Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions.
Find answers to common questions about our metal finishing, machining, and fabrication services. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us directly.
General Questions
What services does Aerospace Metals provide?
We coordinate metal finishing (anodizing, plating, coating), CNC machining (milling and turning), metal fabrication (sheet metal, welding, assembly), and metal sales & processing. We act as your single point of contact, coordinating with our network of 50+ certified partner facilities across North America.
Do you own your own facilities?
No, and that’s our advantage. Rather than limiting you to one facility’s capabilities, we’ve built a vetted network of specialized shops. This gives you access to the best equipment and expertise for each specific project, unlimited scalability, and optimized logistics nationwide.
Where are you located?
Our headquarters is in O’Fallon, Missouri, but our partner network spans the United States, Canada, and Mexico. We optimize logistics to minimize shipping costs regardless of your location.
How long have you been in business?
Aerospace Metals was founded in 2012. Our owner, Paul Fredericks, has 33+ years of metal finishing industry experience and has owned and operated four metal finishing companies since 1987.
Who will I work with on my project?
You’ll have a dedicated project coordinator who manages your project from quote through delivery. All partner facilities are personally vetted by Paul Fredericks.
Services & Capabilities
What services do you offer?
Our core services include: Metal Finishing (anodizing, plating, coating, chemical treatments), CNC Machining (milling, turning, Swiss screw machining), Metal Fabrication (sheet metal, welding, assembly), and Metal Sales & Processing (materials supply and cutting services).
Can you handle both prototype and production quantities?
Yes. Our network includes facilities specializing in rapid prototyping (1-25 pieces), bridge production (25-500 pieces), and full production runs (500+ pieces). We scale with your needs.
What industries do you serve?
We serve aerospace, defense, medical devices, electronics, automotive, industrial equipment, food & beverage equipment, energy, and marine industries.
What materials can you work with?
Aluminum alloys, stainless steel, carbon steel, titanium, brass, copper, bronze, and engineering plastics. We also supply raw materials if needed.
Do you have minimum order quantities?
No strict minimums. We handle single prototypes to production quantities. Some finishing processes have economic order quantities we’ll discuss during quoting.
Quality & Certifications
What certifications do your partners have?
All partners maintain ISO 9001:2015 certification minimum. Specialized certifications available include: AS9100 Rev D (Aerospace), Nadcap (Aerospace/Defense), ITAR Registered (Defense), ISO 13485 (Medical Devices), and PPAP Capable (Automotive).
How do you ensure quality consistency across different facilities?
Every partner facility is personally vetted by Paul Fredericks and must meet our quality standards. We require: ISO 9001 certification minimum, documented quality management systems, regular performance reviews, complete traceability and documentation, and first article inspection for new projects.
What documentation do you provide?
Standard documentation includes: Material certifications, process certifications/conformance, dimensional inspection reports, First Article Inspection (FAI) reports, and Certificates of Conformance (C of C). Additional documentation available based on requirements.
Can you meet Mil-Spec requirements?
Yes. Our network includes facilities certified to numerous military specifications including MIL-A-8625 (anodizing), QQ-P-416 (cadmium plating), and many others. Specify your Mil-Spec requirements for proper facility matching.
Do you provide First Article Inspection?
Yes, First Article Inspection (FAI) is available and standard practice for aerospace/defense projects and whenever specified by customer requirements.
Quoting & Pricing
How do I request a quote?
Three ways: 1) Use our online quote request form, 2) Email specifications to info@aerospacemetalsllc.com, 3) Call (800) 398-0790 to discuss your project.
How quickly will I receive a quote?
Most quotes are delivered within 24-48 hours. Complex multi-process projects may take 2-3 business days.
What information do you need for accurate quotes?
For best results, provide: Part drawings (PDF, STEP, IGES, DXF, DWG), material specification, quantity needed, required finish/process, any special certifications or requirements, and target delivery date. If you don’t have complete information, contact us and we’ll help define requirements.
Are quotes really free?
Yes, quotes are completely free with no obligation.
What payment terms do you offer?
Net 30 for qualified accounts. Credit card and wire transfer accepted. Terms can be discussed based on project size and customer relationship.
Lead Times & Logistics
What are typical lead times?
Average lead times: Metal finishing: 7-14 days, CNC machining: 2-3 weeks (depends on complexity), Fabrication: 2-4 weeks (depends on complexity), Multi-process projects: 3-4 weeks. Rush service available for critical timelines.
Can you expedite urgent projects?
Yes. Our established relationships mean we can often get priority treatment for rush projects. Additional rush charges may apply. Contact us to discuss your timeline.
How do you handle shipping?
We coordinate all logistics and shipping. Standard options include: Ground freight (most cost-effective), LTL for larger shipments, expedited shipping available, and international shipping with export documentation. Shipping costs included in quotes.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide. Export documentation, customs paperwork, and compliance with international standards can be arranged as needed.
How do I track my order?
Your project coordinator provides regular updates throughout production and will provide tracking information when parts ship.
Technical Questions
How do I choose between different types of anodizing?
Average lead times: Metal finishing: 7-14 days, CNC machining: 2-3 weeks (depends on complexity), Fabrication: 2-4 weeks (depends on complexity), Multi-process projects: 3-4 weeks. Rush service available for critical timelines.
What's the difference between plating and coating?
Yes. Our established relationships mean we can often get priority treatment for rush projects. Additional rush charges may apply. Contact us to discuss your timeline.
Will finishing change my part dimensions?
We coordinate all logistics and shipping. Standard options include: Ground freight (most cost-effective), LTL for larger shipments, expedited shipping available, and international shipping with export documentation. Shipping costs included in quotes.
Can you help with finish selection?
Yes, we ship worldwide. Export documentation, customs paperwork, and compliance with international standards can be arranged as needed.
Project-Specific Questions
Can you handle multi-process projects (machining + finishing)?
Yes, this is one of our core strengths. We coordinate machining, fabrication, finishing, assembly, and testing across multiple facilities—giving you one quote, one timeline, and one quality standard.
Do you provide assembly services?
Yes. Our established relationships mean we can often get priority treatment for rush projects. Additional rush charges may apply. Contact us to discuss your timeline.
Can you match existing finishes or specifications?
We coordinate all logistics and shipping. Standard options include: Ground freight (most cost-effective), LTL for larger shipments, expedited shipping available, and international shipping with export documentation. Shipping costs included in quotes.
Captura de Pantalla roject requires capabilities you don't list?
Yes, we ship worldwide. Export documentation, customs paperwork, and compliance with international standards can be arranged as needed.
Getting Started
I'm not sure what I need. Can you help?
Absolutely. Describe your application, environment, and performance requirements. We’ll recommend the appropriate processes and materials.
Can I visit your facilities?
Our headquarters in O’Fallon, MO is open for visits by appointment. Partner facility visits can sometimes be arranged for large projects or special circumstances.
Do you offer samples or test runs?
Yes. For new processes or finishes, we can process sample parts before committing to full production.
How do I become a customer?
Simply request a quote for your first project. There’s no application process or minimum commitment required. We establish Net 30 terms for qualified accounts after successful initial orders.
What makes Aerospace Metals different from other metal finishing companies?
Network Advantage: Access to 50+ specialized facilities vs. one shop’s limitations. Expertise: 33 years of industry experience guiding process selection. Single Point of Contact: We coordinate everything, even multi-process projects. Quality Consistency: All partners vetted and ISO 9001 certified minimum. Scalability: From prototype to production without changing suppliers.