What Is Plastic Machining
Plastic machining is the process of cutting, shaping, and finishing plastic materials to create a specific design or product. This can include CNC milling, drilling, turning, grinding, and other methods. Plastic machining is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and electronics to produce plastic components that meet precise specifications. It is ideal for creating complex shapes, prototypes, and low-volume production runs. Plastic machining can be performed on a wide range of plastic materials, including ABS, acrylic, polycarbonate, Delrin, and nylon.
Advantages of Plastic Machining
Machining Plastic Takes Less Time than Molding It
Another huge benefit of machining plastic parts rather than using molding is that it reduces mistakes. The fabrication process is not only done quickly, but it is able to produce consistent, precise parts, so you'll spend less time having to correct them. This is all thanks to the repetition involved in the manufacturing process. Molding plastic, on the other hand, increases the chance of both mistakes and injuries occurring. Therefore, you might spend more time redoing your parts and shopping for new material. Further, if you get injured, you might spend a lot of time out of work to recover from your injuries.
Machined Plastic is Easily Accessible
The natural materials that make up plastic are in high supply, and thankfully, it can be made efficiently. This efficiency allows manufacturers to always make enough plastic for companies to sell at stores. And with so much supply, stores can afford to sell it for a lower cost than metal. As such, plastic is accessible to a wide range of individuals, so many different industries can use it to create products that help people complete everyday tasks. It allows us to buy school and office supplies, hygiene products, sports equipment, computers, toys, electronics, etc.
Machining Plastic Produces Less Waste than Other Methods
Since machining plastics parts prevents mistakes from happening, it means that you will use less material. Therefore, you avoid throwing away extra materials and polluting the environment. In addition to less material waste, machining plastics is faster than molding plastic or making metal. Therefore, fewer fuel emissions will be released into the environment. Less waste and fewer toxic chemicals from machining plastic might not sound like a huge deal; however, just a little bit of effort from one person's part can add up. Additionally, many plastic part manufacturers have eco-friendly programs in place. This could include recycling excess material, minimizing packaging waste, and having a sustainable transportation plan.
Machined Plastic Parts Are More Durable
You might think that metal is better than plastic material because it is thicker. However, even though plastic is thin and lightweight, it is more durable than metal. This is because, unlike metal, plastic is a good thermal insulator. Since plastic's electrons move slowly and can only be moved from using vibrations, it does not produce heat. Therefore, it can regulate temperatures in businesses that rely on maintaining a specific environment. Furthermore, plastic is a good electrical insulator. So, thanks to all of plastic's insulation properties, everyday products such as toys, hairbrushes, hairdryers, dishwashing machines, and laundry appliances are easier and safer to use. Overall, plastic's durability and flexibility allow it to make items of many shapes.
Machined Plastic is Chemical-Resistant
Without extra finishing and coating, metal parts are unable to stand up against common chemicals. Polymer materials such as plastic, on the other hand, are chemical-resistant, which means it will not have an unsafe chemical reaction. Thus, plastic products can last longer under tough situations—even some of the harshest chemicals out there won't damage plastic parts. As such, industries that deal with chemicals and intense processing procedures will choose plastic over metal because they don't need to worry about paying extra to protect the parts as well as constantly having to replace them.
Machined Plastic Parts Allow for Radiolucency
For industries where precision is incredibly important while working in high-stress environments, plastic material proves to be a better choice over metal. This is because it's radiolucent, meaning it permits the passage of radiant energy without being harmful. Plastic parts offer a clear view for the user, so they can see exactly what they're working with. Metal parts would only obstruct their view, leading to the possibility of mistakes, which could be detrimental during operations that require precision.
Material:PC,POM,Acetal,Delrin,Nylon,PA, PA6+GF30, Teflon, PTFE,PVC, PMMA, PEI,Ultem,PEEK,PE,HDPE,UHMWPE,PE1000,etc. Process:CNC turning, CNC milling, Surface treament:Painting, Powder coating, Polishing,etc
Why Choose Us
Fast and Reliably Delivery
Iterate part designs quickly and accelerate product development with quick-turn parts. Our automated design analysis will help spot any difficult to machine features before your design is sent to the manufacturing floor and save you from costly reworks further down the product development cycle.
