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Share your experiences, thoughts and seek advice in manufacturing. Create your own topics for discussion, ask questions, and participate in conversations.

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Tolerances Before or After Anodizing?
Hello, I have a question about the standard practice in the industry regarding determining tolerances for surface treatments involving anodizing. Considering that anodizing has the potential to add a few to tens of microns... read more
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18.2k
Mar 29
Maximum safe draw depth for aluminum
Hi everyone, I'm designing an automotive underbody heat shield using 0.8 mm thick aluminum alloy 5052-H32 for progressive die stamping. My main challenge is determining the optimal draw depth for complex geometries without risking... read more
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10.4k
Jan 02
Injection molding wall thicknesses – tips?
Hello,I am a mechanical engineer currently in the design phase of developing rectangular housings using PA66 GF30 material. From my previous projects, I've encountered challenges with achieving consistent dimensions, particularly with thin wall sections.... read more
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13.0k
May 15
Best process to achieve antique brass finish
Hello Community, I’m looking for a finish that closely resembles antique brass—rich, aged tones with some depth and texture, for aluminum parts for a decorative lighting fixture. I’m not sure which method (Electroplating or... read more
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7.5k
Dec 13
Recommended wall-thickness for FDM
Hello! what could be the optimal wall thickness for FDM 3d printing large-scale parts, considering material strength and without compromising structural integrity?
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11.8k
Mar 26
Food contact safe manufacturing
Hi everyone! Which is the best solution to 3D print a food contact and high temperature resistant kitchen utensil for manufacturing purpose? Which material? Which manufacturing process? What about compliance with EU regulation (https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/food-contact-materials)? read more
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9.5k
Mar 19
Need recommendations for a solid aluminum alloy
Hello, I am designing a bottle opener and want to use aluminum. I need an alloy that is strong enough. The opener will not be very thin, I am thinking of 3-4 mm at... read more
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9.1k
How to improve paint adhesion to plastic?
Hey guys! I'm having issues with paint adhering properly. I'm trying to improve the cosmetics on some moldings of a waterproof portable speaker housing molded in ABS. The paint peels off easily after drying.... read more
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9.6k
Aug 22
CNC machining or 3D printing plastic part
hello! I want to manufacture small enclosures (electrical housing) that will be used in an outdoor application and need to meet IP67 standards for water and dust resistance (electrical housing). I’m evaluating whether to... read more
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6.3k
Dec 27
FDM finish options to smoothen the surface
Hi everyone, I'm planning to 3D print a part using FDM technology, but I'm concerned about the visible layer lines that typically appear on the surface. Does anyone have experience with effective techniques to... read more
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6.8k
May 02