Introduction to Nylon CNC Machining
Nylon is a versatile engineering thermoplastic prized for its exceptional wear resistance, low friction, and high mechanical strength. It offers an outstanding balance of durability, chemical resistance, and cost-effectiveness—making it ideal for everything from high-performance gears and bearings to insulating components and custom fixtures. At Clarwe, we specialize in precision machining of various nylon grades, each selected for specific applications where reduced weight, noise, and maintenance are critical.
Key Advantages of Nylon:
Nylon vs. Other Materials
While metals like aluminum and brass offer high strength, and other plastics like acetal or PEEK provide specific properties, nylon stands out for applications requiring a combination of wear resistance, low friction, and noise reduction. Compared to metal, nylon is lighter, corrosion-proof, and self-lubricating. Unlike many plastics, it offers better impact resistance and durability for long-lasting performance.
| Material | Wear Resistance | Weight | Machinability | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon | Excellent | Light | Excellent | $$ | Gears, bushings, wear pads, insulators |
| Aluminum | Good | Light | Excellent | $$ | Structural parts, enclosures, heat sinks |
| Stainless Steel | Very High | Heavy | Good | $$$ | High-strength, corrosive environments |
| Acetal (POM) | Excellent | Light | Excellent | $$ | Low-friction precision parts, gears |
| PEEK | Excellent | Light | Good | $$$$ | High-temperature, high-strength applications |
Nylon Materials : Properties and Applications
At Clarwe, we know that selecting the right nylon grade is essential for your part's performance and longevity. That’s why we offer a comprehensive selection of engineering-grade nylons, each with unique characteristics tailored for specific challenges. From the all-purpose Nylon 6 to the robust glass-filled variants, our expertise ensures you get the perfect material for your precision machined components.
Common Nylon Types & Their Uses
Nylon 6 (PA6)
The versatile workhorse. Excellent impact resistance and surface finish make it ideal for gears, bushings, and functional prototypes.
Nylon 66 (PA66)
The high-performance standard. Superior strength and thermal resistance, perfect for under-the-hood automotive parts, mechanical components, and high-wear applications.
Nylon 612 (PA612)
The moisture-resistant option. Lower moisture absorption and excellent chemical resistance, making it the go-to choice for hydraulic fluid components, electrical connectors, and parts in damp environments.
Glass-Filled Nylon (PA6-GF)
The strong and stiff solution. Enhanced structural integrity and heat deflection temperature, commonly used in structural housings, brackets, and high-load bearing parts.
Cast Nylon (MC901)
The durable bearing grade. Superior wear resistance and low friction, ideal for large bearings, wear strips, and heavy-duty industrial applications.
Technical Specifications of Popular Nylon Types
| Nylon Type | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Impact Strength (J/m) | Max Operating Temp (°C) | Machinability Rating | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon 6 (PA6) | 80 | 50 | 120 | Excellent | Gears, bushings, rollers, prototypes |
| Nylon 66 (PA66) | 95 | 60 | 140 | Excellent | Automotive parts, conveyor components, fasteners |
| Nylon 612 (PA612) | 85 | 50 | 100 | Very Good | Fluidic components, electrical insulators, marine parts |
| Nylon 6/30% GF | 150 | 90 | 180 | Good | Structural frames, high-temperature housings, brackets |
| Cast Nylon (MC901) | 90 | 100 | 120 | Very Good | Bearings, wear pads, sheaves, industrial machinery |
How to Choose the Right Nylon for Your Project
Selecting the optimal nylon grade depends on your part's function, operating environment, and required properties. Need maximum wear resistance and low friction for a bearing? Cast Nylon is your answer. Designing a part that requires high structural strength and heat resistance? Glass-Filled Nylon provides the necessary stiffness. Building a component for constant exposure to moisture or chemicals? Nylon 612 offers superior stability.
Our engineers are here to help you navigate these choices. During our free Design for Manufacturability (DFM) review, we’ll recommend the most cost-effective nylon that meets all your performance requirements.
