The Digital Thread

Introducing recycled materials for CNC machining at Protolabs

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

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.

ABS and polypropylene (PP) are strong contenders for many projects, but what are the differences?

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.

Understand the differences between two terms often confused with one another—jigs and fixtures.

Discover why engineers are selecting 5-axis indexed milling for their parts. This blog looks at the advantages of 5-axis indexed milling.

CNC machining, where precision meets innovation. In this blog we'll explore the macroscopic number of technical terms that shape the landscape of CNC machining, and dismantle them - to gain a true understanding of their meaning.

BioDapt’s prosthetics allow adaptive athletes to continue doing what they love

Slide bearings are a critical component in many engineering applications, they provide a smooth, low-friction surface that allows parts to move back and forth multiple times, with a long service life. This blog covers materials to consider for slide bearings.

When working in the Space industry, post-processing options are often the difference between a good idea and a successful project. Whilst most of your focus will be on primary production methods, this blog outlines how secondary services can greatly impact your final project.

Driving innovation in any industry is difficult, but it’s particularly tricky in the space industry. Parts need to be reliable, withstand increasingly harsh conditions, function for extended periods without maintenance and remain lightweight yet tough enough to withstand the forces of launch and space travel. With these requirements in mind, it's important to select the right manufacturing method.