Successful product case study: measuring stand with deep bores and oxygen-free bonding
The Challenge: Why This Measuring Cylinder Is So Complex
Since it is a true measuring tool, not only must its functionality be spot-on, but so must its readability and appearance. In practice, this means that every machining operation, every fit, and every assembly step must be perfect, because even a small deviation can directly affect measurement accuracy and reliability.
What made this PMMA measuring burette so challenging was the combination of multiple critical requirements in a single elongated product:
- Long protrusion length: Vibrations during rotation of the product had to be completely eliminated.
- Deep and precise bores: Extremely high requirements for straightness, dimensional accuracy, and repeatability.
- A valve connection that must be completely leak-proof even under pressure. This is essential for reliable operation and safe use, since the burettes are used with lye solutions up to 30% concentration.
- Engraving in combination with precision bores: the scale must correspond exactly to the actual volume.
- Visually visible component: sleek appearance, perfect readability, and sufficient contrast in the inner bore.
A product where precision is key
This measuring cylinder requires an exceptionally high level of precision and reliability. To ensure the required performance in terms of capacity, accuracy, and liquid-tightness, extensive quality verifications were conducted in the past. It is precisely these high quality standards that make the product a fine example of technical complexity and craftsmanship in plastics processing
That is why it was important to have a partner who understood the big picture and possessed the necessary expertise. While many companies viewed this as a risk, we at BKB Precision saw it as a challenge we were eager to take on.
Our approach at BKB: first, we listen and collaborate; then, we produce
At BKB Precision, we don’t start these kinds of complex projects right at the machine; we start them around the table. During a kick-off meeting with our technology team and the customer, we went through the product step by step. We actively contributed ideas and provided advice on manufacturability, reliability, and the critical points within the process. By identifying risks early on, we were able to focus our efforts on achieving a stable and reproducible solution.
We then assembled the right internal team to manage this project from start to finish. A production engineer and a sales engineer served as the link between the client’s requirements and implementation, supported by an experienced machinist for precision machining and a craft specialist with expertise in complex bonding. Thanks to this mix of disciplines, we knew exactly where the pitfalls lay and, most importantly, how to avoid them.
With all that knowledge and experience at the table, we then translated the process into control and certainty. A clear workflow emerged, with well-defined process steps and corresponding work instructions. This minimized surprises and kept the focus on a single goal from the start: a measuring stand that is not only technically sound but can also be produced reliably and consistently.
The Final Result
The result is a measuring burette that meets Pentair Haffmans’ high quality standards in all crucial aspects. Thanks to a well-thought-out engineering approach, optimal manufacturability, and rigorous quality assurance, we have created a product with consistent measurement accuracy, excellent fluid tightness, and reliable performance under pressure. The burette also meets high aesthetic expectations, featuring a high-quality finish and optimal readability.
This project underscores the importance of collaboration, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement. The combination of Pentair Haffmans’ high-quality standards and BKB Precision’s technical expertise has led to a robust and reproducible production process, resulting in a product of which both parties can be proud.
What does the customer think?
“This measuring bench requires a high degree of precision and reliability. BKB Precision has demonstrated that it not only possesses the technical knowledge and experience, but also the right mindset to work together to find the best solution. The end result is perfectly in line with the quality standard we aim to offer our customers.”
Craftsmanship, Preparation, and Results
Complex products require more than just a good machine: they require the right people, the right preparation, and a rock-solid process. At BKB Precision, we’re passionate about products that go that extra mile.
Where others give up, we persevere with knowledge, control, and craftsmanship. Because when technical complexity and high-quality standards come together, that’s when we’re at our best. Would you like to discuss a complex product or a challenging design? Feel free to contact one of our specialists with no obligation.
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BKB Precision Group as a partner in complex flywheel technology for the defense sector
The role of flywheel technology in high-end energy storage
For high-end applications in energy storage, Quinteq develops flywheel-based systems that combine performance and safety. A flywheel is a kinetic battery that uses a spinning rotor to store and deliver energy, ideal for applications that require instantaneous power delivery, from milliseconds to several minutes. The flywheel can reduce peak power demands by up to 80%.
