Materials & Finishes
Topic
Replies
Views
Activity
Adjustable brackets for 30 mm tubing – MJF PA12 vs CNC POM for strength and stability?
I’m developing a set of adjustable brackets to secure 30 mm diameter aluminum tubing in a display frame. Each bracket will have a split collar design with an M6 through-bolt for clamping and needs... read more
0
156
Sep 19
Polyjet for clear wearable casings
Has anyone here used Polyjet for transparent consumer electronics casings? I’m designing a small wearable device that needs a clear front cover to show internal LEDs and sensors. I know polyjet can do translucent... read more
4
201
Sep 22
Reliable nylon for 3D-printed living hinges?
Hi, I’m designing snap-fit battery enclosures for a wearable device with living hinges that need to survive ~200 cycles without cracking. My unfilled nylon prints sometimes crack at the hinge line even after annealing.... read more
4
269
Sep 17
Choosing material for high-temp, high-pressure reheater tubes
Hi everyone! I’m working on reheater tubes for an ultra-supercritical boiler operating around 700 °C and 28 MPa. I’m evaluating Inconel 617, 740H, Alloy 263, and Super 304H for their high-temp creep strength, oxidation resistance, and... read more
4
592
Sep 03
Best 3D printing material for child-safe educational toy prototype
Hello! I need advice on a small prototype for an educational toy aimed at children aged 3–6. It consists of interlocking geometric shapes (around 8–10 parts per set), with no mechanical function. I’m planning... read more
2
834
Jul 16
Alodine coating enough for avionics enclosures?
Hi there, my project is a CNC machined enclosure in 6061-T6 aluminum for an avionics module that’ll be mounted in a wing compartment exposed to temperature swings, some humidity, but not direct salt spray.... read more
2
835
Jul 15
Resistant material for small gear system
Looking for the best material for a locking mechanism for an electric vehicle charging connector. Essentially a small gear system that engages to prevent unplugging during charging. The gear teeth are low-load but need... read more
2
831
Jul 04
Effect of zinc flake coating thickness on bolt performance
In an automotive subframe project using M12 class 10.9 bolts, exposed to salt spray and vibration, I’m looking into zinc flake coatings for corrosion protection. Curious if doubling the coating thickness—from 8 µm to... read more
2
928
Jun 26
direct metal laser sintering
I need to obtain hole/channel sizes of 0.65 mm. will this be obtainable with a 40-60 layer thickness in tool steel?
1
693
Jun 13
SLA material for outdoor indicator lenses
hi, I'm recreating two small indicator lenses for a 1980s motorcycle restoration. These need to be clear, UV-stable, and able to handle exposure to sun and rain long-term. I’m planning to go with SLA... read more
2
871
Jun 24