Introduction to Delrin CNC Machining
Delrin (POM) is an engineering thermoplastic prized in precision CNC machining for its exceptional dimensional stability, low friction, and high stiffness. It delivers outstanding durability and wear resistance, making it the ideal choice for high-performance components like gears, bearings, and insulators that require smooth operation and long service life. At Clarwe, we expertly machine all Delrin formulations, from standard homopolymer to advanced PTFE-filled grades, ensuring your parts meet exact functional requirements in even the most demanding applications.
Key Advantages of Delrin:
Delrin vs. Other Plastics
While materials like Nylon, ABS, and PEEK each offer specific benefits, Delrin is the superior choice for applications requiring a unique combination of stiffness, low friction, and machinability. Compared to Nylon, Delrin absorbs less moisture, ensuring better dimensional stability. Unlike ABS, it offers higher strength and wear resistance. And versus PEEK, Delrin provides a far more cost-effective solution for applications that don't require extreme temperatures.
| Material | Strength/Stiffness | Friction Coefficient | Moisture Resistance | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delrin (POM) | High | Very Low | Excellent | $$ | Gears, bearings, high-wear components |
| Nylon (PA) | Medium | Low | Poor | $ | Tough, flexible parts, fasteners |
| ABS | Medium | Medium | Good | $ | Prototypes, enclosures, consumer products |
| PEEK | Very High | Low | Excellent | $$$$ | High-temperature, chemical-resistant parts |
Delrin Formulations: Properties and Applications
At Clarwe, we know that the right Delrin grade is crucial for your part's performance. That’s why we offer machining expertise across the full spectrum of POM formulations, from standard homopolymer to specialized filled grades. Each delivers a unique balance of low friction, stability, and strength for your most demanding applications.
Common Delrin Grades & Their Uses
Delrin Homopolymer (POM-H)
The precision workhorse. Offers the highest stiffness and fatigue resistance, making it the standard for high-performance gears, bearings, and fasteners.
Delrin Copolymer (POM-C)
The stable choice. Better resistance to hot water and chemicals, ideal for plumbing components, food processing fittings, and medical devices.
Delrin AF (PTFE-filled)
The self-lubricating specialist. Infused with PTFE for the lowest coefficient of friction, perfect for bushings, sliding bearings, and parts that must run dry.
Glass-Filled Delrin
The reinforced strongman. Enhanced stiffness and superior creep resistance for structural components, rollers, and high-load applications.
Technical Specifications of Popular Delrin Formulations
| Formulation | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Friction Coefficient | Moisture Absorption (%) | Key Property | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delrin Homopolymer (POM-H) | 70 | 0.2 | 0.2 | Highest Stiffness & Fatigue Resistance | Precision gears, bearings, conveyor parts |
| Delrin Copolymer (POM-C) | 62 | 0.25 | 0.22 | Better Chemical & Hydrolytic Stability | Food industry valves, medical components, showerheads |
| Delrin AF (PTFE-filled) | 45 | 0.08 | 0.2 | Lowest Friction, Self-Lubricating | Wear strips, sliding bearings, non-lube gears |
| Glass-Filled Delrin (20%) | 85 | 0.3 | 0.17 | Highest Creep Resistance, Enhanced Stiffness | Pump housings, structural supports, rollers |
How to Choose the Right Delrin Grade for Your Project
Selecting the optimal Delrin depends on your part's function, operating environment, and performance needs. Need the ultimate in wear resistance and low friction for a moving part? Delrin AF is your answer. Designing a component for repeated sterilization or wet environments? Delrin Copolymer provides superior stability. Requiring the highest possible stiffness for a structural application? Glass-Filled Delrin delivers.
Our engineering team is here to guide you. During our complimentary Design for Manufacturability (DFM) review, we’ll recommend the most cost-effective and high-performing Delrin formulation to ensure your project's success.
