Machined Plastics: a buyer's sourcing guide
Everything a procurement team should know before opening an RFQ for machined plastics: materials, tolerances, certifications and red flags.
Recent RFQs in machined plastics
Overview
Plastic CNC is the right answer when volumes don't justify injection moulding tooling but the part needs engineering polymer performance: chemical resistance, low friction, biocompatibility.
When to choose this process
Prototypes, ≤1000 pcs/year, semi-finished bar/sheet stock, applications with stress relief constraints.
Typical materials
- PEEK
- POM-C
- PA6 G
- PTFE
- PC
- PVDF
Typical tolerances
±0.05 mm but mind thermal expansion (3–5× metals) and post-machining stress relief.
Certifications to ask for
- ISO 9001
- ISO 13485 (medical)
- FDA, USP Class VI for medical polymers
Frequently asked questions
Why is PEEK so expensive?
Raw bar can cost €400–€1200/kg; cutting parameters are slow to avoid melting; certified medical grades add a premium.
Do I need post-machining annealing?
On thick PEEK or POM, yes — it removes residual stress and prevents cracking in service.
Sourcing countries covered
Editorial market guide. Supplyria is a marketplace; we don't list private suppliers on this page. Cost ranges and lead times are indicative and based on public industry benchmarks.