CNC Machining & Manufacturing Capabilities for Nylon
At Clarwe, we leverage advanced manufacturing technologies to transform your nylon designs into high-performance reality. Our extensive multi-process capabilities ensure we can handle any project, from simple prototypes to complex, high-volume production runs with the precision and quality that nylon components demand.
CNC Milling Services
Our multi-axis CNC milling centers are expertly configured for machining engineering plastics. We employ specialized tooling and cutting strategies to prevent heat buildup and achieve superior surface finishes on even the most complex nylon parts, from intricate prototypes to production-grade components.
- ⇒ Multi-Axis Machining: 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis capabilities for complex geometries and undercuts
- ⇒ Specialized Tooling: Sharp, polished flutes that provide clean cuts and prevent material tearing
- ⇒ High-Speed Machining: Optimized feeds and speeds for efficient material removal and excellent finishes
- ⇒ Large Capacity Machining: Handling large-format parts and panels up to 80" x 40" x 30"
CNC Turning Services
Our CNC turning capabilities produce precision round nylon parts with excellent concentricity and smooth finishes. Using both standard and Swiss-style lathes, we deliver bushings, bearings, and insulators that meet tight tolerances and strict roundness requirements.
- ⇒ Precision Swiss Turning: Ideal for small, complex nylon components with tight diameter tolerances
- ⇒ Live Tooling Capabilities: Mill and drill features during turning operations for complete machining
- ⇒ Threading Expertise: Precise single-point and thread milling for strong, clean threads
- ⇒ Secondary Operations: Comprehensive finishing, deburring, and quality control
CNC EDM Services
For the most challenging nylon components requiring extreme precision or features that are difficult to mill, our Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) services deliver unmatched accuracy, especially for glass-filled or reinforced grades.
- ⇒ Wire EDM: Precision cutting of thick nylon plate with tolerances to ±0.02mm
- ⇒ Sinker EDM: Creating complex cavities and intricate shapes without tool pressure
- ⇒ Small Hole EDM: Precision micro-holes and fine features in reinforced nylons
Injection Molding Services
For high-volume production of nylon parts, our injection molding service provides unbeatable cost-efficiency and repeatability. Perfect for producing thousands of identical components with consistent quality.
- ⇒ High-Volume Production: Cost-effective manufacturing for large quantity orders
- ⇒ Multi-Cavity Molds: Simultaneous production of multiple parts for maximum efficiency
- ⇒ Overmolding: Encapsulating metal inserts with nylon for enhanced functionality
- ⇒ Custom Material Formulation: Ability to work with custom-filled or colored compounds
Urethane Casting Services
Bridge the gap between 3D printing and injection molding. Urethane casting is ideal for producing small to medium batches of flexible or rigid nylon-like polyurethane parts with fast turnaround times.
- ⇒ Rapid Prototyping: Produce functional prototypes that mimic final production parts
- ⇒ Low-Volume Production: Economical solution for 10-500 parts
- ⇒ Material Flexibility: Wide range of urethane resins with properties similar to various nylon grades
- ⇒ Fast Turnaround: Produce parts in days, not weeks
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Process | Tolerance Capability | Standard Lead Time | Max Part Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Milling | ±0.05mm | 2-3 days | 80" x 40" x 30" | Complex 3D shapes, prototypes, low-volume |
| CNC Turning | ±0.075mm | 3-5 days | Ø300mm x 500mm | Bushings, bearings, round parts |
| CNC EDM | ±0.02mm | 5-7 days | 400mm x 300mm x 200mm | Intricate details, reinforced nylons |
| Injection Molding | ±0.1mm | 2-4 weeks | 500g shot size | High-volume production, complex geometries |
| Urethane Casting | ±0.15mm | 5-10 days | 24" x 24" x 24" | Prototypes, bridge production, flexible parts |
Whether you need precision machining, high-volume molding, or rapid prototyping, our team has the expertise and equipment to manufacture your nylon parts to exact specifications. We combine advanced technology with material expertise to deliver results that meet your most demanding requirements.
