While steel is one of the most used materials in precision machining, it is far from the only material that is used to construct items in this manner. Another commonly used material that is used in this process is plastic; it is a great material for many engineering applications thanks to its chemical, biological, and mechanical characteristics. Precision plastic machining is used quite often to fulfill tools and products used by many industries; learn more about precision plastic machining below.
Precision Plastic Machining: What It Entails
This type of machining involves the use of cutting machines, drill presses, mills, lathes, grinders, or other controlled machines by a computer program to create products or parts by breaking down a large block of solid plastic to specific dimensions using advanced machinery. This program enables the machinery to accurately repeat the same motions to break down the plastic into difficult geometric shapes, finishes, light tolerances, and optical clarity. This is done by precising removing layers from the plastic material being worked upon.
Common Types of Materials Used in This Process
There are some common types of materials used in this process. One type is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), a good low-cost material that is easy to machine and is heat resistant. A second type is nylon, which is also low-cost and has both good durability and strength. A third type is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which has a high strength/weight ratio, high machinability, is electrically insulative, and is both impact and chemical resistant. A fourth type is acrylic, which has high tensile strength, is resistant to cracks, readily accepts adhesives, and is scratch-resistant.
