordinate measuring systems for full dimensional control at every stage
This combination of equipment allows us to handle everything from initial roughing to final finishing in-house, with no need to subcontract intermediate operations.
Do you have a large-dimension machining project?
Request a no-obligation quotation and our technical team will evaluate your drawings and specifications.
Sectors that require large-format machining
Large-dimension CNC machining is essential in industries where structural parts and critical components exceed the capabilities of conventional workshops. At MECVIL, we serve 13 industrial sectors, including:
- Rail: bogies, axles, frames and traction components that demand tight tolerances on multi-metre parts
- Aerospace: assembly tooling, structural aluminium components requiring high-precision machining
- Energy: components for turbines, generators and large-diameter hydraulic equipment
- Heavy manufacturing: machine beds, press frames and welded structures requiring guaranteed flatness and parallelism
- Chemical and petrochemical: vessels, reactors and components that must comply with specific material and finish standards
Each sector has its own requirements in terms of materials, tolerances and surface finishes. Our experience spanning more than 50 years enables us to adapt machining processes to the demands of each industry.
Why outsource the machining of large parts?
Subcontracting large-dimension machining to a specialist such as MECVIL offers significant advantages over in-house investment:
- Capital expenditure savings: large-format CNC equipment frequently requires investments exceeding one million euros, in addition to the industrial space needed to house it
- Accumulated expertise: more than 50 years machining complex parts for 13 industrial sectors, with a team of approximately +110 professionals
- Certified quality control: ISO 9001 and EN 1090 certifications, with full traceability documented for every part
- Single point of contact: quotations, planning, manufacturing and delivery managed by one engineering and production team
- Flexible capacity: ability to absorb production peaks without compromising your own resources or lead times
For companies that need large-part machining on an occasional basis or with variable demand, outsourcing eliminates fixed costs and the risk of investing in under-utilised machinery.
Dimensional control and traceability
Every part machined at MECVIL undergoes a dimensional verification process that guarantees compliance with the tolerances specified by the customer. We use coordinate measuring systems and document every stage of the process to ensure full traceability.
Our quality management system, certified to ISO 9001, defines the inspection protocols applied to each project:
- 1.Incoming raw material verification
- 2.In-process checks during critical machining stages
- 3.Final dimensional measurement with results report
- 4.Full lot documentation and traceability
EN 1090 certification additionally guarantees that the fabricated metal structures meet European construction standards.
Turnkey projects: from design to machining
MECVIL is more than a machining workshop. We offer a comprehensive 360° service that spans from design engineering through to final assembly and commissioning. This means we can optimise part design for machinability, reducing costs and lead times without sacrificing functionality.
If your project also requires electromechanical assembly or electrical integration, we have specialised departments working in close coordination under one roof.
Looking for a CNC machining partner for large-format parts?
At MECVIL, we combine state-of-the-art machinery with more than 50 years of experience. Contact our technical team to receive a detailed quotation.