CNC machining is excellent for prototyping plastic parts because its fast, cost-effective, and accurate. If you’re in the initial stages of product development, consider plastic CNC precision machining.

Learn what makes this technique a great option.

Fast & Economical

CNC machining is often a good solution for a manufacturer who wants to produce in bulk. Since this technique doesn’t require a mold, it ensures a faster turnaround time compared to other processes like injection molding. The machines can run around-the-clock and can cut multiple parts at one time, which contributes to the speed and efficiency.

CNC machining is also affordable for small numbers of parts. Whether you need one or several pieces, your CAD data can easily translate to the machining process. The simpler the design is, the faster you will see the product. But even complex designs can be machined quickly, if the operator uses best practices for programming the cutting paths.

Accurate and Attractive

Many prototype machining services also allow you to manufacture parts that have complex geometries. The machining process is ideal for high-precision industries because parts can be made within tight design tolerances.

When appearance is an important feature of your prototype, CNC machining can often produce the best surface finish at a reasonable cost compared to other prototyping services. The quality of the results depends on the knowledge of the machine operator. If they understand your appearance needs, they can plan the cutting to use the smallest cutters on the final paths to reduce or even eliminate the need for finishing the part after it comes off of the machine.

Great for Testing

A plastic prototype made through CNC machining allows you to test and evaluate a product’s performance with ease. This means you can check the form, fit, and functionality without the need for additional tooling. For prototyping plastic parts, it’s a versatile technique for a range of industries. For instance, plastic prototypes made through rapid CNC machining are commonly used in the aerospace industry.

Here are some other common applications.

Medicine

Thermoplastics, which are easily machined, are ideal for testing and making new equipment in the medical industry. They feature distinct properties that can meet sterilization and safety requirements. Additionally, plastic materials offer durability in extreme conditions. Medical equipment made from CNC machined plastic include probes, sterilization trays, surgical equipment, and more.

Automotive

Since CNC machining delivers high-precision parts with reduced cycle times, it’s excellent for automotive manufacturing. With this technique, you can produce prototype parts for everything ranging from A/C vents, dials, switches, and gauges to lighting components, interior parts, and even engine parts for fit and appearance evaluations.

Other Industries

CNC precision machining has many applications in the defense and military industries, where accuracy is highly important. This machining process can also create precision parts for communication devices and other electronics. CNC machining helps you prototype parts for light switches, insulation systems, mobile phones, and more.

Find Expert Prototype Machining Services

At Global Technology Ventures, we offer excellent precision manufacturing solutions, regardless of your industry and scope of work. If you need help with your prototyping project, we can help you determine a suitable prototyping method. We work with highly-trained engineers to create high-quality prototypes using state-of-the-art technology. From rapid CNC machining to 3D printing, we provide a one-stop shop.