Materials & Finishes

Topic
Replies
Views
Activity
Choosing PA12 vs PA12-CF for an SLS-printed automotive cam cover prototype
hey, I’m working on a three-piece cam/valve cover for a small automotive engine project, mainly a functional prototype that will see real under-hood temperatures, oil mist, and vibration, but not long-term production use. The... read more
h
0
6
Jan 21
Surface Finish
I am looking to have some Aluminium samples made............without adding extra post process operations what is the best surface finish possible (um) ?
a
0
7
Jan 20
Choosing the right tool steel grade for a high-volume stamping die
hi, I’m designing a cold-formed stamping die for thin stainless-steel sheets (gauge ~1.5 mm) used in an enclosure that will see around 500 k cycles. Given that abrasion resistance and dimensional stability over long... read more
J
D
1
166
Dec 17
Blasting and anodizing order on aluminum parts
Hello! need help - am working on a set of 6061-T6 aluminum control knobs for a small instrument panel, and the surface finish is important since they’ll be handled frequently and remain visible. The... read more
J
C
1
198
Dec 09
Gasket material for short-term hydrotest on carbon steel piping
Looking for advice on selecting a gasket material for temporary spool joints during a hydrotest on carbon steel piping in a refinery. The test medium will be demineralized water (low conductivity, no additives), and... read more
C
N
1
204
Dec 08
Acrylic or pc for outdoor enclosures
hi! For transparent cover for an outdoor sensor needs to stay clear, handle some impacts, and resist sunlight - would you go with acrylic or polycarbonate? Acrylic has better UV and scratch resistance, but... read more
L
D
3
730
Nov 26
Best flexible 3D printing material for vibration-damping motor mounts
Hi Everyone! We’re designing a vibration-damping mounting bracket (approx. 150×80×40 mm) for a small electric motor housing, and we’re considering 3D printing it in a flexible material. Given the operating environment includes oil exposure,... read more
l
D
A
2
372
Nov 27
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
T
F
D
2
1.5k
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
G
j
R
2
1.6k
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
E
B
M
2
1.4k
Jul 04