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Reducing cost, protecting parts, and expanding machining capability
Machine shops are built around one core capability: making parts. Yet when it comes to internal splines, many shops still send the work to outside broaching specialists.
For some applications, outsourcing may be necessary. However, many internal and external splines can be produced on existing CNC equipment with the proper tooling and programming. Bringing this process in house gives shops greater control over production while reducing costs and unnecessary risk.
The Hidden Cost of Outsourcing Splines
When a spline is outsourced, the cost often extends far beyond the broaching operation itself.
Many shops invest significant time and money machining a part before it ever reaches the spline operation. The part is then packaged, shipped to another company, broached, shipped back, and inspected before production can continue.
Additional costs can include:
- Outside broaching services
- Shipping and handling
- Longer lead times
- Scheduling delays
- Additional part handling
Every extra step adds time, expense, and opportunities for something to go wrong.
Protecting Finished Parts
By the time a part is ready for broaching, much of the machining has already been completed. Sending a nearly finished component outside the shop introduces additional risk.
Damage during shipping, handling, or fixturing can delay production and increase costs. Even if only a small percentage of parts are affected, the impact can be significant for high-value components.
Completing the spline in the same setup where the part is machined reduces handling and helps maintain control throughout the manufacturing process.
Expanding Shop Capability
One reason splines are commonly outsourced is that they are often viewed as highly specialized features requiring dedicated equipment or outside expertise.
Modern CNC broaching offers another option.
With the proper tooling, setup, and programming, many internal splines can be produced directly on a CNC lathe or mill. Instead of relying on another company to complete the operation, shops can integrate spline broaching into their existing machining process.
Adding this capability allows shops to take on more work without adding another dedicated machine to the floor.
Keeping Knowledge and Profit in Your Shop
Every process performed in house builds experience. As machinists become familiar with programming, setup, and tooling for internal splines, the shop develops knowledge that can be applied to future projects.
That knowledge has value. It reduces dependence on outside vendors, improves quoting confidence, and gives shops greater flexibility when new jobs arrive.
Producing more of the finished part internally also means more of the value stays within the business instead of being passed to subcontractors.
A Smarter Approach to Spline Manufacturing
Outsourcing will always have a place for certain applications, but it should not be the default simply because a part requires an internal spline.
For many machine shops, CNC broaching makes it possible to produce splines on equipment already in use every day. By reducing secondary operations, minimizing part handling, and keeping more of the manufacturing process under one roof, shops can improve efficiency while expanding their capabilities.
The ability to machine internal splines in house is more than a convenience. It is an opportunity to increase control, protect valuable parts, and strengthen the overall manufacturing process.
