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CNC Machining eBook

If you want to produce high-quality machined parts with a sleek appearance, it’s essential to consider some critical factors related to CNC machining.

Here, we’ve gathered some basic information and important considerations to help you achieve the desired results.

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HIPS
CNC Machining Service

Get custom HIPS CNC machined parts with fast turnaround times and competitive pricing. Benefit from high-quality HIPS materials and surface finishes, ensuring precise prototypes and production parts.

HIPS in CNC Machining

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is a cost-effective thermoplastic widely accepted for its impact resistance and ease of processing. It is preferred in CNC machining because it can easily be cut, drilled, and shaped, making it ideal for producing detailed and accurate parts. Various industries benefit from HIPS’s durability and excellent machinability, which allows for the creation of intricate designs and functional components.

Price:	$$
Available HIPS at RapidDirect:	HIPS Board White
Lead Time:	About 6 days
Wall Thickness:	Minimum of 0.8 mm
Tolerances:	±0.005″ (±0.125mm)
Max Part Size:	1200 x 500 x 150 mm
Applications:	Aerospace components, medical devices, automotive parts, electronic insulators

Machined HIPS Properties

Ideal for creating robust and durable parts, HIPS offers a balance of performance and affordability. Explore the properties of HIPS that make it a popular choice for CNC machining.

Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa)	Elongation at Break (%)	Hardness (Rockwell R)	Heat Deflection Temperature (°C)	Density g/cm³
22 - 30	40 - 60	95 - 105	90 - 100	1.04 - 1.06

Surface Finishing Options for HIPS

At RapidDirect, we offer expert surface finishing services as part of our online CNC machining services to enhance the appearance and functionality of your HIPS CNC machined parts.

As Machined

This is the natural state of HIPS after machining. It offers a clean finish suitable for functional prototypes or internal parts without the need for additional treatments.

Sand Blasting

Ideal for creating a matte texture on HIPS surfaces. It improves the appearance by reducing surface imperfections, making it suitable for parts requiring a more refined finish.

Tumbling

This process smooths and polishes HIPS parts. It's great for removing sharp edges or burrs, resulting in a more uniform surface finish, especially for components needing aesthetic appeal.

Painting

HIPS can be easily painted to enhance both appearance and protection. This treatment offers various color options and finishes, providing versatility for product design and branding.

Powder Coating

lthough primarily used for metals, powder coating can be applied to HIPS with the right preparation. It creates a durable, colorful finish, improving resistance to wear and environmental factors.

Brushed Finish

Brushing gives a distinct linear texture, adding an aesthetic element to HIPS parts. This technique is often used to achieve a unique, decorative surface finish.

Pros and Cons of
HIPS CNC Machining

HIPS CNC machining offers several advantages, making it a popular choice for various applications. However, it also has some limitations that should be considered.

Pros

Impact Resistance: HIPS is known for its excellent impact resistance, making it suitable for applications requiring durability and toughness.
Machinability: The material’s ease of machining allows for the production of intricate designs and precise parts, enhancing its versatility.
Cost-Effectiveness: HIPS is a cost-efficient material, making it an attractive option for both prototyping and mass production without compromising quality.
Stability: HIPS exhibits good dimensional stability, ensuring consistent performance in various environments.

Cons

Limited Heat Resistance: While HIPS has moderate heat resistance, it may not be suitable for applications involving high temperatures.
Chemical Sensitivity: HIPS can be sensitive to certain chemicals, which may limit its use in environments exposed to harsh substances.
Lower Strength Compared to Other Plastics: Although durable, HIPS has lower tensile strength compared to some engineering plastics, which may restrict its use in high-stress applications.

CNC Machining Resources

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The Ultimate Guide to CNC Machining Processes Comparison

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September 2, 2025

FAQs

Is high impact polystyrene safe?

High impact polystyrene (HIPS) is generally considered safe for a wide range of applications. It is commonly used in food packaging, medical devices, and consumer products due to its non-toxic nature and compliance with safety standards. However, as with any material, it is important to ensure that HIPS is used appropriately and within its recommended application limits.

What is the difference between polystyrene and high impact polystyrene?

The primary difference between polystyrene and high impact polystyrene (HIPS) is their impact resistance. Polystyrene is a brittle thermoplastic that can easily crack or shatter under impact. In contrast, HIPS is a modified version of polystyrene that includes rubber additives. This significantly improves its impact resistance and making it more durable for various applications.

What is the difference between HDPE and HIPS?

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is known for its high strength-to-density ratio, excellent chemical resistance, and low moisture absorption. It is commonly used in applications requiring toughness and resistance to harsh environments. HIPS, on the other hand, offers good impact resistance, ease of machining, and a smooth surface finish.

What is the difference between S grade and H grade polystyrene?

S grade polystyrene, often referred to as standard polystyrene, is a general-purpose material known for its clarity and rigidity but has limited impact resistance. H grade polystyrene, or high impact polystyrene (HIPS), includes rubber additives to enhance its impact resistance and toughness. Thus, it is more suitable for applications requiring durability and resilience.

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NPI Solutions

HIPS CNC Machining Service

HIPS in CNC Machining

Machined HIPS Properties

Surface Finishing Options for HIPS

Pros and Cons of HIPS CNC Machining

Pros

Cons

CNC Machining Resources

Face Milling vs Peripheral Milling: Tools, Differences, and Selection Guide

Understanding the Advantages of 5-Axis CNC Machining

The Ultimate Guide to CNC Machining Processes Comparison

FAQs

HIPS
CNC Machining Service

Pros and Cons of
HIPS CNC Machining