Blind Rivet Installation Guide: CNC Drilling, Sizing, and Fixing Tips
Introduction When I first got into mechanical design, blind rivets were just something I saw used on factory floor panels. I didn’t think much of them until a project came along that required joining thin aluminum sheets—no access from the backside, no heat allowed, and the parts had to stay flush. That’s when blind rivets went from […]
Clear Anodized Aluminum Explained: Material Benefits, Use Cases and Buying Tips
Introduction When I first came across clear anodized aluminum, I was designing a custom electronics enclosure for a client in the industrial automation field. They wanted something lightweight, durable, and clean-looking—something that could take a beating in a warehouse but still look sleek on a desk. Clear anodized aluminum checked all the boxes. Over the […]
Plastic Gears Machining Guide: From Material Selection to Precision Cutting
I. Why Machine Plastic Gears Instead of Molding? Plastic gears have become essential in a wide range of industries, from medical devices to automation systems. Traditionally, many of these gears are injection molded, which is cost-effective for high volumes. But over the years, I’ve worked with more and more clients who require small batches, one-off […]
Blow Mold Machining with CNC: Precision, Speed, and Repeatability
I. Introduction Blow molding is everywhere, even if we don’t always notice it. From plastic bottles and oil cans to shampoo containers, blow mold technology shapes the products we use daily. A blow mold is a specialized tool that shapes molten plastic into hollow objects. The quality of the mold itself determines product quality, production […]
Metal Rivets and CNC Machining: From Hole Design to Final Assembly
I. Introduction Metal rivets have been around for centuries. Even in today’s high-tech, precision-engineered world, they’re still everywhere. From aircraft skins to laptop chassis, metal rivets provide a reliable, permanent way to connect parts—especially in environments where vibration or dynamic loads are involved. I work mostly with CNC-machined parts. Over time, I’ve realized that understanding […]
How to Make High-Precision Resin Molds : A Complete Guide for Creators
I. Introduction Creating resin molds has become one of my favorite ways to turn unique ideas into physical reality. Resin molds allow creators like us to reproduce detailed items, ranging from jewelry and keychains to art objects and prototypes. Over the past few years, I’ve seen resin art explode on social media, craft fairs, and […]
Plastic Rivets Prototyping and Production machining: A Modern Solution for Complex Fasteners
Understanding Plastic Rivets: Types, Uses, and Materials Plastic rivets are versatile fasteners used to join materials in various applications. Unlike metal rivets, plastic rivets are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and non-conductive, making them ideal for industries like electronics, automotive, and consumer goods. Types of Plastic Rivets Common Materials Material Properties Applications Nylon (PA6/6) High strength, wear-resistant Automotive […]
CNC Router Bits – Selection, Use, and Buying Guide
I. Introduction to CNC Router Bits If you’ve ever worked with a CNC router, you already know the bit you choose can make or break your project. When I first got into CNC machining, I underestimated how important CNC router bits were. I thought they were all the same — until I burned a slab of oak, […]
Acetal vs Delrin for Machining: A Complete Guide for Engineers and Designers
Introduction When I first started working with plastics in CNC machining, one question kept coming up: Acetal vs Delrin – what’s the difference, and which one should I use? It sounded like a simple choice, but it wasn’t. Both materials are part of the same plastic family, yet they perform differently depending on the use case. This […]
Tensile Strength of Steel Explained for Engineers and Machinist
Introduction The tensile strength of steel is the heartbeat of engineering and machining. It’s the maximum stress a steel part can endure before snapping, and it’s a make-or-break factor for safe bridges, durable gears, or reliable chassis. I learned this lesson painfully early in my career. While designing a steel bracket for an industrial press, […]
Master STL File Creation for Machining Success
Introduction STL files are the heart of CNC machining, turning digital designs into tangible parts. An STL file, short for Stereolithography, uses a mesh of triangles to define a 3D model’s surface, guiding CNC machines to carve materials like aluminum, wood, or plastic with precision. CNC machining, or computer numerical control, relies on these files […]
Riveting Quality Starts with Precision: Why CNC Machining Matters
Introduction Riveting is one of those processes people often take for granted. I’ve seen it used in aircraft panels, metal furniture, elevator enclosures, HVAC ducting, and even on high-end kitchen cabinets. It’s reliable, fast, and usually cheap. But here’s the catch—riveting is only as good as the parts you’re joining. That’s a lesson I learned […]