Polymer machining

Polymers are most often processed by moulding; however, machining is often used for various reasons such as :

• drilling for subsequent assembly by bolting or riveting ;

• routing of molded parts ;

• small series production ;

• extremely precise dimensions;

• cutting preforms for thermoforming.

To achieve this, machining techniques must be adapted to the specific behavior of the polymer.

It should be noted in advance that the practical data listed in this article emanate from technical documents published by specialized companies, and that contradictory indications have sometimes appeared. It is therefore advisable to use the values proposed as a basis for carrying out some preliminary tests, so as to confirm or readjust them to the intended application.

For the machining of a given material, it is advisable to consult both the paragraph corresponding to the machining technique planned (turning, drilling, etc.) and that corresponding to the nature of the material.