News & Insights

Keeping it clean with precision polypropylene medical devices   Polypropylene (PP) is a versatile, low-cost thermoplastic often used for medical devices where sustainability and multiple steam-sterilizations are necessary. Along with its resistance to moisture and steam, polypropylene offers durability and strength, even after several uses. These qualities are what make it an excellent lifesaving material in medical settings.   For the last 38 years, AIP has been machining precision plastics... Read More

Keeping aircraft in “PEEK” condition for flight   High-temperature lightweight materials are critical to aircraft applications. Aircraft engines can reach temperatures up to 3812 Fahrenheit (2100 Celsius); vehicles at higher altitudes undergo extreme temperature changes compared to ground operations. Aircraft components and equipment must be able to withstand these temperatures in addition to high pressure, vibrations, impact, and corrosion to maintain reliable, safe operation. Among the advanced materials on the... Read More

An Informational Brief on Polymer Machining   Most people recognize Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) under the household name “acrylic.” This performance polymer is best known as a shatter-proof alternative to glass. Where transparency, UV stability, colorability and surface hardness are concerned, PMMA is a safe, cost-efficient option. It has good scratch resistance compared to other transparent polymers like Polycarbonate and can be coated with special abrasion and chemically resistant coatings to... Read More

An Informational Brief on Polymer Machining   Known for its ease of machining, coloring and adaptability to additives, ABS is a versatile performance thermoplastic.  While it may be used in household toys, it is also used for mission critical applications like electrical insulators and automotive interior and exterior parts.   AIP has over 37 years of experience machining complex components from thermoplastics like Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).  In this insightful... Read More

What is HDT?   The Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT), or Heat Distortion Temperature, is a measure of a polymer’s resistance to alteration under a given load at an elevated temperature.  It is also known as the 'deflection temperature under load' (DTUL) or 'heat deflection temperature under load (HDTUL)'.  Basically, it tests the stiffness of a material as the temperature increases.   It is the temperature at which a polymer test... Read More