High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) CNC Machining
HIPS is an affordable materials that is easily milled, making it an ideal materials for prototyping.
Product Description
HIPS, a high-impact version of polystyrene (PS), is a low-cost material that is easy to machine and fabricate. It is often specified for low-strength structural applications for which impact resistance, machinability, and low cost are a necessity. Thanks to its dimensional stability, ease of fabrication, and the ability to accept paint and glue, HIPS is often used for machining pre- production prototypes. When you use a translucent white (natural) grade, it is FDA compliant in food processing applications.
Key Benefits of High-Impact Polystyrene
- Easy to paint and glue
- Excellent aesthetics
- Excellent machinability
- FDA compliant
- Good dimensional stability
- Good impact resistance
- Low cost
Applications for High-Impact Polystyrene
- Covers
- Housing
- Low-strength structural components
- Machined prototypes
Properties of High-Impact Polystyrene
| Ultimate Tensile Strength (D638) | Impact Strength (D256) | Heat Deflection (D648) | More Information | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-Impact Polystyrene | > 3.0 KSI | 2.8 ft-lb/in. | 185° F | Data Sheet |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength (D638) | Impact Strength (D256) | Heat Deflection (D648) | More Information | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-Impact Polystyrene | > 30.5 MPa | 149.5 J/m | 85° C | Data Sheet |
Design Guidelines
Ensure that your features allow for easy release of chips to avoid clogging your mills and burning material. Tight radii and sharp corners can cause stress and cracking and should be avoided. Using fillets and smooth transitions will improve your HIPS parts.
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