DATUM Machine LTD

07/09/2026

When you’re new to machining, drilling a hole seems simple: just plunge straight in, right? 🤔

But depending on the carbide tool, the material and the depth of the hole, plunging straight down can create more cutting force, chip buildup and vibration — increasing the risk of tool breakage or damage to the workpiece.

Sometimes, the better approach is to mill around the perimeter instead. This can help improve chip evacuation and give the machinist more control over the cut. ⚙️

There’s no single “correct” way. There’s the way that fits this job.

Knowing which approach to choose, every single time, is what separates a skilled machinist from someone who’s simply running a machine. 🛠️

25/08/2026

Not every part you need is available off the shelf.

This control box for our DGM-S1 was machined and engraved in-house using the machine itself, before being assembled and installed for everyday workshop use.

It’s a small but practical example of what we can produce: custom control boxes, permanent labels and markings, scales, and one-off components for engineering, restoration and specialist projects.

If you have a part that needs machining or engraving, send us a message. We’re based in Wellington and happy to discuss what you need.

12/08/2026

When a customer brings in an idea or a drawing, the first step is a good conversation.

Understanding what they want, designing the piece together, and working out the most cost-effective approach.🔧

16/07/2026

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever made?

We asked Zak.

His answer wasn’t one specific job.

🎥 Watch to hear what makes a project truly interesting.

09/07/2026

Not every CNC job starts with a block of metal.

This time, a Wellington percussionist brought us an aluminium snare drum shell.

The job was to machine the snare beds with controlled depth and geometry, while working with an already-formed shell.

One-off parts welcome.

06/07/2026

Ever wonder what actually happens before a part gets machined at DATUM? 🔧👀

A customer recently asked us to machine a brass star for a pathway - sounds simple, right?

They'd asked for Naval Brass, a material known for holding up well over time. But before jumping straight to the machine, we asked one question we always ask first: where and how will this actually be used?

That question opened up a bigger conversation. We looked at a few different brass options, thinking about how long each one would last, how easy it'd be to work with, and what actually made sense for a pathway. We also took a closer look at the design itself, since some edges needed a bit of extra care to keep things safe.

The job's still in progress - Zak's got a sample ready to go once the final opening is cut into the pathway.
It's a good reminder of something we care about at DATUM: precision isn't just about following instructions exactly. It's about understanding what a part is really for, then making exactly what's needed - not a gram more. ⚙️💪

23/06/2026

Most people have heard of CNC machines. But what actually is a CNC gantry mill?

We've just published the first article in our new CNC Basics series - breaking down what a gantry mill is, how it works, and why manufacturers choose them for precision work.

No engineering degree required. Just a straight-up explanation from the team at DATUM.

Give it a read, and let us know what CNC topics you'd like us to cover next. 👇

https://datum-cnc.com/what-is-a-cnc-gantry-mill/

A CNC gantry mill uses a bridge-style gantry to move a cutting spindle over a fixed workpiece. Learn how it works and how it differs from a CNC router.

11/06/2026

RockPots will be on display at the NZ Bonsai Expo this October. 🌿

Swipe to see:

the finished pots
the machine and stone behind them
Mario’s leafless bonsai, courtesy of Zak 😂

The pots are expo-ready.
The bonsai... not quite.

📍 Lower Hutt Events Centre
https://wellingtonbonsai.nz/
📅 9–11 October 2026

05/06/2026

Ever wonder why someone decides to build a machine from scratch?

For Zak, it started with a simple question: why doesn't something like this exist here in New Zealand?

He opens up about the gap he saw in the NZ CNC industry - and the ideas that just wouldn't leave him alone.
It's the kind of conversation that reminds you great products come from real frustration, real experience, and a whole lot of "what if."

Worth a watch. 👇

15/05/2026

Event countdown is ON - and so is Zak. 🔧

Our newest machine is taking shape in the workshop, just in time for the big reveal.
Stay tuned - we'll see you at the expo. 🥳