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CNC Plastic Machining VS CNC Metal Machining?

2025-11-20

As a core service of GJ Prototype (www.gj-prototype.com), CNC machining plays a pivotal role in rapid prototyping and small-batch production. When it comes to CNC plastic machining and CNC metal machining, understanding their differences is crucial for choosing the right solution for your project. 

CNC plastic machining focuses on materials like ABS, PC, POM, nylon, and PMMA. These materials are lightweight, have low density, and offer excellent corrosion resistance and electrical insulation. They also feature relatively low hardness, making cutting and shaping easier.


CNC metal machining targets metals such as aluminum alloy, stainless steel, copper, and titanium alloy. Metals boast high strength, rigidity, and thermal stability, but their higher hardness and density require more powerful cutting tools and higher machining forces.


GJ Prototype (www.gj-prototype.com) provides a full range of material options for both processes, ensuring each project uses materials that align with its performance requirements.

Machining Performance & Precision


CNC plastic machining has faster cutting speeds due to lower material hardness. It generates less cutting force and heat, reducing tool wear and machining costs. However, plastics are prone to deformation under heat, so GJ Prototype’s technicians adopt precise temperature control and tool path optimization to maintain dimensional accuracy (typically ±0.01-0.05mm).

CNC metal machining demands higher cutting power and slower speeds to handle hard metals. It produces more heat and tool wear, but achieves exceptional precision (up to ±0.005mm) for high-precision metal components. Metals’ stable physical properties also ensure better consistency in batch machining.


GJ Prototype’s advanced CNC equipment and professional technical team guarantee that both machining methods meet strict precision standards for diverse project needs.


Application Scenarios

CNC plastic machining is ideal for prototypes like plastic casings, electronic device enclosures, medical instrument components, and consumer product parts. It’s also suitable for parts requiring corrosion resistance, electrical insulation, or lightweight design. GJ Prototype often uses this process for rapid prototyping of consumer electronics and medical devices.

CNC metal machining is widely used in aerospace parts, automotive components, industrial machinery parts, and precision hardware. It’s the first choice for parts needing high strength, load-bearing capacity, or resistance to high temperatures and pressures.


Selection Recommendations from GJ Prototype

Choose CNC plastic machining if your project prioritizes lightweight, corrosion resistance, electrical insulation, or cost-effectiveness for small-batch production. Opt for CNC metal machining when high strength, rigidity, thermal stability, or ultra-high precision is required.

GJ Prototype (www.gj-prototype.com) offers one-stop CNC machining services, from material selection and design optimization to finished product inspection. Whether it’s a plastic prototype or a metal component, our team delivers high-quality results efficiently.



 GJ Prototype leverages its professional expertise to match you with the optimal machining solution, ensuring your project achieves the best balance of performance, quality, and cost. For more detailed consultation on CNC machining solutions, visit www.gj-prototype.com to connect with our technical team.


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