Category: Materials

Discover the Benefits of Different Aluminum Finishing Types and Their Surface Styles Introduction Aluminum is one of the most versatile materials available for a variety of different applications. It is lightweight, strong, and easily malleable. As such, it is often used in construction, engineering, and other industries. To ensure that aluminum components can withstand the rigors of their application, they must be treated with the right type of finishing. Aluminum finishing is the process of protecting aluminum components from corrosion and other environmental factors, as well as providing them with a desired aesthetic. In this article, we will explore the…

Machining Delrin: Tips, advantages & applications Delrin is a polyoxymethylene (POM) thermoplastic used in machining applications for its excellent strength and high wear resistance. This material is also known by other brand names such as Acetal, Polyacetal, and Hostaform. It is typically used in applications that require high strength and stiffness with low friction, such as gears, bearings, bushings, and fasteners. Delrin machining can be done with a variety of tools, including milling, turning, drilling, tapping, and grinding. However, there are important tips to keep in mind when machining Delrin. Here are some tips for successful Delrin machining: - Use…

Elastomeric Parts: Injection Molding Silicone vs 3D Printing Flexible Materials Elastomeric parts are gaining popularity due to their flexibility and durability. They are used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, medical, and consumer goods. Manufacturers are increasingly turning to elastomeric parts as a cost-effective and reliable solution. However, there are two main techniques for producing elastomeric parts – injection molding and 3D printing flexible materials. Injection Molding Silicone Injection molding is the most common method for producing elastomeric parts. The process involves injecting molten silicone into a mold cavity that has been machined to the desired shape. This…

Maximizing Polycarbonate Material Properties with PC-ABS Introduction Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material with a wide range of applications. It is used in everything from automotive components to electronics and medical devices. The material has excellent toughness, transparency, stiffness, and chemical resistance. However, these properties are not always enough for certain applications. That’s where PC-ABS comes in. In this article, we’ll explore what PC-ABS is and how it can be used to maximize the properties of polycarbonate materials. What is PC-ABS? PC-ABS is a blend of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). ABS is a thermoplastic polymer that is tough and…

Machining Teflon/PTFE: Tips, advantages & applications Teflon (also known as PTFE) is a highly versatile and temperature-resistant polymer. It is used in a wide range of applications, ranging from medical implants to non-stick cookware. However, machining this material can be challenging due to its slippery surface and tendency to wear out tools. In this article, we will discuss the tips, advantages, and applications of machining Teflon/PTFE. We will also provide some practical advice on how to achieve the best results when working with this material. Tips for Machining Teflon/PTFE When machining Teflon/PTFE, it is important to take certain precautions. Here…

Comparing Thermoplastics and Thermosets: What's the Difference? Introduction Plastics are all around us, and they come in many shapes and sizes. Two of the most common types of plastic are thermoplastics and thermosets. If you want to know what makes them different from each other, this article can help. We’ll be looking at the definition of thermoplastics and thermosets, their similarities and differences, and their uses. Read on to find out more about these two types of plastics. What is a Thermoplastic? A thermoplastic is a type of plastic that is malleable when heated and hardens when cooled. This means…

Polypropylene: What it is and How It's Used in Manufacturing Introduction Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer that has become increasingly popular in manufacturing due to its versatility and durability. It has many applications, from automotive parts to medical equipment. In this article, we’ll explore what polypropylene is, its properties, and how it is used in various manufacturing processes. What Is Polypropylene? Polypropylene, also known as polypropene, is a thermoplastic polymer used to make a variety of products. It is derived from petroleum and is a type of plastic that is strong, flexible, and lightweight. It can be molded into different…