See Our Full CNC Capabilities | Request a Free Consultation | Explore Available Nylon Grades
Surface Finishing Options for Nylon Parts
Elevate your machined nylon components with our comprehensive range of surface finishing services. From enhancing appearance and feel to improving functionality and durability, we provide the perfect finish to meet your project requirements and ensure your nylon parts perform flawlessly in their final application.
Aesthetic & Texture Finishes
Improve the look and feel of your nylon parts with finishes that provide visual appeal and tactile quality:
• Tumbling/Vibratory Finishing: Smooths edges, removes burrs, and creates uniform matte surfaces.
• Bead Blasting: Consistent satin finish that eliminates tool marks and provides professional appearance.
• Grinding & Polishing: Creates smooth, glossy surfaces for decorative applications or reduced friction.
• Brushing: Directional satin finish for aesthetic components and visual prototypes.
Protective & Functional Coatings
Enhance performance characteristics with coatings that add durability, chemical resistance, or special properties:
• Powder Coating: Durable, wear-resistant layer with extensive color options and texture choices.
• PA (Polyamide) Coating: Enhanced lubricity and abrasion resistance for moving parts.
• PTFE-Impregnated Coatings: Permanent dry lubricity for reduced friction without maintenance.
• UV-Resistant Coatings: Protection against environmental degradation and color fading.
Specialized Treatments
Advanced processes that modify the nylon surface for specific functional requirements:
• Dyeing & Coloring: Permanent, deep penetration coloring available in standard and custom colors.
• Sealing Treatments: Reduces moisture absorption for dimensional stability in humid environments.
• Anti-Static Coatings: Prevents static electricity buildup for electronic applications.
• Chemical Resistance Treatments: Enhanced protection against oils, solvents, and chemicals.
Printing & Marking
Permanent identification and branding solutions for your nylon components:
• Laser Engraving: Permanent, high-contrast markings for part numbers, logos, and instructions.
• Screen Printing: Multi-color logos and graphics for branding and identification.
• Pad Printing: Detailed artwork and complex designs on curved or irregular surfaces.
• UV Printing: High-resolution graphics with excellent adhesion and durability.
Nylon Surface Finishing Comparison
| Finish Type | Appearance | Functional Benefit | Durability | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tumbling/Vibratory | Uniform matte | Deburring, smooth edges | Good | Gears, bushings, consumer products |
| Bead Blasting | Consistent satin | Hides tool marks, professional look | Good | Prototypes, enclosures, visible components |
| Powder Coating | Glossy/matte colors | Wear resistance, color coding | Excellent | Outdoor equipment, automotive parts |
| PA Coating | Slight gloss | Enhanced lubricity, reduced friction | Excellent | Bearings, sliding parts, moving components |
| Laser Engraving | High-contrast marks | Permanent identification, branding | Permanent | Medical devices, electrical components, logos |
Whether you need functional protection, aesthetic enhancement, or specialized surface properties, our finishing experts will recommend the optimal solution for your nylon components. Every finish is applied with strict quality control to ensure consistent results that meet your specifications and performance requirements.
Nylon CNC Machining Applications by Industry
From prototyping to full-scale production, nylon CNC machining provides durable, lightweight solutions across countless industries. At Clarwe, we've partnered with engineers and designers to create precision components that meet the rigorous demands of these sectors, leveraging nylon's unique properties for optimal performance.
Automotive & Transportation
Nylon's excellent wear resistance and low friction make it ideal for automotive applications where durability and quiet operation are essential. Our components help reduce weight, eliminate lubrication needs, and withstand harsh environments.
