Tolerance Type | Recommended Range/Value | Explanation |
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General Tolerances | ±0.1 mm to ±0.2 mm | Ceramics are brittle; tighter tolerances can lead to cracking. General tolerances ensure manufacturability without compromising material integrity. |
Precision Tolerances | ±0.05 mm to ±0.1 mm | Precision machining ensures tight fits and high-performance parts, essential for aerospace, medical, and automotive applications. |
Min Wall Thickness | 1.5 mm to 2 mm | Thin walls may compromise the structural integrity of ceramics. Ensuring a minimum wall thickness improves durability and strength. |
Min Drill Size | 0.5 mm to 1 mm | Smaller drill sizes may cause material breakage or tool wear. A minimum drill size maintains machining efficiency and material integrity. |
Maximum Part Size | 250 mm to 300 mm | Larger parts may be difficult to machine due to the brittleness of ceramics and limitations in tooling. Keeping parts smaller aids in precision and reduces breakage risks. |
Minimum Part Size | 2 mm to 5 mm | Too small parts can be difficult to handle and may break under machining forces. Minimum size ensures stability during processing. |
Production Volume | Low to Medium (100 to 500 units) | Ceramic machining is time-consuming, making high-volume production challenging. Low to medium volume is more cost-effective for precision ceramics. |
Prototyping | 1-10 units | Prototyping involves producing functional parts with quick iterations to test design and function. Limited quantities make it feasible with ceramics. |
Low Volume | 10-100 units | Low-volume production is ideal for customized ceramic parts, allowing flexibility and cost efficiency without compromising quality. |
High Volume | Not recommended for ceramics | High-volume ceramic machining can be costly due to material waste, machine wear, and tool change requirements. Best for durable, less-brittle materials. |
Lead Time | 1 to 4 weeks | Due to the complexity of ceramic machining and the need for specialized tooling, lead times are generally longer for ceramic parts. |
Surface Finish | Ra 0.2 µm to Ra 1.6 µm | A smoother finish enhances the performance and durability of ceramic parts, especially for applications like seals, bearings, and medical devices. |
Tooling Type | Diamond-coated tools, carbide tools | Diamond tools offer superior cutting efficiency and longevity when machining hard ceramics. Carbide tools are also effective but wear more quickly. |