CNC Machining Capabilities for Delrin
At Clarwe, we specialize in precision machining of Delrin, leveraging advanced technology and material-specific expertise to transform your designs into high-performance plastic components. Our comprehensive capabilities ensure we can handle any project complexity, from simple prototypes to high-volume production runs with exceptional accuracy.
CNC Milling Services for Delrin
Our multi-axis CNC milling centers are optimized for Delrin's unique properties, delivering precision parts with excellent surface finishes and tight tolerances. With 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis machining capabilities, we create complex geometries, intricate features, and smooth contours perfect for gears, guides, and structural components.
- ⇒ 5-Axis Simultaneous Machining: Complex contours and undercuts in a single setup
- ⇒ High-Speed Machining: Optimized feed rates and specialized tooling for superior finishes
- ⇒ Large Capacity Machining: Handling parts up to 60" x 30" x 24" on our largest mills
- ⇒ Micro-Machining: Precision features down to 0.3mm with extreme accuracy
CNC Turning Services for Delrin
Our CNC turning capabilities produce precision round Delrin parts with excellent concentricity and smooth finishes. Using both standard and Swiss-style lathes with plastic-specific tooling, we deliver turned components that meet demanding specifications for roundness and tolerance requirements.
- ⇒ Multi-Axis Turning Centers: Complete complex parts in single operations
- ⇒ Live Tooling Capabilities: Mill and drill features during turning operations
- ⇒ Swiss-Style Precision: Ultra-precise turning for small, complex components
- ⇒ Secondary Operations: Comprehensive finishing and quality control
CNC EDM Services for Delrin
For Delrin components requiring extreme precision and intricate details, our Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) services deliver unmatched accuracy. We utilize both wire and sinker EDM to create fine features, sharp corners, and complex geometries in all Delrin formulations.
- ⇒ Wire EDM: Precision cutting with tolerances to ±0.005mm
- ⇒ Sinker EDM: Complex cavities and intricate shapes
- ⇒ Small Hole EDM: Precision micro-holes as small as 0.2mm diameter
- ⇒ Custom Electrodes: Manufactured in-house for specific applications
Injection Molding for Delrin
For high-volume production needs, our injection molding service delivers cost-effective Delrin components with consistent quality and rapid cycle times. We manage the entire process through our certified partner network, ensuring your parts meet exact specifications every time.
- ⇒ Multi-Cavity Molds: High-volume production with consistent quality
- ⇒ Insert Molding: Combining metal and Delrin components in single process
- ⇒ Fast Cycle Times: Optimized production for cost-effective manufacturing
- ⇒ Full DFM Support: Design optimization for manufacturability and performance
Urethane Casting for Delrin-like Properties
When you need the properties of Delrin in smaller quantities or with faster turnaround, our urethane casting service offers an excellent alternative. We use advanced urethane resins that mimic Delrin's characteristics for prototypes and low-volume production.
- ⇒ Rapid Prototyping: Functional parts in as little as 3-5 days
- ⇒ Delrin-like Materials: Simulating mechanical properties and performance
- ⇒ Cost-Effective Tooling: Low mold costs for small batch production
- ⇒ Multiple Material Options: Various durometers and properties available
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Process | Tolerance Capability | Standard Lead Time | Max Part Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Milling | ±0.025mm | 2-3 days | 60" x 30" x 24" | Complex 3D shapes, gears, structural parts |
| CNC Turning | ±0.05mm | 3-5 days | Ø250mm x 400mm | Round parts, bushings, fittings |
| CNC EDM | ±0.01mm | 5-7 days | 300mm x 200mm x 150mm | Intricate details, fine features |
| Injection Molding | ±0.1mm | 2-4 weeks | 500g shot size | High-volume production, complex shapes |
| Urethane Casting | ±0.15mm | 5-10 days | 24" x 24" x 24" | Prototypes, low-volume production |
Whether you need precision machining, high-volume molding, or rapid prototyping, our team has the expertise and equipment to manufacture your Delrin parts to exact specifications. We combine advanced technology with material-specific knowledge to deliver results that meet your most demanding requirements.
