What is a near-net shape?
Abbreviation: NNS
A near-net shape is a blank or preform cut or cast very close to its final dimensions, minimizing the amount of machining or material removal needed to finish the part.
Related Terms
Metal Blank
A metal blank is a flat piece of metal cut to a specific size or shape, ready to be formed, stamped, machined, or processed further. It's the starting material before a part is finished.
Preform
A preform is a roughly shaped piece of metal that has been partially worked but not yet brought to final dimensions. It is an intermediate step between raw stock and a finished part.
Billet
A billet is a solid block or bar of metal — usually square or round — cut from rolled or cast stock, used as input material for forging, extrusion, or heavy machining.
Nest Blank
A nest blank is a blank cut from a sheet using an optimized nesting layout, where multiple part shapes are arranged to minimize scrap. Common in laser and plasma cutting shops.