Plastic machining, like other machining processes, works by removing material layer by layer to create the desired final shape. Here’s a breakdown of some common techniques used for plastic:

• Cutting: This seems simple, but heat is a concern. To avoid warping the plastic, careful cutting with saws is ideal for getting plastic sheets to the right size.

• Turning: Imagine a spinning pottery wheel. Plastic turning works similarly, with the plastic rotating on a lathe while a stationary tool cuts away excess material to match the design.

• Milling: Unlike turning where the plastic spins, milling keeps the plastic stationary. Here, the cutting tool rotates, removing small chips of plastic to achieve the desired shape. There are different milling techniques, and some (like down-milling) work better for plastics than others.

• Drilling: Drilling holes in plastic can be tricky. The wrong drill can overheat or damage the plastic. However, a skilled technician with the right tools can create various sized holes without harming the structure.

• Grinding: Similar to milling, grinding removes plastic chips to alter the shape. The key difference? Milling uses short, repeated cuts, while grinding continuously removes material to create a smoother surface finish.