The tolerances that can be achieved with CNC machining plastic parts depend on the type of plastic, the CNC machining process used, and the skill of the operator. In general, CNC machining can achieve tolerances of +/- 0.002 inches (0.05 mm) or better.
Here are some of the factors that affect the tolerances that can be achieved with CNC machining plastic parts:
- The type of plastic: The ease of machining varies across different types of plastic. Hard plastics like PEEK cannot be machined to tolerances as precise as soft plastics like ABS.
- The CNC machining process: Different CNC machining techniques have varying degrees of precision. CNC wire EDM is a very accurate method that can produce parts with very small tolerances.
- The skill of the operator: The achievable tolerances can also be impacted by the operator's expertise. An experienced operator may create parts with tighter tolerances than a less experienced operator.
It's crucial to select a soft plastic, use a precise CNC machining procedure, and work with a qualified operator if you need to produce plastic parts with extremely tight tolerances. If you want more information about CNC machining plastic parts, please click here.