• Bushings, bearings, and wear pads for suspension systems
• Gears, sprockets, and timing components
• Electrical connectors and insulation components
• Fuel system components and fluid reservoirs
• Interior trim clips and fasteners
Aerospace & Defense
The exceptional durability and light weight of nylon make it valuable for aerospace applications where performance cannot be compromised. Our components meet stringent requirements for reliability and environmental resistance.
• Cable guides and wire harness components
• Control system bushings and bearings
• Interior panel fasteners and clips
• Vibration dampening components
• Radar and electronic housing components
Medical & Healthcare
Precision and biocompatibility make nylon ideal for medical applications requiring reliability and cleanability. We work with medical-grade nylons and finishes that meet regulatory requirements.
• Surgical instrument handles and components
• Medical device housings and enclosures
• Orthopedic devices and assistive equipment
• Laboratory equipment and sample containers
• Dental device components and fixtures
Electronics & Electrical
Nylon's excellent electrical insulation properties and durability make it perfect for protecting sensitive electronic components while providing structural support in demanding environments.
• Connectors and terminal blocks
• Cable strain reliefs and grommets
• Sensor housings and mounting brackets
• Insulation barriers and circuit board guides
• Enclosure components and access panels
Industrial & Manufacturing
Keep industry moving with durable, reliable nylon components that withstand the rigors of daily operation in demanding environments. From factory automation to material handling, we deliver parts that perform.
• Conveyor system components and guides
• Gear systems and drive components
• Seals, washers, and insulating spacers
• Tooling handles and safety components
• Custom fixtures and jigs
Consumer Products & Robotics
Nylon's versatility, appearance, and mechanical properties make it ideal for consumer-facing products and advanced robotics applications where both form and function matter.
• Drone components and camera mounts
• Robotics joint components and gears
• Sporting equipment and protective gear
• Appliance components and handles
• Toy components and mechanical parts
Industry Applications at a Glance
| Industry | Common Nylon Types | Key Requirements | Typical Components |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Nylon 66, MC901 | Wear resistance, temperature resistance | Bushings, gears, fluid components |
| Aerospace | Nylon 66, Glass-filled | Light weight, durability, flame resistance | Guides, clips, dampening components |
| Medical | Nylon 612, Medical-grade | Biocompatibility, sterilizability, precision | Surgical instruments, device housings |
| Electronics | Nylon 6, Nylon 66 | Electrical insulation, durability | Connectors, insulators, housings |
| Industrial | Cast Nylon, Nylon 6 | Wear resistance, impact strength | Gears, bearings, conveyor components |
No matter your industry or application, our engineering team understands the unique challenges and requirements of your sector. We deliver nylon components that not only meet specifications but exceed expectations for performance, reliability, and quality.
Quality Assurance and Certifications
At Clarwe, quality isn't just a step in our process—it's the foundation of everything we do. Our comprehensive quality management system ensures every nylon part we machine meets the highest standards of precision, reliability, and compliance. From prototype to production, we deliver consistent quality you can trust through our vertically controlled inspection processes and certified manufacturing excellence.
