Custom Acetal (POM) CNC Machining Services | XML Precision Hardware Manufacturing

Searching for low-friction, highly rigid, and wear-resistant plastic parts? XML provides top-tier Acetal (POM) CNC machining services. Valued for its excellent dimensional stability, virtually zero moisture absorption, and high fatigue endurance, Acetal is the ultimate engineering plastic for precision gears, bearings, aerospace components, and medical devices. From rapid prototyping to high-volume manufacturing, XML delivers precise, all-around manufacturing solutions. Get a free quote today!

Why Choose Acetal (POM) for CNC Machining?

Acetal, generically known as POM (Polyoxymethylene), is a highly crystalline engineering thermoplastic. Often referred to as a “bridge” between metals and plastics, it offers metal-like stiffness while remaining lightweight and exceptionally easy to machine.

Whether you are designing moving mechanical assemblies or fluid control valves, this material delivers:

Exceptional Low Friction & Wear Resistance: Naturally lubricated, making it the perfect choice for moving parts like gears, sliding mechanisms, and bearings without the need for external lubrication.
Incredible Dimensional Stability: Unlike Nylon, Acetal absorbs almost zero moisture. This means your parts will not swell or change dimensions even in wet or humid environments.
High Strength & Stiffness: Provides excellent structural rigidity, creep resistance, and tensile strength, frequently replacing metals in weight-sensitive engineering.
Outstanding Machinability: Acetal chips beautifully during CNC machining (unlike softer plastics that melt or smear), allowing for incredibly tight tolerances and excellent surface finishes right off the machine.

As your expert manufacturing partner, XML utilizes highly rigid CNC turning and milling centers to cut Acetal with flawless precision and zero internal stress.

Acetal (POM) Technical Specifications & Machining Parameters

Mechanical & Thermal Properties	Metric Value	Imperial Value	Test Standard
Density (Specific Gravity)	1.41 – 1.42 g/cm³	0.051 lbs/in³	ASTM D792
Tensile Strength (Yield)	65 – 70 MPa	9,400 – 10,000 psi	ASTM D638
Flexural Modulus	2.8 – 3.0 GPa	400,000 – 435,000 psi	ASTM D790
Water Absorption (24 hrs)	~ 0.20% (Extremely Low)	0.20%	ASTM D570
Hardness (Rockwell M)	M90 – M94	M90 – M94	ASTM D785
Max Continuous Temp	85°C – 90°C	185°F – 194°F	UL 746B
Coefficient of Friction (Dynamic)	0.20 (Against steel)	0.2	ASTM D3028

Machining Parameters	Technical Specifications
Standard Tolerances	±0.02 mm to ±0.05 mm (Highly precise for a plastic)
Minimum Wall Thickness	≥ 0.8 mm (0.030″)
As-Machined Surface Finish	Ra 0.8 – Ra 1.6 μm (Smooth, glossy finish achieved easily)
Cutting Strategy	High cutting speeds with moderate feeds; exceptional chip evacuation
Tooling Specifics	High positive rake, polished single-flute carbide end mills for shear-cutting
Thermal Management	Air blast or light coolant to prevent localized overheating and warping
Post-Processing	Typically used “as-machined,” though bead blasting can provide a matte finish
Supported Operations	3, 4 & 5-Axis CNC Milling, Precision CNC Turning (Lathe), Swiss Machining for micro-parts

Extensive Industry Applications of Acetal Parts

Aerospace

For interior structural components and fuel systems, Acetal provides the perfect lightweight, low-friction solution. We CNC machine highly stable cabin structural brackets, seat adjustment mechanisms, and electrical insulator housings that withstand constant use without wearing out.

Medical Devices

Because it resists moisture and withstands repeated sterilization, Acetal is ideal for the healthcare sector. We manufacture durable surgical instrument handles, medical inhaler internal components, and precision fluid delivery valves tailored for medical safety.

Robotics & Automation

Industrial automation requires components that move smoothly without constant greasing. We specialize in manufacturing self-lubricating high-precision robotic gears, automated conveyor rollers, and low-friction sliding guideways that keep your assembly lines running silently.

Automotive

Automotive engineers use Acetal to replace heavy metal linkages. We precision-machine wear-resistant custom fuel sender units, lightweight door handle mechanisms, and high-performance suspension bushings that offer tight tolerances and long-lasting durability.