Precision plays a key role in these systems: small deviations can have a major impact on performance and reliability. In this context, precision and reliability are inextricably linked to the success of the overall solution.
A technical challenge with no standard solution
This application has strict requirements in terms of dimensions, reproducibility, and mechanical stability. It involves a component where deviations directly affect the performance of the entire system.
It is precisely this combination of complexity and precision that fits seamlessly with the expertise of BKB Precision Group. Curious about what we can do for you within the defense industry?
From specification to realization
Within this project, BKB Precision Group played a key role in translating complex requirements into a reproducible and reliable product. The collaboration with Quinteq was characterized by short lines of communication and technical coordination. With the successful first deliveries, an important milestone has been reached.
Quinteq agrees: “BKB Precision Group understands the complexity of our systems and supplies components with the precision and reliability that are crucial for our critical applications. The collaboration is running smoothly and strengthens confidence in every phase of the project.”
The power of effective collaboration
The collaboration with Quinteq underscores the role of BKB Precision Group as a partner in complex, high-end projects for customers in the defense industry. Both parties look back on the first phase with confidence and see it as a solid foundation for further collaboration in future developments. Curious to learn why BKB Precision Group is the ideal partner for high-quality plastic solutions in the defense industry?
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Plastic Instead of Metal: When Is It the Best Choice?
Plastic versus Metal: The Key Differences
When developing an engineering component, metal is often the first material that comes to mind. However, plastic proves to be an excellent alternative in many applications. The choice depends on factors such as weight, load-bearing capacity, chemical resistance, temperature, and cost.
The question, therefore, is not so much which material is better, but which material best meets the functional requirements of the application.
| Property | Plastic | Metaal |
| Weight | Light | Heavier |
| Corrosion resistance | Excellent | Often requires additional protection |
| Electrical insolution | Good | Conductive |
| Chemical resistance | Often excellent | Depends on the alloy |
| Temperature resistance | Depends on the material | Often higher |
| Maintenance | Limited | May require coating or protection |
| Machinability | Easily machinable | Easily machinable |
| Cost | Often cost-effective for complex parts | Depends on the type of material |
The History and Rise of Plastics
For many years, metal has been the undisputed standard in the manufacturing industry, but that status is now under pressure. In recent years, plastics have made an impressive advance as an alternative. While they were once used primarily as inexpensive substitutes for everyday applications, we now have access to a wide range of engineering and high-performance plastics.
Thanks to new production methods and a growing understanding of material properties, engineers are increasingly using plastics for demanding applications. Particularly in precision sectors such as the semiconductor and analytical industries, where margins for error are minimal, plastics are increasingly proving to be a smarter and better alternative to metal.
When should you choose plastic over metal?
Plastic is often chosen when one or more of the following properties are important.
Weight reduction
Plastics are significantly lighter than metals. This can offer advantages for moving parts, machine construction, and applications where transport weight is a factor.
Preventing Corrosion
In humid or chemically aggressive environments, plastic often offers a longer service life than steel or aluminum.
Electrical insulation
Many plastics have excellent insulating properties and are therefore widely used in high-tech equipment and electronics.
Chemical Resistance
Materials such as PTFE, PEEK, and PEI are resistant to aggressive chemicals and cleaning processes.
Manufacturing Complex Parts
With modern CNC machining techniques, complex plastic parts can be manufactured with a high degree of precision.
The Advantages of Plastic Over Metal
The decision to use plastic is increasingly based on technical and economic considerations rather than on assumptions. The advantages speak for themselves:
- Lower weight without loss of strength
- Corrosion-resistant and low-maintenance
- High dimensional stability with precise machining
- Low coefficient of friction
- Saves costs on materials, transportation, and production
With the wide variety of plastics with unique properties available on the market today, there is always a plastic that suits your application.
