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Past 'materials' posts

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Metals
materials
13/01/2026

Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metals: A Guide for Engineers

Compare ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Learn how iron content affects strength, weight, corrosion resistance, and material selection for real-world applications.
By Protolabs
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A pile of white Nylon Resin pellets
Materials Science
25/11/2025

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Glass-Filled Nylon

Making nylon parts stronger isn’t difficult. All it takes is the addition of glass to your base material. Explore the pros and cons of glass-filled nylon.
By Protolabs
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Aluminum Bead Blasted
Materials
24/11/2025

Materials for Heat Sinks

Learn how heat sinks work for thermal management, and how to choose between aluminium, copper, graphite, and composites. Includes manufacturing tips and design guidance.
By Protolabs
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PL CNC Machining Mild Steel
Materials
10/10/2025

Steel Composition Explained: Properties, Grades & Applications

Learn what steel is made of, how carbon affects properties, and which grades suit your needs. Compare steel types, heat treatments, and finishes.
By Protolabs
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Steel Rods
Materials
07/10/2025

Properties of Mild Steel

Discover mild steel properties, applications, and manufacturing benefits. Learn when to choose mild steel for your CNC machining projects with expert insights from Protolabs.
By Protolabs
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Materials
Materials
30/09/2025

What Is Ductility? Material Selection for Engineers

Ductility is the ability for a material to deform without breaking. Learn why it matters in manufacturing, how it's tested, and where it's applied.
By Protolabs
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Injection Moulding Resin
Materials
30/09/2025

What is Epoxy?

Discover what epoxy is, its key properties, manufacturing applications, and how Protolabs uses epoxy-based materials in 3D printing, CNC machining, and injection moulding.
By Protolabs
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Protolabs Robotic Materials Blog
Robotics
24/09/2025

Materials That Command the Robotics Industry

Discover the essential materials for robotics engineering. From lightweight aluminium to advanced polymers, learn how material choice drives robot performance and innovation.
By Protolabs
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CNC Stainless Steel
Materials
11/09/2025

Tool Steel in Manufacturing

Discover tool steel types, properties, and applications in manufacturing. Learn how to choose the right grade for durability, wear resistance, and precision.
By Protolabs
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Flame-Retardant Thermoplastics and UL Classifications
Materials
25/08/2025

UL 94 Classification and Flame-Retardant Materials

An overview of materials with flame-retardant characteristics and the UL 94 classification.
By Protolabs
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3D-printed Aluminium
Materials Science
26/06/2025

Comparing Aluminium Alloys: Find the Right Material for Your Part

Compare aluminium alloys to find the material that best fits your project needs.
By Protolabs
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medical device prototyping
Materials Matchup
24/10/2024

PEEK, PEI, LSR, and Other Material Options for Medical Prototyping

Consider materials along with manufacturing processes for medical device prototyping.
By Protolabs
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