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Plastic Machining vs. 3D Printing: Which One is Right for You?

Plastic Machining vs. 3D Printing: Which One is Right for You?

The world of plastic manufacturing has experienced significant advancements in recent years. Among these developments are plastic machining and 3D printing, two popular methods for creating plastic components. Both offer unique advantages, but which one is the right choice for your project? We will explore these techniques and help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

CNC Turning

Plastic Machining Services

Plastic machining is a subtractive manufacturing process. Offering unparalleled precision, making it a prime choice for projects demanding precision and engineering-grade materials.

At IPFL, our CNC technology comes in a variety of capabilities:

CNC Milling: IPFL’s high speed rotary cutters operates on 3 and 5 axes, offering advanced precision for micro-machining (down to 0.1 mm diameter). Provides unbeaten surface finish supported by ancillary processes such as polishing, engraving, painting, and U.V. printing.

CNC Routing: IPFL manages a large capacity of CNC routers that can manufacture at high volumes for large format industrial machining. Producing consistently accurate parts, CNC routing is available to any design supplied in a STEP or CAD file.

CNC Turning: IPFL’s latest lathe technology can produce high quality internal and external profiles with exquisite curved, canonical, or straight dimensions. This technique is performed to tight tolerances and can be polished to leave the smoothest and most consistent of surfaces.

Diamond Machining: The superior alternative to flame and buff polishing. IPFL utilises a broad diamond tool set within its range of high-quality milling machines and lathes. It can create polished holes, chamfers, rebates, and pockets with unprecedented results.

Across the scope of plastic machining capabilities, a wide range of materials can be applied to suit almost any application. These polymers include acrylic, nylon, and acetal, as well as polycarbonate.

lens Turning

Benefits of Plastic Machining

Some of the main advantages of plastic machining include:

  • Material versatility: Plastic machining can handle a wide range of plastics, including engineering-grade materials that may not be suitable for 3D printing.
  • High precision and accuracy: CNC machines can achieve tight tolerances, producing parts with superior dimensional stability and surface finish.
  • Scalability: Plastic machining is suitable for both low and high-volume production, making it a flexible option for various project requirements.

 

3D Printing Services

Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing is a process that involves building objects layer-by-layer from a digital model. A variety of materials can be used for 3D printing, allowing for complex geometries and intricate designs with relative ease.

IPFL operates various additive manufacturing services that cater to large and small volume productions:

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM): IPFL applies thermoplastic extrusion technology with a variety of material such as elastics, carbon fiber, and chemical resistant materials. FDM parts remain strong and dimensionally stable.

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF): Powder-based material is fused together to batch produce printed parts with consistent surface finishes and retained mechanical properties. Ideal for prototyping, end-use, and low-volume production.

SLA: IPFL is equipped with the latest Statasys Neo450s to create high resolution parts in record time. Product development is made quicker, as is prototyping, rapid tooling, and master patterns.

Polyjet: IPFL manufactures highly accurate, high-resolution components that display a smooth surface at just 16μm thick for each print layer. Jetted photopolymer resin is quickly cured into solid, smooth surfaces. Its multi material capability allows for components with varying areas of stiffness, flexibility, and transparency.

Micro 3D Printing: IPFL is at the forefront of micro additive manufacturing. Utilising the latest machine from BMF, IPFL can produce microscopic components far smaller than alternative 3D printing processes.

HP MJF 3d printing part

Benefits of 3D Printing

Some of the key benefits of 3D printing include:

  • Design freedom: 3D printing allows for complex structures which would be difficult or impossible to create using traditional manufacturing methods.
  • Low volume production: It is ideal for producing prototypes or small batches, as it doesn’t require expensive tooling or molds.
  • Reduced waste: Since material is only added where needed, 3D printing helps reduce material waste.

Determining the most appropriate manufacturing method

The choice between plastic machining and 3D printing ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you require a complex design, rapid prototyping, or small batch production, 3D printing may be the more suitable option. However, if your project demands high precision or the use of engineering-grade materials, plastic machining could be the better choice.

Both methods have their own set of advantages and limitations. It is essential to carefully evaluate your project requirements before making a decision. Consulting with our experienced professionals at IPFL can help you determine the most appropriate manufacturing method for your unique needs, ensuring success of your project.

Find all of these services with dedicated support on the IPFL website.

 

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