From Metal to Plastic: Here’s What That Looks Like in Practice
Sometimes the difference lies in the details. A customer in the semiconductor sector faced a choice: continue working with metal, or make the switch to plastic. Together with BKB Precision, they explored the possibilities. By cleverly redesigning the component in plastic, each unit became more than half a kilo lighter. That savings translated into lower material costs, reduced shipping weight, and a more stable process.
BKB Precision was involved from the start of this transition project: from material advice and machining techniques to cleaning and assembly. Thanks to our knowledge and experience, we were able to adapt quickly and work together to achieve an optimal end product.
We have since successfully guided multiple customers—including those in the semiconductor, analytical, and other industries—through similar material transitions. Find out how the entire project unfolded or contact us for further assistance with your project.
In which industries is plastic being used more and more, and why?
In the semiconductor industry, cleanliness, dimensional stability, and low outgassing play a crucial role. Plastics such as PEEK, PTFE, and PEI offer excellent properties for these applications.
Plastic is widely used in medical devices because of its combination of sterilizability, precision, and chemical resistance.
Weight reduction and reliability are making plastic an increasingly attractive option for defense applications.
Plastics are used in laboratory and analytical equipment because of their dimensional stability and chemical resistance.
From Metal to Eco-Friendly: How Plastics Contribute to Sustainability
In many applications, plastics prove to be not only more practical but also more sustainable than metal. They are lighter, resistant to corrosion—which means they last longer—and require less energy to produce and use. Furthermore, less mass also means fewer emissions during transportation, and reuse and recycling are possible in an increasing number of cases.
At BKB Precision, we take our responsibility seriously. We publish our annual progress report on sustainability and are constantly working to make our processes and decisions even more sustainable.
How do you determine which material is best suited?
The choice between plastic and metal is determined by several factors:
- Mechanical load
- Temperature
- Chemical resistance
- Desired tolerances
- Service life
- Weight
- Cleanability
- Certification requirements
- Cost
By considering these factors early in the design process, significant benefits can often be realized
Future Outlook: What Can We Expect?
The shift from metal to plastic is still in its infancy. But thanks to ongoing innovations in materials, more advanced machining techniques, and growing expertise among engineers, the potential applications of plastics will continue to expand. Think of lighter machines, smarter designs, and more sustainable production processes.
At BKB Precision, we push the technical boundaries every day. We continuously invest in knowledge, machinery, and collaboration to get the most out of plastic processing, and we’ll continue to do so. What’s groundbreaking today could be the new standard tomorrow.
Curious about how we can support you with your next project?
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Metals are often stronger under high loads. However, some high-performance plastics can be an excellent alternative in specific applications.
That depends on the application. Thanks to its lighter weight, lower maintenance requirements, and efficient production, plastic can often offer an attractive total-cost solution.
These include semiconductors, medical technology, analytical equipment, defense, and high-tech mechanical engineering, among others.
No. Plastics do not corrode like steel or other metals.
When high temperatures, chemical exposure, extreme precision, or specific certifications are a factor.
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The power of PEEK – the high-performance material for precision applications
The strength of PEEK
What exactly makes PEEK so unique? This high-performance polymer combines the strength and wear resistance of metals with the flexibility and light weight of plastics. Whereas traditional plastics like PVC or PP deform quickly at high temperatures, PEEK retains its strength and structural integrity even under extreme conditions
Compared to metals, PEEK offers not only weight savings, but also better resistance to corrosion and chemical attack. This combination of properties makes it an indispensable material in high-tech applications where precision and durability are paramount.
Precision in PEEK machining: complex, but our expertise
Machining PEEK seems simple at first glance, but it presents specific challenges. Due to its toughness and wear resistance, high friction occurs during turning and milling, which can lead to heat generation and deformation. This requires precise cutting parameters and special tools to keep the machining process stable.
To achieve tolerances down to the hundredth of a millimeter, a perfectly balanced process is essential. Finishing also plays a crucial role: the wrong milling strategy can lead to a rough or damaged surface.
How do we tackle this? At BKB Precision, we combine advanced machinery, specialist knowledge and strict process control and ensure an optimal end result every time.
