Plastic parts show up where metal is too heavy, too noisy, too reactive or too slippery to bear. They are cut on the same mills and lathes as metal, but the material behaves differently, and the part keeps changing slightly after it is cut.
At a glance
- We machine plastics at our Reno shop
- Plastic parts for the medical industry
- Metal and plastic chutes for cement and mining
- UHMW, nylon, acetal and PTFE as general materials
- Metal and plastic fabrication from one shop
I have used Wolf Machine several times over the past few years for fabricating and repair of parts on my ultralight aircraft. [...] These guys are great to deal with. I wouldn't take my projects anywhere else.
Engineering plastics, as general education
Engineering plastics are the strong, stable group used for machined parts. The list below is general knowledge from published sources and not a stock list. If your drawing names a material, we work to it.
| Plastic | Known for | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| UHMW polyethylene | Slippery, tough, very wear resistant | Chute liners, wear strips |
| Nylon | Tough, absorbs moisture | Gears, bushings, rollers |
| Acetal | Stiff, stable, low friction | Precision parts, guides |
| PTFE | Very slippery, chemically inert, soft | Seals, insulators |
How plastic behaves under the cutter
Plastic is a poor conductor of heat, so heat builds in the cut and can melt or gum the surface. Sharp tools, good chip clearance and light cuts keep it cool. Clamping has to be gentle, since plastic dents and bends under the pressure that holds a metal part.
Plastic also moves with temperature and absorbs moisture in some types. A size cut in a cold shop can change by the time the part is installed, and long, thin pieces can bow as stress in the stock is released. Say what temperature range the part sees so the plan allows for it.
Plastic in the work we do
We have made plastic parts for the medical industry, and metal and plastic chutes for the cement and mining industries. We also do metal and plastic fabrication.
To start a job, send the drawing or sample, the material if you know it, the quantity and how the part is used. We work from specifications, drawings or samples and can assist with the design. Use the quote request or call (775) 359-5570. See cement and aggregates for chute work.
Sources
- Engineering plastic (overview) (2026-10-18)
