blog header

The Digital Thread

Your blog feed for manufacturing resources, in-depth features, and industry news.

Latest Posts

CNC Machining
manufacturing
12/09/2025

Understanding Yield Strength

Discover what yield strength is, why it matters for engineers, and how it’s measured. Compare materials and see how yield strength impacts real-world design.
By Protolabs
Read More
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
Read More
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Stereolithography
3D Printing
05/09/2025

Advantages and Disadvantages of Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing

Discover the key advantages and disadvantages of stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing, including accuracy, materials, costs, and design considerations.
By Anastasios Pantelis
Read More
Robotic arm block prep machine
MFG 360
05/09/2025

How a Digital Approach to CNC Machining Enables Speed

Speed to market is key in product design. Here we break down how digital manufacturing achieves this with tips on sourcing the right digital supplier.
By Protolabs
Read More
Variety of CNC Coating Options
finishing options
29/08/2025

Finishes and Coatings for Aerospace Components

Explore the variety of options available to improve performance of aerospace components
By Protolabs
Read More
3Dp SLA Process
3D Printing
29/08/2025

Strongest 3D Printing Filaments

Discover the strongest 3D printing filaments, from carbon fibre nylon to high-temp ULTEM, and how to choose the right material.
By Protolabs
Read More
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
Read More
CNC Knurling
finishing options
19/08/2025

What Is Knurling?

A quick guide to what knurling is, how it works, and where it's used—plus patterns, benefits, and design tips for engineers.
By Protolabs
Read More
Inspecting a part
Quality
01/08/2025

Using First Article Inspection (FAI) for Part Quality, Consistency at Speed

Use digital manufacturing which can include scientific molding processes, combined with specific quality assurance and control methods, to produce parts rapidly and consistently.
By Perry Haislet, Jimmy Spaight
Read More
Anodized parts
Blog
14/07/2025

Benefits of Aluminium Anodising for Metal Parts

Discover how anodising enhances aluminium parts, offering durability, corrosion resistance, and vibrant finishes.
By Protolabs
Read More
Black ABS Plastic Milled Part
3D Printing
30/06/2025

ABS vs. PLA

A side-by-side guide to two of the most popular 3D printing materials, what they do best, and how to choose between them
By Protolabs
Read More
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
Read More