Can You Machine Spring Steel? A Complete Guide for Engineers and Machinists
What Is Spring Steel and Why Does It Matter? “Can you machine spring steel?”That was the exact question I asked myself years ago when I got handed a drawing for a small part with ridiculous tolerances—and the word “spring steel” stamped across the title block. I’d machined a lot of tool steels before, but spring steel? That […]
Elongation in Machining: What Engineers Must Know About Material Ductility
Introduction Elongation is one of those material properties that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves—until something breaks. I’ve seen it firsthand in my work with CNC machining projects: a part passes dimensional inspection but fails under load. Why? Low elongation. That was the first time I realized how much elongation can affect the real-world performance of […]
Zinc Metal for Machining: Properties, Applications, Design Tips, and Supply Chain Insights
Introduction Zinc metal isn’t just another industrial material — it’s a workhorse that quietly powers a surprising number of industries. I’ve been working with metals for over a decade, mostly in the context of CNC machining and material sourcing. Among the metals I’ve worked with, zinc metal stands out for its balance of cost, machinability, and versatility. […]
How to Work with Chrome Metal in Machining: A Practical Guide
Chapter 1: What Is Chrome Metal? Before diving into CNC machining details, let’s clear up one thing: what exactly is chrome metal? Many people confuse chrome metal with pure chromium. Chrome metal usually refers to metal parts that have been chrome-plated rather than pure chromium itself. Chrome plating is applying a thin layer of chromium onto […]
Properties of Metals Explained: The Complete Guide for Machinists to Select and Process Materials
Chapter 1: Introduction Why I Wrote This Guide on the Properties of Metals When I first started my career in machining, I faced a steep learning curve. Understanding the properties of metals was crucial, yet surprisingly difficult. Every machinist I know has struggled at some point to match the right metal to a specific machining […]
Everything You Need to Know About PMMA Material for CNC Machining
Introduction When working in CNC machining, selecting the right material can make or break a project. One material I’ve come to appreciate over the years is PMMA material—better known as acrylic or Plexiglas®. It’s lightweight, optically clear, and incredibly versatile. For CNC work, especially when you need transparency and good aesthetics, PMMA material often becomes the […]
Thinking of Using Satin Anodized Aluminum for CNC Parts
What Exactly Is Satin Anodized Aluminum, and Why Might You Choose It? I’ve worked with aluminum in a lot of projects—some industrial, some purely cosmetic. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate just how versatile this material really is. But one finish that continues to stand out for me—both in appearance and performance—is satin anodized aluminum. So […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
How Urethane is Machined in Modern Manufacturing: Tips, Tools, and Real-World Use Cases
Introduction I’ve been fascinated by the way Urethane shapes modern manufacturing ever since I first encountered this material in a small prototyping workshop. It was early in my career, and I remember wondering if it could be machined as easily as metals or more common plastics. Back then, I was juggling multiple projects, and I […]