Some methods of fabrication have remained almost as they were when they first were created. While variations have evolved, and adaptions have been made, little else has changed. This has been true in the field of machining until fairly recently. The process remained traditional and conventional. Today, however, technology has made a significant step towards automation and less hands-on involvement. This has been brought about through the employment of computerized services. The result has been CNC plastic machining.
Explaining CNC Plastic Machining
CNC is short for computer numerical control. CNC plastic machining is a method of using computers to automate much of the processes. It is therefore increasing efficiency. It is how the material is removed from the machine. It is also how the products can be custom designed with computer controls and the machinery performing all the work. In other words, it is a computer operated machine that performs the tasks that have been previously undertaken and completed by hand-operated or less automated equipment.
Various plastics can be used in the CNC plastic machining process. They are:
* Nylon
* PTFE (Teflon®)
* Acetal (Delrin®)
* PEEK
* UHMW/HDPE (Polyethylene)
* Polyimide (Meldin®, Vespel®)
* Phenolic
* Acrylic
While the initial cost for CNC plastic machining equipment may be high, it is cost-effective in the long-run. It reduces the actual workload as well as what has been, in the past, costly errors.
Advantages of CNC Plastic Machining
As well as reducing the workload, CNC plastic machining has been favored as a result of its perceived advantages. These include:
* Remove the need for costly plastic molds
* Is accurate time-after-time
* Results in a cost-effective means of designing part
* Increases the flexibility of addressing the need to change the design
* Very quick turn-around time is involved
* Tooling cost remains low or non-existent
* Very easy to produce such features as undercuts and threads
* Can be left unattended for hours and even days
* Reduces the risk of accidents by removing the human factor
* Closer tolerances
* Lacks such imperfections or issues as ejector marks flash or parting lines
* Lack of variations in the component or product
* Very low stress for the components
Products Typically Utilizing CNC Plastic Machining
Various products are consistently produced using CNC Plastic Machining. They include, but are not limited to:
* Blocks
* Fairleads
* Fillers
* Grommets
* Guides
* Rings
* Spacers
* Washers
The list continues to grow as technology advances, and more uses are found to ensure the integration and increased the involvement of such advanced pieces of equipment as CNC plastic machining.
CNC Plastic Machining
CNC plastic machining is an effective means of machining plastic. It is a way to reduce much of what conventional machines have performed. It allows the operators to focus on performing other tasks while the machine does what it has been designed and instructed to do. CNC plastic machining is another way the company can reduce costs while making sure the task is completed without a loss of quality.