Advanced Capabilities
Get anodizing, tighter tolerances, and volume pricing options through our network of manufacturers at Hubs. You'll find plating (black oxide, nickel), anodizing (Type II, Type III), and chromate coating in larger part quantities; tolerances down to ±0.001 in. (0.020mm); and cost-efficient machined parts at higher volumes to lower piece-part price.
Manufacturing Analysis and Online Quotes
When you upload your 3D CAD file to request a quote, we'll analyze your part geometry to identify any features that may be difficult to machine such as tall, thin walls or holes that cannot be threaded.
Infinite Capacity
Eliminate downtime spent waiting for parts and safeguard in-house machining with on-demand relief and infinite manufacturing capacity.
5 Common Applications for Plastic Machining
Medical devices
Plastic Machining is an excellent choice for medical devices and components due to the inherent precision afforded by the method. Medical device manufacturers trust CNC machining to produce identical, intricate parts reliably.
The design flexibility allowed by the process is also advantageous. Engineers can easily change or manipulate digital design files to achieve their desired part, rendering the creation of personalized medical devices like dental surgical guides or cardiac implants quick and easy. Further, there are many off the shelf medical-grade materials available for CNC machining.
Food and beverage industry parts
As U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations evolve and consumers increasingly demand healthy, sustainable food and beverage manufacturing, the demand for high-quality food service equipment is higher than ever. Food and beverage industry manufacturers need parts that are tough enough to work around the clock, but safe and gentle enough to come into contact with the foods people eat every day.
CNC machining helps engineers achieve this delicate balance. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), a popular plastic used in CNC machining, is a stain-, wear-, odor-, and solvent-resistant plastic that meets all FDA, USDA, and 3-A Dairy requirements. It can be used to make everything from spray bars to assembly line parts.
Semiconductor parts
Semiconductive parts offer an intermediate level of electrical conductivity, classified somewhere between a conductor and an insulator. Semiconductive parts are used in a range of electronic devices, including diodes, integrated circuits, transistors, and more. They are shockproof, typically compact, and can last almost a lifetime.
Building these parts would not be possible without plastic CNC machining. Semiconductor parts and assemblies are often highly intricate and demand extremely tight tolerances and high-polish surface finishes. The precision and mechanical strength enabled by CNC machining make this process ideal for the production of such parts. Plastic Machining produces tough parts with excellent electrical properties, which is ideal for applications such as electrical insulators, small circuits, gaskets, and watertight seals.
Automotive and aerospace parts
When it comes to manufacturing high-performance engineering parts and components for automotive and aerospace applications, CNC machining is an ideal method due to the wide variety of available plastics that meet strict regulations.
Functional testing
Plastic Machining can also be used to conduct functional testing when a small batch of a prospective parts must be made with the final material before beginning the injection molding process.
Suppose an engineer has a design for a custom gear that will be mass-produced using injection-molded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The engineer may be inclined to test the part by 3D printing it first; unfortunately, however, PTFE isn't 3D printable. CNC machining, on the other hand, is compatible with a much broader range of materials, including PTFE.
With CNC machining, engineers and product teams can machine a number of parts in the final material, conduct functional testing, verify the design, then release the design for mass production via injection molding.
How to Choose Your CNC Machining Plastic For Plastic Machining
ABS
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer with strong impact resistance, low electrical conductivity, and high chemical resistance. Due to its adaptability, ABS is widely beneficial and one of the known plastic compatible with CNC machining. Some applications where ABS is utilized are producing automobile components, toys, and sporting goods. On the other hand, while it is less expensive than other plastic materials, it is essential to note that it cannot sustain high temperatures for an extended period.