See Our Full CNC Capabilities | Request a Free Consultation | Explore Available Delrin Grades
Surface Finishing Options for Delrin Parts
Enhance the performance, appearance, and functionality of your machined Delrin components with our specialized surface finishing services. From improving wear resistance to adding color coding and aesthetic appeal, we provide the perfect finish to meet your project requirements and elevate the quality of your plastic components.
Post-Machining Finishes
Achieve the perfect surface texture and appearance for your Delrin parts with our mechanical finishing options:
• Precision Sanding: Smooth surface preparation for subsequent finishing steps.
• Micro-bead Blasting: Uniform matte finish that eliminates tool marks.
• Tumbling: Deburring and edge-breaking for improved handling and safety.
• Polishing: High-gloss finish for decorative or low-friction applications.
Coating & Treatment Options
We offer specialized coating solutions to enhance Delrin's natural properties and add functional benefits:
• PTFE-Impregnated Coatings: Further reduce friction for ultra-smooth operation.
• Wear-Resistant Coatings: Extend service life in high-abrasion applications.
• Custom Painting: Color coding for part identification and brand alignment.
• Anti-Static Treatments: Reduce static buildup in electronic applications.
Specialized Processes
Advanced finishing techniques designed specifically for Delrin's unique properties:
• Thermal Stabilization: Reduce internal stresses and improve dimensional stability.
• Precision Annealing: Optimize material properties for specific applications.
• Laser Marking: Permanent identification without material degradation.
• Surface Texturing: Create specific patterns for grip or aesthetic purposes.
Secondary Operations
Complete your Delrin parts with value-added services that enhance functionality:
• Precision Drilling & Tapping: Add threaded features for assembly.
• Insert Installation: Metal threaded inserts for repeated fastening.
• Ultrasonic Welding: Join multiple Delrin components seamlessly.
• Quality Inspection: Comprehensive measurement and validation.
Delrin Surface Finishing Comparison
| Finish Type | Process Time | Surface Improvement | Wear Resistance | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro-bead Blasting | 1-2 hours | Matte appearance, uniform texture | Moderate | Medical devices, consumer products |
| Polishing | 2-4 hours | Mirror-like finish, reduced friction | Good | Low-friction components, decorative parts |
| PTFE Coating | 4-8 hours | Lowest coefficient of friction | Excellent | Bushings, bearings, sliding components |
| Wear-Resistant Coating | 6-12 hours | Enhanced surface hardness | Superior | High-abrasion environments, industrial parts |
| Laser Marking | 1-3 hours | Permanent identification | N/A | Medical, aerospace, part identification |
Whether you need functional enhancement, aesthetic improvement, or specialized surface properties, our finishing experts will recommend the optimal solution for your Delrin components. Every finish is applied with strict quality control to ensure consistent results that meet your specifications and performance requirements.
Delrin CNC Machining Applications by Industry
From prototyping to full-scale production, Delrin CNC machining provides reliable, high-performance solutions across diverse industries. At Clarwe, we've partnered with engineers and designers to create precision components that leverage Delrin's unique properties for demanding applications where low friction, dimensional stability, and wear resistance matter most.
Automotive & Transportation
Delrin's self-lubricating properties and durability make it ideal for automotive applications where reducing maintenance and weight are critical. Our components help improve vehicle efficiency and reliability across various systems.
• Fuel system components and pump gears
• Window regulator gears and guide bushings
• Seat adjustment mechanisms and belt system components
• Sensor mounts and electrical insulation parts
• HVAC system components and air flow valves
Medical & Healthcare
Precision and biocompatibility make Delrin an excellent choice for medical applications. We machine medical-grade components that meet strict regulatory requirements and perform reliably in sensitive environments.
