How To Choose Machinable Media at Freeman Mfg. & Supply Co

Machinable Media Selection Guide

Use this guide to follow the history of constructing parts, patterns, tools, and molds from lumber and metal into the synthetic materials we use today, and the criteria to use to select material for your project.

The Process

The prototyping process begins with a design which can then be machined into a part, pattern, tool, or mold for additional testing or use.

Design Stage		Completed Part, Pattern, Tool, or Mold

The Journey to Synthetic Materials

Historically, when constructing parts, only two materials were commonly used. Wood is inexpensive, easily workable, moderately stable and durable, but the presence of grain can create machining issues. Metal is very stable and durable with a superior machined finish, but is much more expensive.

Wood

Metal

Less Expensive

More Expensive

With these choices being so extreme in differences, recently developed synthetic materials have bridged the gap, offering a wider range of materials to choose from.

Rough Lumber

MDF

Perfect Plank

Foam Boards

Machinable Wax

Modeling Boards

Tooling Boards

Phenolic Richlite

Epoxy Boards

Metal

Less Expensive

More Expensive

Material Selection

The product information below should be considered guidelines and not rules. The best material for your application will vary depending on the unique characteristics or criteria of your project, such as:

Detail (simple or complex shape)

Ease of Machining and Cutting

Dimensional Stability (part accuracy)

Durability (abrasion & impact resistance)
Heat Resistance
Quality of Finish