Although the machining technology allows a relatively free design, there are also some restrictions to be observed here.
Basically, the surfaces achieved during machining are worse than with injection molding or compression molding technology. Roughness values from Rz 10 to 6.3 are possible. Particularly high-quality surfaces (less than Rz 6.3) are only possible through complex mechanical, partly manual processes (grinding, polishing, lapping etc.) to achieve, which significantly increase processing costs.
Machined plastic components must always be made from appropriately sized semi-finished pieces. There is a risk that the machining process may cause material stresses. In the worst case, the component will become extremely distorted. Even after weeks, strong dimensional changes in size and shape can occur, especially under the influence of temperature. Such stress-related changes can be reduced to a minimum through a complex machining process with idle times and/or thermal intermediate treatment.
Taking into account all aspects of component design is difficult and time-consuming and should therefore only be carried out by designers who are experienced with plastics. POLYTRON will help you with the plastic-compatible design of your components - just contact us!