| Certifications & Compliance |
We maintain rigorous certifications that demonstrate our commitment to excellence across industries: ISO 9001:2015 Certified: Quality management system certification for contract manufacturing of custom mechanical components AS9100D Compliant: Aerospace quality management protocols through our vetted partner network ISO 13485 Embedded: Medical device quality management integrated into our workflows USP Class VI/ISO 10993 Compliance: Bio-compatibility certification for medical-grade nylon materials RoHS/REACH Compliance: Environmental and material safety standards adherence |
| Quality Control Processes |
Our multi-stage inspection process ensures every nylon part meets your exact specifications: First Article Inspection (FAIR): AS9102-compliant initial part validation with comprehensive dimensional reporting In-Process Inspection: Real-time statistical process control (SPC) during production runs Final Inspection: 100% dimensional verification before shipment using calibrated equipment Material Verification: Spectroscopy testing and mill certificate validation for every material batch Documentation Package: Complete quality records with every order including COC, FAIR, and material certs |
| Advanced Inspection Equipment |
We invest in cutting-edge metrology equipment to verify nylon part accuracy: Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM): Zeiss CONTURA CMM with ±0.005mm accuracy for complex geometries 3D Optical Scanners: Keyence VR-5000 series for non-contact full-field scans and comparisons Surface Roughness Testers: Quantitative surface finish validation per ISO 1302 standards CT Scanning Equipment: Nikon XT H 225 ST for non-destructive internal defect detection Custom Fixturing: Part-specific inspection setups for complex nylon components |
| Quality Documentation |
We provide comprehensive documentation with every order: • Certificate of Conformity: Material and specification compliance with digital signatures • First Article Inspection Reports: AS9102-compliant with deviation heatmaps and full dimensional data • Material Certifications: Mill test reports with heat/lot traceability and material composition spectroscopy • Statistical Process Control Reports: Real-time production quality data and capability analysis • Process Validation Packages: PPAP Level 1-5 submissions and custom compliance documentation |
| Industry-Specific Compliance |
Our quality systems meet the strict requirements of regulated industries: • Medical: ISO 13485 workflows, bio-compatibility documentation, sterilization validation support • Aerospace: AS9102 FAIR, flight-critical documentation, and traceability requirements • Automotive: PPAP levels 1-5, statistical process capability reporting, and control plans • Consumer Products: RoHS compliance, safety testing documentation, and quality conformance reports |
Quality Capabilities Overview
| Inspection Method | Accuracy Capability | Best For | Industry Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMM Inspection | ±0.005mm | Complex 3D geometries, GD&T validation | Aerospace, medical devices |
| 3D Optical Scanning | ±0.002mm | Full-field deviation analysis, reverse engineering | Automotive, consumer products |
| Surface Roughness Analysis | ±0.001μm | Surface finish validation | Medical, bearing surfaces |
| CT Scanning | ±0.015mm | Internal defects, assembly analysis | Medical implants, complex assemblies |
| Visual Inspection | N/A | Cosmetic defects, surface quality per ASME B46.1 | All industries |
From raw material certification to final inspection, our quality assurance team ensures every nylon part meets your exact requirements. Our vertically controlled inspection process means your parts never leave our controlled environment—eliminating 97% of traceability gaps common in outsourced models. We don't just measure parts—we build trust through consistent excellence and comprehensive documentation that gives you complete confidence in every component we deliver.
Get a Project Review | Contact Our Engineering Team | Request a Callback
Design Guidelines for Nylon CNC Machining
Designing nylon parts for CNC machining requires understanding the unique characteristics of engineering plastics. Follow these expert guidelines to optimize your designs for better performance, easier manufacturing, and lower costs. Our engineering team provides free Design for Manufacturability (DFM) analysis to ensure your nylon parts succeed.