Advanced machinery with specialist knowledge and process control for a perfect end result. Not for nothing is PEEK the most frequently machined material in our workshop.
Why choose PEEK? The most important advantages
PEEK is a material that has proven itself in demanding industries. The main advantages for choosing this material are:
- High temperature resistance up to approximately 280 °C
- High wear resistance
- Despite the strength of the material, it is lighter than many metals
- Resistant to many corrosive substances
- Biocompatible
PEEK in the world of high-tech applications
PEEK is a crucial material, especially for the medical and semicon industries, where reliability and precision are vital. In the medical industry, PEEK is widely used for implants and surgical instruments, increasingly replacing metals. This is because PEEK is more body-friendly and more resistant to wear.
In the semicon industry, PEEK is an ideal choice for applications that operate under extreme conditions. Among other applications, the material is used for connectors and insulators where thermal stability and chemical resistance are essential. PEEK offers reliable performance in the production of semiconductor components that have high demands for accuracy and reliability.
View several practical examples to the right or feel free to contact us with any questions!
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BKB Precision Group publishes Sustainability Report 2024 on World Environment Day
Why transparency and sustainability are at the heart of the BKB Precision Group
As pioneers in our field, we believe that sharing this report and related sustainability efforts not only demonstrates our commitment, but also inspires others to move in the same direction. We are committed to sustainability, not only because it is necessary, but because we believe it will define the future of our field.
By sharing our progress and challenges, we hope not only to increase our own impact, but also to encourage a broad network of companies and organizations to join us. As such, this report is more than a review of our accomplishments.
What to expect: The key themes in our Sustainability Report 2024
In our Sustainability Report 2024, we again focus on the three pillars: Environment, Social and Governance (ESG). We share our progress in reducing our environmental impact, supporting employees and communities, and strengthening our governance. The report provides a transparent overview of our achievements, goals and the steps we continue to take to make a positive impact.
View the BKB Precision Group Sustainability Report 2024
Within the BKB Precision Group, we are of course aware that we have already made great strides, but also that the work is not yet done. Our Sustainability Report 2024 provides a clear overview of our achievements as well as the goals we still want to achieve. The report offers valuable insights into how we as BKB Precision Group continue to work towards a more sustainable and transparent future, with concrete actions that contribute to a positive impact on both the environment and society. View the 2024 Sustainability Report now via the button below!
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Plastics and the defense industry
Big, heavy and seemingly impenetrable
Whereas defense equipment used to be mainly big, heavy and seemingly impenetrable, that image has now changed considerably. Of course, there are still impressive armored vehicles, fighter planes and naval vessels. But modern warfare is increasingly about small units, speed, movability, invisibility and lightweight equipment.
Stronger through innovation. Lighter through plastic.
The new role of plastics in the defense industry
It should come as no surprise that plastics, previously hardly used in defense applications, are now playing an indispensable role. From drones and vehicles to advanced combat clothing, plastic components are being used everywhere, replacing metals or other materials.
Weight and material properties are often decisive in material selection. Even a small reduction in weight can make a big difference in the mobility and effectiveness of military personnel.
In short, where plastics used to be thought to “not make a dent in a packet of butter,” they are now indispensable in today’s defense industry. New tactics and strategic principles make plastics – as in other industries – a key component in innovation. Indeed, thanks to the use of plastics, there are more possibilities because of the diverse material properties.
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Trends and developments in plastic machining: What will 2025 bring?
1. Development in bonding
The market is making increasingly high demands for high-quality and durable bonding of plastics, particularly in sectors such as medical technology. At BKB Precision, we are investing heavily in the optimization of our bonding processes in 2025. With the purchase of a plasma treatment device, a dispensing device and an XYZ robot (planned for Q1 2025), we are taking our precision and efficiency to a new level.
These innovations will enable us to meet our customers’ increasingly stringent expectations and maintain a competitive edge. Once these new techniques are fully integrated into our processes, we will elaborate on their operation and the benefits they offer to our customers and markets in a future blog.
