Hey there! As a supplier of Plastic CNC Machining, I've been in the game for quite a while, and I know how important post - processing steps are for plastic CNC machined parts. In this blog, I'm gonna walk you through the essential post - processing steps that we usually take to make sure our plastic parts are top - notch.
1. Deburring
First off, deburring is a must - do step. When we machine plastic parts using CNC, there are often burrs left on the edges. These burrs can be sharp and rough, which not only affect the aesthetics of the parts but also pose safety risks. We use different methods to remove these burrs.
One common method is manual deburring. We use tools like files, sandpaper, and knives to carefully remove the burrs by hand. It's a time - consuming process, but it allows us to have precise control, especially for parts with complex shapes. For larger batches, we might also use automated deburring machines. These machines can quickly and efficiently remove burrs from multiple parts at once. You can check out our OEM Machining Service where we pay great attention to every detail, including deburring.
2. Polishing
After deburring, polishing comes next. Polishing can enhance the surface finish of the plastic parts, making them smoother and more visually appealing. There are different levels of polishing, depending on the requirements of the parts.
For a basic polish, we can use abrasive pads or sandpapers with different grits. We start with a coarse grit to remove any remaining rough spots and then gradually move to finer grits to achieve a smoother finish. For a high - gloss finish, we might use polishing compounds and buffing wheels. This gives the plastic parts a shiny and professional look, which is great for parts that are visible in the final product. Our Precision CNC Turning Parts often go through a meticulous polishing process to meet the high - end quality standards.
3. Cleaning
Cleaning is a crucial step that is sometimes overlooked. During the machining and post - processing steps, there can be dirt, oil, and other contaminants on the surface of the plastic parts. These contaminants can affect the performance and appearance of the parts.
We use a variety of cleaning methods. For light cleaning, we can use isopropyl alcohol and a lint - free cloth to wipe the parts. This can remove most of the surface dirt and fingerprints. For more thorough cleaning, we might use ultrasonic cleaners. These cleaners use high - frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution, which can effectively remove dirt and debris from the parts' surfaces, even from hard - to - reach areas.
4. Heat Treatment
In some cases, heat treatment can be beneficial for plastic CNC machined parts. Heat treatment can relieve internal stresses that are generated during the machining process. These internal stresses can cause the parts to warp or crack over time.
We usually heat the parts to a specific temperature and then cool them down slowly. This process helps to relax the molecular structure of the plastic and reduce the internal stresses. However, it's important to note that different types of plastics have different heat treatment requirements. We need to carefully control the temperature and time to avoid damaging the parts. As a Cnc Turned Parts Manufacturer, we have the expertise to handle heat treatment for various plastic materials.
5. Coating
Coating is another post - processing step that can add value to the plastic parts. There are different types of coatings that we can apply, depending on the specific needs of the parts.
For example, a protective coating can be applied to increase the wear resistance and chemical resistance of the parts. This is especially useful for parts that will be exposed to harsh environments. A decorative coating can also be used to change the color or appearance of the parts. We can use techniques like spray coating or dip coating to apply the coatings evenly on the parts' surfaces.
6. Quality Inspection
Last but not least, quality inspection is an integral part of the post - processing. We need to make sure that the plastic parts meet the required specifications.
We use a variety of inspection tools, such as calipers, micrometers, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM). These tools allow us to measure the dimensions of the parts accurately and check if they are within the tolerance range. We also visually inspect the parts for any surface defects, such as scratches, cracks, or uneven finishes. Only after passing the quality inspection can the parts be considered ready for delivery.
In conclusion, the post - processing steps for plastic CNC machined parts are essential to ensure the quality, performance, and appearance of the parts. From deburring to quality inspection, each step plays a crucial role in delivering high - quality products to our customers.
If you're in the market for plastic CNC machined parts, or if you have any questions about our post - processing steps, feel free to reach out and start a conversation with us. We're always happy to discuss your specific requirements and see how we can help you with your projects.
References
- "Plastic Machining Handbook"
- Industry standards and best practices for plastic CNC machining and post - processing