CNC plastic material selection guide

CNC machining is a precise and efficient method for creating plastic parts for various industries. However, choosing the right plastic material is crucial to ensure that the final product meets your specifications and requirements. Here are some common plastic materials used for CNC machining, their advantages, disadvantages, suggested products, and specific data for their advantages:

Epoxy Sheet - FR4

Advantages: High strength (tensile strength up to 340 MPa), excellent electrical insulation (in 90 ± 2 ℃ transformer oil: ≥ 40KV), resistance to flame (FV0), and moisture.Disadvantages: Limited temperature resistance (up to 130°C) and brittle.

Suggested products: Circuit boards, electrical insulators, and aerospace and military components.

Bakelite

Advantages: High strength (compressive strength up to 260 MPa), durability, heat resistance (up to 160°C), and electrical insulation.Disadvantages: brittle and difficult to machine.

Suggested products: Electrical switches, automotive parts, and appliance components.

Cyclo-Steel-POM

Advantages: High strength, stiffness, wear resistance (low friction coefficient), and dimensional stability.Disadvantages: it is difficult to be machined and may require specialized equipment.

Suggested products: Gears, bearings, and precision mechanical components.

ABS Engineering Plastic

Advantages: Good impact resistance (notched impact strength up to 23 kJ/m2), toughness, and heat resistance (up to 80°C).Disadvantages: Low UV resistance and can warp under high temperatures.

Suggested products: Automotive parts, toys, and consumer products.

Polypropylene - PP

Advantages: Lightweight, chemical resistance (excellent resistance to acids, bases, and organic solvents), and low cost.Disadvantages: Low strength and it is difficult to be bonded or painted.

Suggested products: Packaging, medical devices, and automotive components.

Nylon - PA6

Advantages: High strength (tensile strength up to 80 MPa), durability, wear resistance (low friction coefficient), and low friction.Disadvantages: Absorbs moisture (up to 9% water absorption) and can warp under high temperatures.

Suggested products: Gears, bearings, and structural components.

Acrylic

Advantages: High transparency (light transmission up to 92%), optical clarity, and weather resistance.Disadvantages: Low impact resistance (notched impact strength around 0.5-1.5 kJ/m2) and can scratch easily.

Suggested products: Displays, signage, and medical devices.

Polycarbonate - PC

Advantages: High impact resistance (notched impact strength up to 100 kJ/m2), heat resistance (up to 130°C), and optical clarity.Disadvantages: Low chemical resistance and can be prone to stress cracking.

Suggested products: Safety goggles, automotive parts, and electronic components.

Conclusion

When a plastic material is selected for CNC machining, consider the mechanical properties, chemical resistance, thermal properties, cost, and machinability. It's essential to choose the right material for your specific application and requirements. Consult with a CNC machining service provider to help you make the right choice.

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