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The VMT blog is dedicated to sharing our hard-earned knowledge in prototype manufacturing. We hope these articles will help you optimize your product designs and gain deeper insight into the world of rapid prototyping. Enjoy the read!
Get an Instant QuoteCNC machining is ideal for high-precision, complex-shaped components with tight tolerances, while sheet metal fabrication is better suited for producing lighter, simpler, and cost-effective metal parts in larger volumes. Your project’s design, material, and function determine the best method.
Welding is a specific joining technique within the broader process of metal fabrication, which includes cutting, shaping, machining, and assembling metal parts. While welding fuses materials together, metal fabrication encompasses the entire journey from raw material to finished product, often involving metal CNC machining and other advanced techniques.
Stainless steel die casting is a manufacturing process that injects molten stainless steel into molds under high pressure. It offers high corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and strength, making it ideal for complex components in aerospace, marine, medical, and industrial applications. It supports CNC machining services for enhanced precision, making it popular in stainless steel CNC machining parts production.
The primary difference between 18/8, 304, and 316 stainless steel lies in their chemical composition and corrosion resistance. 18/8 is a general term for stainless steel containing 18% chromium and 8% nickel, commonly equivalent to 304. 316 includes added molybdenum, offering superior corrosion resistance in harsh environments. Choose based on your specific application requirements.
308 stainless steel is ideal for welding applications and offers excellent corrosion resistance in moderate environments, while 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, enhancing its strength and corrosion resistance in harsh, marine, or chemical conditions. Choose 308 for general industrial use and weldability, and 316 for superior durability in corrosive environments and CNC machining parts requiring high performance.
Ultem® (polyetherimide or PEI) is a high-performance, amber-to-transparent thermoplastic known for its excellent mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Used in aerospace, medical, and electronics industries, it is ideal for high-precision applications. Ultem offers long-term heat resistance and is commonly used in plastic CNC machining parts due to its dimensional stability and easy machinability.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a thermoplastic polymer known for its high strength-to-density ratio, chemical resistance, and versatility. Commonly used in applications ranging from piping systems to food containers, HDPE's properties make it suitable for various industries, including construction, healthcare, and consumer goods.
Sheet metal punching and stamping differ in process, tooling, and application: punching uses a press to shear holes or shapes in flat metal, while stamping shapes or forms the material using dies. Punching is ideal for simpler, high-speed jobs, while stamping is better for detailed, high-volume parts. Choose based on complexity, volume, and cost.
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