2. Sustainability
Sustainability will remain a spearhead for BKB Precision in 2025. As we did in 2024, we are again committed to various sustainability initiatives this year to further minimize our impact on the environment and achieve our stated goals. We are currently busy preparing our 2024 sustainability report and working on further specifying our climate awareness to meet the strictest regulations within the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
At BKB Precision, we are convinced that sustainability is not just a trend, but a necessary basis for long-term success and a better world. This is why we like to be at the forefront of this field within the plastics processing industry! Check out our sustainability activities now via the button below.
3. Further development from metal to plastic
We notice that customers are increasingly developing their products from metal to plastic, and we expect this trend to continue in 2025. This shift is not without reason: plastic offers numerous advantages over metal, such as lower weight, corrosion resistance and greater design freedom. Moreover, plastic machining processes often enable more efficient and cost-effective production without sacrificing precision and durability.
Thanks to continuous technological advances, more and more high-performance plastics are being developed that can match or even exceed the properties of metal. A good example of this is PEEK, an extremely strong and wear-resistant plastic. The product you see here shows how one of our customers successfully made the transition from metal to plastic. Read how this transition led to a better and more sustainable end product via the button below.
4. Digitization
As in 2024, digitization will remain a key theme within the manufacturing industry in 2025. Partly due to the rise of AI, this theme also continues to develop at a rapid pace. The more efficient, faster and more reliable exchange of data between companies contributes to higher productivity and shorter lead times. In an industry where pressure is high and delivery times are under stress, digital optimization is becoming increasingly crucial to remain competitive.
At BKB Precision, we therefore continue to invest in digitalization. Whereas in 2024 we already took steps in this area, in 2025 we will take further steps to optimize our processes. The integration of AI and advanced digital systems will help us cooperate even more efficiently with customers and partners, reduce error margins and shorten production times. Digitalization is no longer an option, but a necessity for companies that want to remain future-proof.
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The top 5 durable plastics
Durable plastics
Wear resistance can be put into two categories: durability and robustness. Or to be more precise: low friction combined with a long lifespan, which is important for bearings, for example. Wear-resistant plastics have several advantages over metal or bronze equivalents, such as high dynamic load capacity, good dry-running properties, weight, chemical resistance, and cost price.
The top 5 wear-resistant plastics and their characteristics are listed below.
1. Polyamide (PA)
Polyamide (PA), also known as nylon, is one of the most commonly used wear-resistant plastics. It is widely used in manufacturing processes to produce wear plates, gears, and plain bearings. The material has relatively high stiffness and is ideally suited for heavy dynamic loads and offers good vibration-damping properties. Its temperature range is between -40° and +100°C. Furthermore, polyamide does not age quickly, and most grades are resistant to high temperatures.
Because PA is available in many grades with specific additives, it is a highly versatile material suitable for a wide variety of applications. In the semiconductor industry, PA is frequently used in mechanical components that combine dynamic loads with the requirement for low particle shedding. The most commonly used grades are: PA6G, PA6 MoS₂, PA12, glass-filled PA (PA6 GF30), carbon-filled PA (PA6 CF20), and oil-filled PA.
2. HMPE (Werkstoff-S)
High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (HMPE) is widely used in the food industry. This wear-resistant material, which has a relatively low coefficient of friction, can be supplied with a food safety certificate and is therefore safe for use in processes where it comes into direct contact with food.
Furthermore, unlike PA/Nylon, for example, HMPE does not absorb moisture. When using it, however, care must be taken to ensure that friction does not cause temperatures to rise too high (<80°C).
There are several variants of HMPE, including HMPE-500 and 1000. The latter is well known under the brand name “Werkstof-S” and is even more wear-resistant than HMPE 500. It can therefore be used even under the most demanding conditions and at extremely low temperatures down to -200°C. Furthermore, HMPE-1000 allows virtually no other materials to adhere to it. In addition to the food industry, HMPE is used in guide components where low friction and minimal particle generation are critical, such as in cleanroom environments.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
3. POM
Like Nylon or polyamide, POM is a widely used, wear-resistant plastic. The material is also known as Delrin and Polyacetal. POM is much less wear-resistant than Nylon and Arnite, which means it is mainly used for manufacturing high-precision parts which do not have to undergo high stress.