Key Design Considerations
- Wall Thickness: Maintain minimum 1.0mm wall thickness for structural stability
- Internal Corners: Use generous radii (recommended: 0.5-1mm) 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: Account for material movement - specify critical dimensions only
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 Nylon
| Feature Type | Recommended Value | Minimum Value | Design Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Thickness | 2.0mm | 1.0mm | Use ribs or gussets for structural support |
| Internal Corner Radius | 0.5-1mm | 0.3mm | Larger radii reduce stress concentration |
| Hole Diameter | Standard drill sizes | 0.8mm | Depth ≤ 6x diameter for straight holes |
| Thread Size | M4 and larger | M3 | Avoid threading near edges or thin walls |
| Text Engraving | 1.5mm character height | 0.8mm | Use bold fonts with adequate spacing |
| Minimum Feature Size | 1.2mm | 0.8mm | Consider material flexibility for thin features |
Design for Manufacturing Tips
• Account for Moisture: Allow for material expansion/contraction in humid environments
• Avoid Sharp Corners: Use generous fillets and radii to prevent stress cracking
• Consider Orientation: Design with machining orientation in mind to minimize setups
• Minimize Thin Walls: Avoid isolated thin sections that may flex during machining
• Design for Fixturing: Include logical mounting points for secure workholding
• Avoid Deep Pocketing: Use through-cuts instead of deep closed pockets when possible
• Specify Critical Surfaces: Identify which surfaces require best finish quality
Cost-Saving Design Strategies
• Simplify Geometry: Minimize complex features or unnecessary details
• Standardize Features: Use standard sizes for holes, threads, and fasteners
• Reduce Complex Features: Avoid sharp angles or tight tolerances unless necessary
• Optimize Material: Design parts to minimize waste and fit standard stock sizes
• Avoid Special Tools: Design parts that can be machined using standard tooling
• Limit Post-Machining: Minimize the need for secondary operations
• Consider Assembly: Design features that help streamline the assembly process
Design for Assembly Considerations
• Clearance Fits: Provide appropriate clearance for press fits (typically 0.05mm)
• Assembly Tools: Ensure access for tools during assembly
• Location Features: Include alignment holes or pins for easy assembly
• Lubrication-Free: Use Delrin's self-lubricating properties in moving parts
• Wear Distribution: Evenly distribute wear on parts to prolong lifespan
• Thermal Expansion: Account for the different expansion rates in mating parts
If your design doesn’t follow all these guidelines, don’t worry! Our engineers are ready to help optimize your design. Upload your CAD files for a free DFM analysis and get an online quote to bring your nylon parts to life with precision and efficiency.
Why Choose Clarwe for Nylon CNC Machining?
When performance-critical nylon components matter, engineers worldwide trust Clarwe for their most demanding plastic parts. We combine specialized nylon expertise with rigorous quality control to deliver results that generic quoting platforms simply can't match. Here's what sets us apart:
Unmatched Nylon Expertise
➤ 15+ Nylon Varieties Available: From standard Nylon 6 and 66 to glass-filled, oil-filled, and medical-grade formulations
➤ Material Scientists On Staff: Get expert polymer recommendations for your specific application requirements
➤ 2-Hour Quoting: Real engineers review your files and provide comprehensive quotes within hours, not days
➤ Free DFM Analysis: Detailed design feedback optimized for nylon's unique characteristics and behavior
Precision You Can Trust
➤ Tight Tolerances to ±0.025mm: Achievable with our in-house CMM and optical inspection systems
➤ First-Time Quality: 99.3% on-time delivery rate with 100% quality inspection on critical dimensions
➤ ISO 13485 & ISO 9001 Certified: Meeting medical and industrial quality standards
➤ In-House Polymer Lab: Full material verification including moisture content testing and DSC 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 throughout your project—especially crucial for nylon's unique machining characteristics
Clarwe vs The Competition
| Capability | Clarwe | Typical Machine Shops | Online Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Support | Dedicated Polymer Engineer | Limited Plastic Expertise | Automated Only |
| Quality Control | In-House CMM & Optical Inspection | Variable | Partner-Dependent |
| Material Options | 15+ Nylon Varieties | 3-5 Standard Types | Limited Selection |
| Moisture Control | Climate-Controlled Machining | Often Overlooked | Not Guaranteed |
| Design Feedback | Free Nylon-Specific DFM | Often Additional Cost | Generic Suggestions |
| Certifications | ISO 13485, ISO 9001, USP Class VI | 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 nylon-specific pricing➤ Real-Time Project Tracking: Monitor your order with photo updates at every 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 nylon machining expertise➤ Risk-Free Sourcing: We manage quality across our entire partner network
➤ Scalable Production: From 1 prototype to 50,000+ production parts
➤ No Tooling Fees: Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
Join thousands of engineers who have made Clarwe their trusted manufacturing partner for precision nylon components. Experience the difference that engineer-led manufacturing makes—upload your CAD files today for a free, no-obligation quote and detailed DFM analysis tailored to nylon machining.