How to choose materials for CNC maching plastics

CNC maching plastic parts is one of the working method of the rapid prototyping, it’s the working method that used the CNC machines to maching the plastic block.

When making prototypes, do you always have the questions how to choose the material, below is the materials client’s used in commom.

1.ABS

ABS is a comprehensive general-purpose plastic. It has high strength, toughness and electrical resistance. It can be easily painted, glued, or welded together. It is the best choice when low-cost manufacturing is required.

Common applications: ABS is most commonly used to make electronic casings, home appliances, and even the iconic Lego bricks.

2.Nylon

Nylon is a strong, durable plastic suitable for a variety of uses. Nylon has high strength and stiffness, good electrical insulation, and good chemical and abrasion resistance. Nylon is ideal for applications that require low-cost, strong and durable components.

Nylon is most commonly found in medical devices, circuit board mounting hardware, automotive engine compartment components, and zippers. It is used as an economical replacement for metals in many applications.

3.PMMA

PMMA is acrylic, also known as plexiglass. It is tough, has good impact strength and scratch resistance, and can be easily bonded using acrylic cement. It is ideal for any application that requires optical clarity or translucence, or as a less durable but less expensive alternative to polycarbonate.

Common Applications: After processing, PMMA is transparent and is most commonly used as a lightweight replacement for glass or light pipes.

4. SEE

POM has a smooth, low friction surface, excellent dimensional stability and high stiffness.

POM is suitable for these or any other applications that require large amounts of friction, require tight tolerances, or require high stiffness materials. Typically used in gears, bearings, bushings and fasteners, or in the manufacture of assembly jigs and fixtures.

5.HDPE

HDPE is a very low density plastic with excellent chemical resistance, electrical insulation and smooth surface. It is ideal for making plugs and seals due to its chemical resistance and sliding properties, but is also a great choice for weight-sensitive or electrically sensitive applications. Common Applications: HDPE is commonly used in fluid applications such as fuel tanks, plastic bottles, and fluid flow tubes.

6.PC

PC is the most durable plastic. It has high impact resistance and stiffness. PC is best suited for applications that require a very hard or very strong plastic, or that require optical transparency. Therefore, PC is one of the most used and recycled plastics.

Common applications: PC’s durability and transparency mean it can be used to make things like optical discs, safety glasses, light pipes and even bulletproof glass.