POM is lightweight, dimensionally stable, does not discolour, and is well-suited for making accurate parts. However, it has limited wear resistance, so this material should ideally be seen as a normal construction plastic. The most commonly used POM variants are:
- POM-C
- POM with 10% PTFE
- POM MoS2
- POM ELS (electrically conductive)
4. PETP (Arnite)
Polyethylene terephthalate, also known as PETP plastic or Arnite, is less well-known but certainly not of inferior quality or less versatile. PETP is wear-resistant, creep-resistant, hard, and has low moisture absorption. This makes it highly suitable for applications requiring complex parts combined with the most stringent requirements for dimensional accuracy and surface quality.
When using PETP, it is important to note that, due to the material’s extreme hardness, it is more brittle, and impact loads should therefore be avoided. It can withstand temperatures up to 110°C for extended periods and is suitable for applications in the food industry. The combination of dimensional accuracy and low moisture absorption makes PETP suitable for precision components in metrology and analytical applications.
5. PEEK
Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high-performance thermoplastic material that is an excellent choice for demanding applications and offers outstanding wear resistance. It is resistant to high temperatures, chemicals, and radiation. PEEK can be used continuously at operating temperatures up to 250 °C. Furthermore, it can be used in hot water or steam without compromising its physical properties.
PEEK is easy to machine and offers exceptional strength, dimensional stability, and stiffness. Due to its high performance, PEEK is used in many challenging environments in the medical, nuclear, chemical processing, and aerospace industries. There are also various types of PEEK on the market with modified compositions tailored to specific applications. The most commonly used variants are: PEEK BG (special bearing grade), PEEK TF 10 (excellent sliding and wear resistance properties), glass-filled PEEK (PEEK GF 30), and carbon fiber-filled PEEK (PEEK CF 30).
A Comparison of the Properties and Applications of Wear-Resistant Plastics
| Material | Max. operating temperature | Wear resistance | Typical application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyamide (PA) | -40°C to +100°C | High, good damping properties | Wear plates, gears, plain bearings |
| HMPE | Up to -200°C, friction limited to < 80°C | Very high, low coefficient of friction | Food industry, guides |
| POM | Standard engineering applications | Limited compared to PA | Precision parts with lower loads |
| PETP | Up to 110°C | High, creep-resistant | Complex parts with tight tolerances |
| Peek | Up to 250°C | Very high, even at high temperatures | Medical, nuclear, chemical, and aerospace applications |
Machining Wear-Resistant Plastics
Once the right material has been selected, the next step is to turn it into a precision part. BKB Precision machines wear-resistant plastics such as PA, HMPE, POM, PETP, and PEEK with an accuracy of up to 3 μm, from prototypes to medium-sized production runs. Because material selection and machining take place under one roof, we are able to maintain the tolerances required for applications in industries such as semiconductors, medical devices, and analytics.
Curious to find out which wear-resistant plastic best suits your specific application and tolerance requirements? Contact us or explore our capabilities for CNC machining of plastics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wear-Resistant Plastics
PEEK and HMPE are among the most wear-resistant plastics. PEEK retains its wear resistance even at high operating temperatures up to 250°C, while HMPE stands out for its very low coefficient of friction and operability down to -200°C. Which of the two is most suitable depends on the application: PEEK for high temperatures and chemical exposure, HMPE for low friction and low temperatures.
Polyamide is more wear-resistant than POM and better able to withstand dynamic loads and vibrations. POM is less wear-resistant but has excellent dimensional stability, making it more suitable for precision parts that are subjected to lower loads.
HMPE and POM are widely used in the food industry, are available with a food safety certificate, and do not absorb moisture.
This varies greatly depending on the material: Polyamide can be used between -40°C and +100°C, HMPE up to -200°C, PETP up to 110°C, and PEEK up to 250°C.
Wear-resistant plastics offer advantages over their metal or bronze equivalents, such as high dynamic load capacity, good dry-running properties, lower weight, chemical resistance, and a lower cost.
