Definition of Acetal Copolymer (POM-C) ESD
POM-C ESD is an electrostatic-dissipative variant of acetal copolymer, formulated with conductive fillers (carbon fiber, carbon nanotubes, or stainless steel fiber) to control static electricity. It retains POM-C’s core strengths is dimensional stability, low friction, wear resistance, and machinability while adding ESD protection for electronics and explosive-environment applications. Common brand names include Techtron® PPS ESD, Ensinger TECAFORM® AH ESD, and Mitsubishi Iupital® ESD.
Properties of CNC Machined Acetal Copolymer (POM-C) ESD
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Properties | |
| Yield strength | 45 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 40 – 50 % |
| Thermal Properties | |
| Maximum service temperature | 100 – 140 °C |
| Thermal expansion coefficient | 10 – 13 × 10-6/ºC |
| Thermal conductivity | 0.3 W/(m⋅°C) |
| Electrical Properties | |
| Electrical resistivity | 10 μΩ*cm |
| Common Applications | |
| Tool carriers | Housing parts |
| Rollers | |
Why Acetal Copolymer (POM-C) ESD Matters in CNC Workshops
POM-C ESD solves a specific problem, standard POM-C is an excellent insulator that builds static charge, which can damage sensitive electronic components or ignite volatile environments. By adding conductive fillers while preserving acetal’s machinability and mechanical performance, POM-C ESD lets CNC shops produce precision fixtures and components that are simultaneously dimensionally accurate, wear-resistant, and static-safe.
POM-C ESD is the electrostatic-dissipative grade of acetal copolymer a black, carbon-filled engineering plastic that machines on standard CNC equipment and is essential for electronics manufacturing, semiconductor handling, and any environment where uncontrolled static discharge is a risk.
Surface Finishes for CNC Machined Acetal Copolymer (POM-C) ESD
As-Machined
The default finish from CNC machining plastic stock (Delrin, nylon, HDPE, ABS). Visible linear tool path scallop marks across machined surfaces with a matte plastic sheen. No secondary operation suitable for functional components, jigs, fixtures, and internal parts where cosmetic appearance is secondary to dimensional accuracy.
Flame Polished
Quick post-fabrication process that passes a controlled flame over acrylic (PMMA) cut edges, melting the surface micro-layer to produce a crystal-clear, glossy, transparent edge. Fast and cost-effective for acrylic sheet edges produces optical clarity on cut borders without the labor of hand polishing. Ideal for display cases, signage, and acrylic enclosures.
Vapor Polished
Post-fabrication chemical process that exposes transparent plastic parts (acrylic, PC, PETG) to solvent vapor, melting and smoothing the surface micro-layer to dramatically improve optical clarity and gloss. Removes machining lines and produces crystal-clear transparent parts — essential for prototype lenses, light guides, display windows, fluidic chambers, and medical components requiring optical transparency.
Painted
Post-fabrication spray painting in any custom color (matte, satin, gloss, metallic) followed by screen printing or pad printing for logos, labels, buttons, and graphics. Applied over a primed plastic surface for uniform color and adhesion. Allows custom fabricated plastic parts to match production aesthetics widely used for control panels, instrument faces, enclosures, and marketing/showcase components requiring exact brand color and graphic printing.
Sanded
Post-fabrication sanding with progressively finer grit sandpaper (typically 240–600 grit) produces a uniform low-gloss matte non-reflective surface. Hides machining marks, scratches, and surface inconsistencies while providing a soft tactile feel. Used for HDPE, UHMW, and nylon components where a durable, non-glare, fingerprint-resistant matte appearance is desired for industrial and functional parts.
Heat Formed
Thermoforming process that heats plastic sheet (acrylic, polycarbonate, ABS) to its glass transition temperature and bends it over a form tool to create precise angles and curved shapes. Produces clean, smooth bend radii with consistent surface finish no tool marks at the bend. Used for display stands, guards, enclosures, signage, and custom fabricated parts requiring 3D formed shapes from flat sheet stock.
