News & Insights

The last step in finishing a part is to apply an appropriate finish. Finishing a machined part can be as simple as smoothing off the burrs and other sharp edges or painting and coating the material to improve aesthetics and functionality. In the initial design phase of your project, talk to your machinist about the finishing processes to get a highly precise and extremely resilient piece.   AIP has over... Read More

An Informational Brief on Polymer Machining   Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PET-P) is a general-purpose thermoplastic polymer which belongs to the polyester family. Highlights of this material include: an excellent combination of mechanical, thermal, chemical resistance and dimensional stability. Another notable characteristic of this material is that it is one of the most recycled thermoplastics.   AIP has over 37 years of experience machining complex components from thermoplastics like Polyethylene... Read More

An Informational Brief on Polymer Machining   ARDEL® Polyarylates are a family of aromatic polyesters.  It has inherent UV stability and superior retention of optical and mechanical properties.  These qualities combined make it an excellent choice for applications where weathering and wear are a concern.  To make a comparison, polyaryls have similar mechanical properties to polycarbonates.  Likewise, its impact strength can be compared to medium-impact ABS.   AIP has over... Read More

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