Nylon
Nylon is a polyamide polymer and a strong and durable plastic used for various purposes. It has good machinability, moderate flame resistance, and high strength, among other advantages. Nylon tolerates high temperatures and is resistant to wear. In addition, it is chemically and thermally resistant and has the rigidity and strength to withstand deformation under load conditions. These characteristics make it an excellent material for insulators, bearings, wheels, and consumer electronic enclosures. Nylon is a fantastic option for applications that require inexpensive, sturdy, and durable components. Electrical insulation, medical devices, circuit board mounting hardware, vehicle engine compartment components, and aerospace components are the most prevalent applications for nylon. Many of these applications serve as a cost-effective substitute for metals. Additionally, glass-filled nylon is a common material that is excellent for CNC machining.
Acrylic
PMMA (Poly Methyl Methacrylate) plastic is acrylic's chemical makeup, also known as Plexiglass and Luctie. PMMA is an alternative to glass and light pipes since it is durable, transparent, scratch-resistant, and impact-resistant. Additionally, it may be easily glued using acrylic cement. Other popular applications include vehicle light components, light tubes, tanks, display panels, clear enclosures, food storage containers, and lenses or other optical engineering components. If a machined surface requires transparency, it can be polished as an additional post-processing step. Acrylic surfaces that have been machined lose their clarity and acquire a frosted, translucent appearance. As a result, it is generally advisable to indicate whether or not an acrylic component should be left at a stock thickness to preserve transparency.
HDPE
HDPE is an abbreviation for high-density polyethylene. Its crystalline structure makes it naturally opaque and waxy, but it can also be dyed black. HDPE offers excellent chemical resistance, electrical insulation, and a slick surface. It has a low friction coefficient and good low-temperature impact resistance. Additionally, it is inexpensive and durable for CNC-machined plastic parts. HDPE is used in gasoline tanks, plastic bottles, fluid pipes, and other applications. Due to its chemical resistance and slipperiness, it is ideal for producing plugs and seals, but it is also an excellent option for weight-sensitive or electrically sensitive applications. The sole disadvantage of this material for CNC machining would be its low strength, particularly in tension and bending, making it susceptible to stress fractures.
Delrin or POM
Delrin or Polyoxymethylene (POM) is a suitable CNC machining plastic for high-friction, tight-tolerance, or stiff applications. Its reliability and durability make it popular in commercial markets. In addition, Delrin has the advantage of its superior resistance to impact, chemicals, moisture, and fatigue. Delrin is utilized in gears, bearings, bushings, fasteners, assembly jigs, automotive, construction, and electronics components. The downside, however, is that Delrin's slipperiness makes it difficult to glue. The material's inherent tensions make it warp-prone in thin or asymmetrically removed portions. Overheating Delrin or POM can cause harmful off-gassing.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is the most durable plastic for CNC machining. In addition, it is one of the world's most frequently CNC-machined and recycled plastics. It is offered commercially in a black hue, despite its inherent milky-blue transparency, which is glossy. Polycarbonate offers strong impact resistance, rigidity, and temperature stability. It is 250 times more impact-resistant than glass and more resilient than acrylic. This quality makes it suitable for robust, transparent plastic applications, such as CDs, DVDs, mobile phones, and bulletproof glass. Additionally, pure polycarbonate is scratchable and wears quickly, which is why it is post-processed with anti-scratch coatings and vapor polishing to improve wear resistance or optical clarity.
The Bottom Line
In terms of functional qualities, many plastics can replace metals. And CNC machining is the most excellent alternative if you want to work with a challenging plastic material or produce complex prototypes with enhanced structural strength! ProCam Services LLC can create prototypes or mass quantities of sophisticated, precision-machined components with extremely tight tolerances. We process many materials, including plastic, aluminum, and stainless steel. We've been known for precisely meeting deadlines and producing high-quality work for years. Learn more about our services and capabilities by contacting us today!
5 Common Applications for Plastic CNC Machining
Plastic CNC machining is an excellent choice for medical devices and components due to the inherent precision afforded by the method. Medical device manufacturers trust CNC machining to produce identical, intricate parts reliably.
The design flexibility allowed by the process is also advantageous. Engineers can easily change or manipulate digital design files to achieve their desired part, rendering the creation of personalized medical devices like dental surgical guides or cardiac implants quick and easy. Further, there are many off the shelf medical-grade materials available for CNC machining.
