News & Insights

What is Thermal Expansion (and Contraction)?   Thermal expansion or contraction occurs when a material is exposed to temperature change and thus leads to change in all dimensions, as well as other physical properties.  While this effect is most noticeable in gasses and liquids, it is also notable in solids.  Softer materials such as unreinforced polymers experience greater levels of dimensional change per each degree change in temperature.   When... Read More

3 Tips from the Plastics Machining Pros on choosing the most suitable material for your machined polymer components   CNC machining produces high-end, mission critical products for many markets and industries. It allows for tight tolerances on part dimensions and complex designs. However, before the machining can happen, the design must be completely planned out with your manufacturer. In order to get the best outcome for the design, you must... Read More

An Informational Brief on Polymer Machining   One of the high-performance polymers we precision machine is ECTFE (Ethylene Chlorotrifluoroethylene).  It is marketed under the branded name of Halar® ECTFE by Solvay Specialty Polymers.  This material was developed to provide chemical resistance in heavy duty corrosion applications, such as acid handling, mining applications and class 8 hazardous goods transportation.   AIP has over 37 years of experience machining complex components from... Read More

An Informational Brief on Polymer Machining   Polybutylene Terephthalate, also known as PBT, is a crystalline polyester thermoplastic that is a household name in everyday applications. You can find it under the hood in automotive applications, such as brake cable liners or sockets due to its ability to endure harsh environments and resist chemicals. In food processing and electrical applications, it is chosen for its resistance to staining and low... Read More

A discussion on the importance of ITAR registration   Whether it is distributing M16 rifles for military operatives or manufacturing landing gear components for AC-130J gunships, facilities that deal with USML Defense Articles in the United States must be compliant with and registered under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).    ITAR regulates the production, sale and transport of munitions categorized under the United States Munitions List (USML).  There... Read More