The Digital Thread

Consider materials along with manufacturing processes for medical device prototyping.

Choosing to use ABS, polycarbonate (PC), or combining them is a popular way to get strong machined, printed, or moulded parts. There are a lot of similarities, but also some significant differences that might help you find just the right one for your parts.

Choosing the best translucent material for your moulded parts isn’t always crystal clear. There are quite a few things to think about before making your final choice of materials and design.

These hard, versatile materials are perfect for use in projects that require high resistance to wear, abrasion, and chemicals.

ABS and polypropylene (PP) are strong contenders for many projects, but what are the differences?

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.

Are you a fan of organic chemistry? Without chains of carbon-based molecules life would be rough. So here at Protolabs we’re all about paying our respects to those special groups of bonded atoms called polymers.

This blog looks at common materials used in robotics and their benefits and applications.

Consider cost, part performance when choosing PEEK or PEI (Ultem) Plastics for CNC machining or injection moulding your parts.

Consider Delrin as an excellent plastic replacement for metal because of its strength, versatility.