As U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations evolve and consumers increasingly demand healthy, sustainable food and beverage manufacturing, the demand for high-quality food service equipment is higher than ever. Food and beverage industry manufacturers need parts that are tough enough to work around the clock, but safe and gentle enough to come into contact with the foods people eat every day.
CNC machining helps engineers achieve this delicate balance. Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), a popular plastic used in CNC machining, is a stain-, wear-, odor-, and solvent-resistant plastic that meets all FDA, USDA, and 3-A Dairy requirements. It can be used to make everything from spray bars to assembly line parts.
Semiconductive parts offer an intermediate level of electrical conductivity, classified somewhere between a conductor and an insulator. Semiconductive parts are used in a range of electronic devices, including diodes, integrated circuits, transistors, and more. They are shockproof, typically compact, and can last almost a lifetime.
Building these parts would not be possible without plastic CNC machining. Semiconductor parts and assemblies are often highly intricate and demand extremely tight tolerances and high-polish surface finishes. The precision and mechanical strength enabled by CNC machining make this process ideal for the production of such parts. Plastic CNC machining produces tough parts with excellent electrical properties, which is ideal for applications such as electrical insulators, small circuits, gaskets, and watertight seals.
When it comes to manufacturing high-performance engineering parts and components for automotive and aerospace applications, CNC machining is an ideal method due to the wide variety of available plastics that meet strict regulations.
For example, our can perform at temperatures above 400°F and is frequently used to create fire blockers, airplane seat covers, and turbine engines. Plastic CNC machining might be one of the more expensive manufacturing processes available, but aerospace engineers can’t put a price on strength and durability when it comes to mission-critical parts.
Plastic CNC machining can also be used to conduct functional testing when a small batch of a prospective parts must be made with the final material before beginning the injection molding process.
Suppose an engineer has a design for a custom gear that will be mass-produced using injection-molded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The engineer may be inclined to test the part by 3D printing it first; unfortunately, however, PTFE isn't 3D printable. CNC machining, on the other hand, is compatible with a much broader range of materials, including PTFE.
With CNC machining, engineers and product teams can machine a number of parts in the final material, conduct functional testing, verify the design, then release the design for mass production via injection molding.
The realm of plastics machining revolves around the use of computer numerical control (CNC) machines to produce intricate plastic parts for various applications. CNC machining is a procedure known for its extreme accuracy. It begins with a CAD drawing, which is then converted into a computer program for the CNC system to operate. This manufacturing method is commonly used for processes such as ultrasonic welding, hole-punching, and laser cutting.
CNC Machines have enabled designers to create complex patterns on various materials, including:
●Aerospace parts
●Automotive components
●Decorations
●onsumer goods pieces
●Medical parts
This has revolutionized the design process of these components. However, when handling defense-related components, secure and responsible management of ITAR data is paramount. To ensure data security, it is crucial to regularly test security systems.
Key Techniques in Plastics Machining
In the realm of plastics machining, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathes hold a significant position. They are instrumental in creating complex designs that are otherwise unattainable with manual machines. The programming of CNC lathes can be done with G-code or specific proprietary code. When dealing with sensitive data like ITAR-regulated materials, robust access control measures are essential.
The world of plastics machining also heavily relies on milling techniques. CNC mills, much like lathes, can be programmed with G-code.
The final key technique in plastics machining is measuring with Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs). CMMs are used to measure the physical geometrical characteristics of an object. This measurement may be done in a number of ways including manually by an operator or it may be computer controlled. This technique allows for precise measurements, ensuring the accuracy and quality of the machined plastic parts.
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Ruixing was founded in 2005 and passed ISO9001-2015. We are specialized in machining services for 18 years more. We are your professional partner of machining parts.
Our service focus on the professional machining service for Industry Automation, Aerospace parts, Knitting Machine Parts, Instruments & Meters, Sensor, Medical Equipment, Beauty & Personal Care, Consumer electronics and hardware, etc.
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