• Surgical instrument handles and components
• Drug delivery system parts and pump components
• Medical device housings and enclosures
• Orthopedic device trial components and spacers
• Laboratory equipment and diagnostic device parts
Consumer Goods & Electronics
From everyday products to advanced electronics, Delrin provides the perfect combination of performance and aesthetics. Our components enhance product functionality while maintaining sleek appearances.
• Consumer appliance gears and mechanisms
• Camera and optical equipment components
• Audio equipment sliders and adjustment parts
• Sporting goods components and equipment parts
• Furniture mechanisms and hardware components
Industrial & Manufacturing
Keep operations running smoothly with Delrin components that withstand continuous use in demanding environments. From factory automation to material handling, we deliver parts that reduce maintenance and improve efficiency.
• Conveyor system components and guide rails
• Gear systems and timing pulleys
• Bearing cages and bushings for machinery
• Valve components and fluid handling parts
• Sensor mounts and inspection fixture components
Food Processing & Packaging
FDA-compliant Delrin formulations meet food safety requirements while providing excellent durability in wet environments. Our components help maintain hygiene and reliability in food processing applications.
• Food handling system components and guides
• Packaging machine parts and seals
• Dairy and beverage processing components
• Conveyor system bushings and wear strips
• Inspection equipment and measurement devices
Industry Applications at a Glance
| Industry | Common Delrin Grades | Key Requirements | Typical Components |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive | POM-H, Delrin AF | Wear resistance, low friction, durability | Gears, bushings, fuel system parts |
| Medical | POM-C, FDA-compliant | Biocompatibility, precision, cleanability | Surgical tools, device components |
| Consumer Goods | POM-H, Colored | Aesthetics, smooth operation, durability | Appliance gears, mechanism parts |
| Industrial | POM-H, Glass-filled | Strength, wear resistance, low maintenance | Conveyor parts, gears, bearings |
| Food Processing | FDA-compliant POM-C | Chemical resistance, food safety, durability | Handling components, seals, guides |
No matter your industry or application, our engineering team understands the unique challenges and requirements of your sector. We deliver Delrin components that not only meet specifications but exceed expectations for performance, reliability, and quality in even the most demanding environments.
Quality Assurance and Certifications for Delrin Components
At Clarwe, quality is engineered into every Delrin component we produce. Our rigorous quality management system, backed by in-house inspection expertise and a network of certified partners, ensures every part meets the highest standards of precision, reliability, and performance for your most critical applications.
| Certifications & Compliance |
We maintain and work with partners who hold rigorous certifications that demonstrate our shared commitment to excellence across industries: ISO 9001:2015 Certified: Quality management system certification AS9100D Certified: Aerospace quality management system ISO 13485:2016 Certified: Medical device quality management FDA Compliance: Material compliance for food and medical applications PPAP Levels 1-5: Production part approval process capabilities for automotive and industrial sectors |
| Quality Control Processes |
Our multi-stage inspection process ensures every Delrin part meets your exact specifications: First Article Inspection (FAIR): Comprehensive initial part validation against all requirements In-Process Inspection: Real-time quality checks during critical machining operations Final Inspection: Complete dimensional and visual verification before shipment Statistical Process Control: Continuous monitoring of machining processes for consistency Complete Documentation Package: Detailed quality records with every order |
| Advanced Inspection Equipment |
We utilize state-of-the-art metrology equipment to verify the accuracy and integrity of every Delrin component: Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM): ±0.005mm accuracy for complex geometries and critical dimensions 3D Laser Scanning: Keyence VR-5000 series for comprehensive surface analysis and deviation heatmaps Optical Comparators: Precise 2D profile measurement and verification Surface Roughness Testers: Quantitative surface finish validation per ISO 1302 standards Custom Fixturing: Part-specific inspection setups for complex Delrin components |
| Quality Documentation |
We provide comprehensive documentation with every Delrin order: • Certificate of Conformity: Material and specification compliance verification • First Article Inspection Reports: Detailed initial part validation data • Material Certifications: Mill test reports with full chemical and mechanical properties • Inspection Reports: Complete dimensional validation data with actual measurements • Process Certifications: Special process documentation including PPAP Level 3-5 submissions |