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4 gluing techniques explained
Various gluing techniques for gluing plastic
In addition to professional skill, accuracy, and the right materials, choosing the right gluing technique is also extremely important. At BKB Precision, we therefore specialize in various gluing techniques, including 2-component gluing, ultraviolet gluing, and the use of solvents and specifically prescribed adhesives. Which technique we choose depends on the kind of plastic, its porosity and absorbency.
1. 2-component glue or 2k glue
A commonly used gluing technique within BKB Precision is the use of 2k or 2-component glue. Characteristic of this technique is that the glue is made up of two components which only hardens after they have been mixed together. When the two components are mixed, the resulting glue has to be applied quickly. The end result is an extremely strong bond. In addition, this gluing technique can be applied to many different materials.
2. Ultraviolet glue or UV bonding
Ultraviolet glues or UV bonding are suitable for gluing various materials, including many types of plastic. This method involves hardening a special formula of liquid plastic by treating it with UV light. The adhesion of the glue depends on it being activated by a UV lamp. This allows for fast and manageable gluing at room temperature.
The advantages of this technique include high strength and the ability to create straight lines. In addition, this technique can easily be applied as part of an automatic production process.
3. Solvent glue
We also use solvent glue within our company wherever necessary. This kind of glue consists of an adhesive dissolved in a specific agent. This glue doesn’t harden, but rather the adhesive bond is established as the solvent is absorbed or evaporates. The advantage of this technique is that the plastic to be processed will still have its original shape after gluing.
4. Specific adhesives
Naturally, our specialists always look for the most effective gluing technique based on the circumstances of the specific case. If the use of certain other specific adhesives is desirable, we will of course always choose the most suitable technique.
Would you like more information on our plastic processing and gluing techniques? Then please contact us now without obligation and we would be happy to give you our expert advice!
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Plastics milling: What are the trends in high-tech markets?
Trend 1: CNC milling
The way we mill plastics is rapidly changing thanks to technological developments. Where not so long ago it was skilled handwork, nowadays it is computer controlled. We call this CNC milling, where CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. This means you can work faster and more accurately. For example, our advanced turning-milling machines can accurately process plastics of up to 3μm.
Moreover, computer-controlled milling makes it possible to carry out more complex procedures. This trend seamlessly meets the market’s need for innovative high-tech plastic products made to the highest possible quality requirements, and which are also manufactured with the greatest possible precision. In addition, CNC milling also means one can get a clear picture of complex designs at an early stage so that engineers still have the freedom to develop them further.
Trend 2: 5-axis simultaneous milling
Another technological feat we know everything about at BKB Precision is 5-axis simultaneous milling. This is the most advanced method of machining, in which all machining axes can be controlled simultaneously. It’s not for nothing that this technique is often used in the manufacture of highly complex products.
We have six such machines in our air-conditioned production hall, which includes robots. Thanks to robot loading, we can work even more efficiently and accurately. Trends and developments in this field are also advancing rapidly. The first robots to use self-learning algorithms are already on show at trade fairs. Of course, we keep close track of these developments.
Trend 3: Manufacturing plastic manifolds from high quality plastic
A plastic manifold has several branches or pipes. An important trend within the professional market is to have such a product manufactured from high-quality plastic. This is a highly future-proof solution at a relatively low cost.
In addition, plastic offers more design freedom and very high chemical resistance. High performance plastics such as PEEK or PEI in particular are excellent alternatives to metal components. Their low weight also means that highly dynamic systems perform even better.
Trend 4: High performance plastics milling
Another trend we cannot ignore is the growing demand for high performance plastics. These are plastics which perform well under extreme conditions, with qualities such as a high degree of temperature and chemical resistance. This makes such plastics ideal for the high-tech industry.
Consider applications in the aerospace industry, medical industry and semicon industry. Some high performance plastics can even be used as an alternative to steel. Thanks to our many years of experience in milling high performance plastics, we know all about its possibilities and can offer our customers the best advice in the field. You can also have your prototypes developed with us.