Transparent covers and visual models
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
AIHFABS MATERIAL GUIDE
CNC Acrylic & Engineering Plastics
Compare plastic stock for transparent covers, low-friction components and lightweight fixtures.
Machining polymer stock is useful when the intended material, a clean interface or a specific surface condition drives the design. Acrylic and engineering plastics serve different purposes. Choose the exact grade around transparency, wear, temperature, chemical exposure and dimensional stability.
START WITH THE APPLICATION
Where this material family fits
Use the application to shortlist a grade, then confirm the exact requirements against the part design and operating conditions.
Bushings, guides and low-friction components
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
Insulating parts and lightweight fixtures
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
DESIGN & MANUFACTURING
What to review before selecting a grade
- Separate cosmetic transparency from mechanical requirements. Review the exact grade for contact, load and chemical exposure.
- Plan for thin walls, clamping and thermal expansion when specifying fits. Avoid transferring metal tolerances to plastics without review.
- Identify polished surfaces, sharp-edge requirements and tapped holes. Evaluate a sample where repeated assembly or appearance is critical.
COMPARE THE AVAILABLE GRADES
Explore individual materials
CNC
Clear Acrylic (PMMA)
Optical-clarity covers, light pipes, display windows, and signage letters. Flame-polished or machined edges on request. Distinct from SLA clear resin.
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CNC
Colored / Frosted Acrylic
Brand-color logos, light-box faces, and privacy panels. Same routing workflow as clear acrylic with color-matched stock.
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CNC
POM (Delrin / Acetal)
Low-friction gears, bushings, and precision plastic CNC parts that need dimensional stability without metal.
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CNC
Polycarbonate (PC)
Guards, covers, and machine windows that need toughness beyond acrylic. Can be left clear or tinted.
View material details →MATERIAL QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Can acrylic replace an engineering plastic?
Only after reviewing the actual function. Transparency, impact behavior, wear and temperature requirements may favor different materials.
Why do plastic parts need a separate tolerance review?
Material response, geometry, heat and workholding affect stability. Define functional datums and inspection conditions rather than tightening every dimension.
Can machined acrylic have clear surfaces?
Surface clarity depends on the machining and finishing route. Mark the viewing faces and describe the optical or cosmetic requirement for quotation.
FROM THE AIHFABS BLOG
Recommended reading for material selection
Sla Design Guide For Printable Parts And Reliable Assembly
Design SLA parts for printing and assembly. Review walls, small features, tolerances, supports, hollow parts, and CAD files before requesting a quote.
Read article →SLA vs Other Manufacturing Processes: How to Choose
Compare SLA with DLP, LCD, FDM, SLS, MJF, SLM, and CNC machining. Shortlist processes by material, geometry, finish, cost, and your part's intended use.
Read article →How to Choose a 3D Printing Process for Cosmetic Prototype Parts
Learn how to choose the right 3D printing process for cosmetic prototype parts. Compare SLA, DLP, FDM, SLS, and MJF for surface quality, detail, fit, and finishing.
Read article →Compare other material families
Choose a material around your part
Upload CAD for a quote, or share the complete requirements for a material and manufacturing review.