| Industry-Specific Compliance |
Our quality systems meet the strict requirements of regulated industries: • Aerospace: AS9102 FAIR, flight-critical documentation, and full traceability requirements • Medical: ISO 13485 compliance, biocompatibility documentation, and sterilization validation support • Automotive: PPAP levels 1-5, statistical process capability reporting, and control plans • Consumer Products: FDA compliance for food-contact applications and material safety documentation • Industrial Equipment: Performance validation and durability testing documentation |
Quality Capabilities Overview
| Inspection Method | Accuracy Capability | Best For | Industry Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMM Inspection | ±0.005mm | Complex 3D geometries, free-form surfaces | Aerospace, medical devices |
| 3D Laser Scanning | ±0.002mm | Comprehensive surface analysis, deviation mapping | Automotive, consumer products |
| Optical Measurement | ±0.002mm | 2D profiles, contour verification | Electronics, industrial parts |
| Surface Roughness | ±0.001μm | Surface finish validation | Medical, aerospace |
| Visual Inspection | N/A | Cosmetic defects, surface quality verification | All industries |
From raw material certification to final inspection, our quality assurance team ensures every Delrin component meets your exact requirements. We provide the documentation and traceability you need to have complete confidence in the reliability and performance of every part we deliver.
Get a Project Review | Contact Our Engineering Team | Request a Callback
Design Guidelines for Delrin CNC Machining
Designing Delrin parts for CNC machining requires understanding this material's unique properties and behaviors. Follow these expert guidelines to optimize your designs for better performance, faster production, and lower costs. Our engineering team is always available for free Design for Manufacturability (DFM) analysis before you place your order.
Key Design Considerations
- Wall Thickness: Maintain minimum 0.8mm wall thickness for stability
- Internal Corners: Use generous radii (recommended: 0.5mm minimum) to reduce stress concentration
- Hole Depth: Limit through holes to 6x diameter, blind holes to 4x diameter
- Thread Depth: Design internal threads at least 1.5x hole diameter deep
- Text Engraving: Minimum 0.8mm character height with bold, sans-serif fonts
- Tolerances: Specify critical dimensions only (±0.1mm standard) to avoid unnecessary costs
Standard Machining Tolerances
- Standard Machining: ±0.1mm (±0.004")
- Precision Machining: ±0.05mm (±0.002")
- High-Precision: ±0.025mm (±0.001") with specialized processes
- Surface Finish: Standard Ra 3.2μm, fine machining Ra 1.6μm achievable
Recommended Design Parameters for Delrin
| Feature Type | Recommended Value | Minimum Value | Design Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Thickness | 1.5mm | 0.8mm | Use ribs for structural support on thin walls |
| Internal Corner Radius | 0.8mm | 0.5mm | Larger radii reduce stress and improve strength |
| Hole Diameter | Standard drill sizes | 0.5mm | Depth ≤ 6x diameter for stable holes |
| Thread Size | M4 and larger | M3 | Avoid threading near edges (min 1.5x dia from edge) |
| Text Engraving | 1.2mm character height | 0.8mm | Use bold, sans-serif fonts for better readability |
| Minimum Feature Size | 1.0mm | 0.5mm | Consider material flexibility for thin features |
Design for Manufacturing Tips
• Account for Moisture Absorption: Allow for slight dimensional changes in humid environments
• Avoid Sharp Corners: Use generous radii to prevent stress concentration
• Consider Thermal Expansion: Design clearances for temperature variations
• Minimize Setups: Design parts that can be machined in fewer orientations
• Add Chamfers: Include lead-in chamfers for holes and assembly edges
• Group Tolerances: Keep tight tolerances only where absolutely necessary
• Design for Stiffness: Incorporate ribs or curved surfaces to prevent flexing
Cost-Saving Design Strategies
• Simplify Geometry: Reduce complex 3D contours when possible
• Standardize Features: Use standard hole sizes and thread types
• Avoid Deep Cavities: Design with accessible machining paths in mind
• Optimize Material Usage: Design parts to fit standard stock sizes
• Avoid Special Tools: Use features that work with standard cutters
• Simplify Finishing: Specify surface finishes only where needed
• Combine Features: Design multi-functional features when possible
Design for Assembly Considerations
• Clearance Fits: Allow 0.05-0.1mm clearance for press fits in Delrin
• Assembly Access: Ensure tools can access fastening points
• Alignment Features: Include locating pins or alignment marks
• Lubrication-Free Design: Leverage Delrin's self-lubricating properties
• Wear Considerations: Design for even wear distribution in moving parts
• Thermal Expansion: Account for different expansion rates with metal parts
Even if your design doesn't follow all these guidelines, our engineers can help optimize it for manufacturing. Upload your CAD files for a free DFM analysis and online quote to see how we can bring your Delrin parts to life with precision and efficiency.
