01
HDPE is a plastic with a good strength-to-density ratio used for various purposes. Learn how to CNC machine HDPE, how to set up your ZMorph VX and Voxelizer, and what are the most common applications.
HDPE is a plastic with a good strength-to-density ratio used for various purposes. Learn how to CNC machine HDPE, how to set up your ZMorph VX and Voxelizer, and what are the most common applications.
HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene. It is a thermoplastic with excellent moisture and chemical resistance, good impact strength, and a large strength-to-density ratio. This material is resistant to weather factors and is therefore often used for outdoor applications.
ZMorph VX also supports LDPE (low-density polyethylene).
HDPE is not that easy to machine and therefore we recommend milling in this material only for more advanced ZMorph users. Below you’ll find some useful information on CNC machining HDPE.
Because HDPE requires higher milling speeds we recommend setting Voxelizer to 7-12 mm/s. Slower speeds might clog your cutter. If you have problems with broken milling bits, check out our tips on how to avoid breaking cutters.
The safest way to mount HDPE sheets on the VX CNC worktable is to use plastic clamps added to every VX Full Set. Alternatively, the clamps can be 3D printed (the STL file should be on the SD card that came with your ZMorph VX). Remember that proper material mounting is one of the key factors for a successful project.
For milling in HDPE and similar plastics, we recommend universal single or double flute bits. End mills bundles are available in our online store.
Don’t forget to vacuum every now and then if you work on a bigger project. Bits and shavings may clog your device.
We recommend milling with closed covers - this way there is less chance of small particles escaping the enclosure of the machine. Be sure not to touch moving parts of the unit while it’s working because that may cause injuries.
[Tweet "HDPE is a thermoplastic with a great strength-to-density ratio. Learn more"]
Thanks to its features, HDPE can be used for 3D printing containers for some chemicals. It’s also widely used as a material for prototyping, tooling, fixturing, and casings.
ZMorph VX and the CNC PRO Milling Toolhead operate on high speed therefore you should never touch the moving parts of the machine while it’s working. You may seriously injure yourself. Additionally, watch out for loose clothing and long hair as they might get tangled in the machine.
While CNC milling in HDPE be sure that the room is ventilated properly and don’t forget to take care of your hearing as the CNC operations tend to get quite noisy. Headphones are recommended.
ZMorph VX All-In-One 3D Printer works with almost 50 engineering materials for subtractive and additive manufacturing. To learn about their most important features, popular applications, and check the technical data, download the ZMorph Materials Library or read it online for free. Don’t forget to check the ZMorph Blog regularly for more articles of this kind.
Write a Comment
Your email address will not be published.