As a company that has become one of the leading specialists in CNC machining in Kansas City, LeVic Plastics knows just how vital the CNC process is to our business. No matter if our CNC projects focus heavily on milling, turning, or drilling, we strive to make the highest quality parts for our valued customers using the most consistent CNC machining methods available.
One way to ensure you get the best results when using CNC machining is by making sure you choose the right type of plastic. Whether your parts are being manufactured using CNC machining or another method like custom plastic injection molding in Kansas City, it is critical that you use the plastic that best suits your project.
Plastics may seem the same to the average person, but a CNC operator knows that there are distinct differences that set each plastic apart from others. In this article, we will discuss six of the most popular plastics used for CNC machining in Missouri. This will help you make an informed decision on which type of plastic is best for your needs.
Acrylic
Also known as Plexiglass or Lucite, Acrylic is a type of plastic widely known for being strong and very scratch resistant. However, if acrylic is exposed to significant impact, it can shatter or crack, so there are some CNC projects that it is not best suited for.
HPDE
Short for high-density polyethylene, HPDE is an ideal use for various parts and products. Some of the most popular uses of HPDE include electrical insulation, chemical resistance, and slippery surfaces. Although it isn’t the most robust plastic, it has proven to be effective as a protective layer of plastic for many things.
Delrin
If a CNC machining job requires a plastic with lots of friction and stiffness, Delrin is a great option. However, one downfall of Delrin is that it does not allow sticky adhesives like glue to be applied easily.
Nylon
Nylon is widely known in the CNC community as being very strong and durable, so it can be used for a wide variety of projects. If it has one downfall, nylon can expand if it is exposed to moisture since it is an absorbable material. Make sure you think about if the items in your project will be exposed to water before you choose nylon for CNC machining in Kansas City.
ABS
If your project requires pre-molding and purpose prototyping, ABS may be the best plastic for you. Unfortunately, ABS is one of the most expensive plastics for CNC machining in Missouri, so, if you are on a budget, make sure this is an option you can afford.
Polycarbonate
If durability is the number one quality you are looking for in a plastic, polycarbonate is an excellent choice. It is a very stiff plastic and highly resistant to impact. Even though it keeps its shape quite well after impact, it is more prone to scratches than most other materials. Polycarbonate is a common choice for large orders, and limited production runs in Kansas City.
For your next project involving CNC machining in Kansas City, be sure to contact our team at LeVic Plastics. But if CNC machining is not what’s best for you, we offer other manufacturing methods like custom plastic Injection molds in Kansas City. You can request a free quote by going here, or you can give us a call today at (800) 231-1232.