Why Choose Clarwe for Delrin CNC Machining?
When precision in plastic matters, engineers worldwide trust Clarwe for their mission-critical Delrin components. We combine cutting-edge technology with specialized material expertise to deliver results that generic quoting platforms simply can't match. Here's what sets us apart:
Unmatched Delrin Expertise
➤ Multiple Formulations Available: From standard POM-H to specialized Delrin AF and glass-filled variants
➤ Material Experts On Staff: Get expert grade recommendations for your specific application requirements
➤ Same-Day Quoting: Real engineers review your files and provide quotes within hours, not days
➤ Free DFM Analysis: Detailed design feedback optimized for Delrin's unique characteristics
Precision You Can Trust
➤ Tight Tolerances to ±0.025mm: Achievable with our specialized inspection protocols for plastics
➤ First-Time Quality: 99.2% on-time delivery with 100% quality inspection for every order
➤ AS9100 & ISO 13485 Certified: Meeting aerospace and medical industry standards for plastic components
➤ In-House Quality Lab: Full inspection capabilities including CMM, laser scanning, and surface analysis
The Clarwe Advantage: Engineer-Led Manufacturing
➤ Unlike automated platforms, every Clarwe project receives personal engineering oversight from quote to delivery
➤ Our dedicated engineers become an extension of your team, providing proactive solutions and expert guidance specifically for Delrin's unique machining characteristics
Clarwe vs The Competition
| Capability | Clarwe | Typical Machine Shops | Online Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Support | Dedicated Engineer | Limited or Extra Cost | Automated Only |
| Quality Control | In-House Plastic Specialists | Variable | Partner-Dependent |
| Material Options | Full Delrin Formulation Range | Limited Grades | Basic POM Only |
| Design Feedback | Free Delrin-Specific DFM | Often Additional Cost | Generic Suggestions |
| Certifications | AS9100, ISO 13485, ISO 9001 | Often Limited | Variable |
| Lead Time | 2-3 Day Prototyping | 1-2 Weeks | 3-5 Days |
Seamless Process, Perfect Results
➤ Online Quoting: Upload your CAD file for immediate pricing on Delrin parts➤ Real-Time Project Tracking: Monitor your order with photo updates at every production stage
➤ Comprehensive Documentation: Receive full inspection reports and material certifications
➤ Dedicated Support: Single point of contact throughout your project
Global Capacity, Local Attention
➤ 520+ Manufacturing Partners: Global network with specialized plastic machining capabilities➤ Risk-Free Sourcing: We manage quality across our entire partner network for consistent results
➤ Scalable Production: From 1 prototype to 100,000+ production parts in Delrin
➤ No Tooling Fees: Competitive pricing with no hidden costs for machining services
Join thousands of engineers who have made Clarwe their trusted manufacturing partner for precision plastic components. Experience the difference that engineer-led manufacturing makes—upload your CAD files today for a free, no-obligation quote and detailed DFM analysis specific to Delrin machining.