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The Digital Thread

Your blog feed for manufacturing resources, in-depth features, and industry news.

Latest Posts

mass production
Supply Chain
27/06/2024

The Theory, Advantages and Disadvantages of Just-In-Time Manufacturing

For the manufacture of goods, efficiency is paramount. A process that reaps lean operations and inventory management is just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing. Learn more.
By Protolabs
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injection moulding machines

How to select the best manufacturing process for your Part

Torn between 3D printing, CNC machining and Injection Moulding as a manufacturing process for your product? Learn how to pick the right process at Protolabs
By Protolabs
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Clear ABS resin pellets
Materials Science
13/06/2024

ABS vs. PC: Comparing Two Common Thermoplastics

Choosing to use ABS, polycarbonate (PC), or combining them is a popular way to get strong machined, printed, or moulded parts. There are a lot of similarities, but also some significant differences that might help you find just the right one for your parts.
By Protolabs
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aerospace in flight
Thought leadership
11/06/2024

Aerospace Manufacturing in 2024

In 2024, a joint survey from the Royal Aeronautical Society and Protolabs, revisited a 2023 questionnaire on the top concerns and issues for those in aerospace manufacturing. One year on, what were the fresh findings of this updated industry snapshot?
By Protolabs
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HDPE resin pellets closeup
Materials Science
06/06/2024

Translucent and Clear Plastic Injection-Moulded Parts

Choosing the best translucent material for your moulded parts isn’t always crystal clear. There are quite a few things to think about before making your final choice of materials and design.
By Protolabs
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Nylon vs Delrin for Manufacturing
Materials Science
30/05/2024

Nylon vs. Delrin: Strong, Durable Materials Ideal for High-Wear Applications

These hard, versatile materials are perfect for use in projects that require high resistance to wear, abrasion, and chemicals.
By Protolabs
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Tennis racket with blue background
3D Printing
29/05/2024

A 3D-Printed Tennis Racket Merges Art with Athletics

Partnership between Protolabs and All Design Lab brings metal 3D-printed tennis racket to life
By Protolabs
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scientific moulding
Tech Tips
23/05/2024

How to Design a Part to Ensure a High-Quality Product

Every product designer and engineer dreams of creating parts that are free from defects first time round. In this blog, you'll learn how. Find out more
By Protolabs
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Quality Inspection
Tech Tips
16/05/2024

How to Manufacture Parts with Manufacturing Variations

As with any industry, no matter how meticulous a processes is, it can still be subject to variations, and manufacturing is no different. Learn more.
By Protolabs
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Black and green injection moulded parts
Materials Science
09/05/2024

ABS vs. Polypropylene (PP): Deciding Between Two Popular Plastics

ABS and polypropylene (PP) are strong contenders for many projects, but what are the differences?
By Protolabs
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A pile of white Nylon Resin pellets
Materials Science
02/05/2024

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Glass-Filled Nylon

Making nylon parts stronger isn’t difficult. All it takes is the addition of glass to your base material. Explore the pros and cons of glass-filled nylon.
By Protolabs
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design engineer at a computer

The Foundations of Human-Centric Design in Manufacturing

If we want our product to be useful, fit for purpose, and marketable, we need to consider many factors, starting with its design. Whether you've identified a product need or a market gap, you'll want to ensure your end product is appropriate.
By Protolabs
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